Europe Tours & Vacations

Three women laughing on a gondola in the canals of Venice, with the gondolier in the background

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 traveler.

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Europe departures by month

Browse by holiday destination, europe travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers 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 travelers 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 traveling 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 traveling 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 cell phone in Europe?

You shouldn't have a problem using your cell phone while traveling 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+ travelers?

Europe is considered a reasonably safe continent for LGBTQIA+ travelers 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 traveling 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 recognize this. 

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling 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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Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Headquarters in Melbourne, Australia

Intrepid Travel Reviews (8,732)

Japan real food adventure.

Intrepid Travel

Georgia Adventure

Madagascar Baobabs & Beyond reviewer 3

Madagascar Baobabs & Beyond

Cambodia: hike, bike & kayak, ultimate galapagos: central islands (grand daphne), beautiful bali (including undisan), essential japan.

Madrid to Marrakech (10 destinations) reviewer 8

Madrid to Marrakech (10 destinations)

New zealand's north island adventure (southbound), bolivia highlights, about intrepid travel.

Intrepid was founded by two friends, Darrell and Geoff, who had a bold idea to build a travel company that benefited both travellers and the communities they visit. Their big idea sprung to mind in 1988, not long after they crammed themselves and some friends into a modified ex-council truck and headed off on a road trip across Africa. More than three decades later, Intrepid is proud to call themselves the world's largest purpose-led adventure travel company.      Today, they have hundreds of immersive trips in over 100 countries on all seven continents to choose from. With locally-based leaders out front of every adventure, they’ll take you beyond the everyday sights and introduce you to the culture without holding your hand at every step of the journey.    Intrepid is determined to change the way we all see the world. They connect people to the heartbeat of adventure and the soul of the planet. 

Why Intrepid

It's simple. Think immersive experiences, a perfectly sized group and a legendary locally-based leader. Plus, their style of travel shows you the world in a way that respects local people and places.      Immersive experiences   Hard-to-forget experiences in hard-to-find places. Everyone loves the highlights, but Intrepid believe the real magic happens well away from the beaten path. It’s the little noodle bars, hidden galleries and backstreet bodegas; the real-life experiences you won’t find in a search engine.      Small groups, big adventures   You can expect to travel with a tight bunch of like-minded adventurers (usually 12 to 16 people). Besides being able to go where larger tours often can’t, their group sizes create the perfect recipe for connection - offering up new perspectives and new friends to share the journey with.    Locally-based leaders   Expect locally-based leaders out front of every trip. Sure, they’ll lead the way, but they’ll also introduce you to the locals, show you the hidden spots that sidestep the crowds, and give you insider tips for the best places to explore in your free time – all with a smile.      Balanced Itineraries   Intrepid adventures strike the right balance between group activities and time to soak up what’s happening around you. There’s a good mix of time spent with your small group, as well as seeing and experiencing the places you travel to.    Responsible travel   Since the very beginning, Intrepid has been about running trips in a way that respects local people and places. They’re B Corp certified which recognises their commitment to using business as a force for good and their non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, supports organisations around the world that are making a positive difference. 

Who travels with Intrepid

Intrepid travellers come from different walks of life and age brackets. Some come in groups, others solo. With Intrepid, it doesn’t matter where you’ve come from or how you got there – it’s about where you’re going. They’ve got small group adventures in a range of styles and themes, each suited to different levels of fitness and thirst for adventure. Introducing  Intrepid Premium : a brand-new style of travel. From 2022, you can travel on this new range of trips that include all the best ingredients of an Intrepid adventure, elevated to a level never before available.

Intrepid Travel Adventures

Essential Morocco

Essential Morocco

  • Stay with a local family in beautiful Moulay Idriss Experience the tastes, sights, and sounds of Fes Ride a camel through the Sahara desert dunes Visit Ait Benhaddou, a traditional mud brick city Taste delicious Moroccan dishes in Marrakesh

Indian Getaway

Indian Getaway

  • Enjoy a sunset on the Ganges Admire the mighty Taj Mahal Get lost in the pink city of Jaipur Barter for rare items at Tordi Garh

Classic Costa Rica

Classic Costa Rica

  • Descend to the Caribbean lowlands to Tortuguero National Park Visit small town La Fortuna and the majestic Arenal Volcano Explore Monteverde National Park on a walking tour Discover exotic wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore Jordan

Explore Jordan

  • Spend the night at Wadi Rum's mystic desert Visit the legendary ancient lost city of Petra Grab that photo of a float in the Dead Sea Delve into culture and camp with the Bedouin people

North India Revealed

North India Revealed

  • Explore Dehli's historical sites and bazaars Ride a camel through the Thar Desert Discover the traditions of tribespeople Enjoy magical views at Savitri Temple

Cycle Vietnam

Cycle Vietnam

  • Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Admire the lush panorama of the Mai Chau valley Take a stroll through fields of rice Discover the wacky architecture of Hang Nga Crazy House

Costa Rica Experience

Costa Rica Experience

  • Visit the most famous volcano - Arenal Wander the markets of San Jose Join a Mangrove tour by kayak Walking tour through the Monteverde National Park

Essential Vietnam

Essential Vietnam

Intrepid travel videos.

intrepid tours

Stone Town to Nairobi

Egypt Experience

Egypt Experience

  • Experience the Land of the Pharaos See the Pyramides up close Sightseeing on a Nile River cruise Visit tombs in the Valley of the Kings

Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure

Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure

Utah Parks Circuit

Utah Parks Circuit

  • Enjoy the incredible Zion National Park Explore the breathtaking Utah landscape Go wild in Vegas Take in the views of Lake Powell

Croatia Sailing Adventure: Split to Dubrovnik

Croatia Sailing Adventure: Split to Dubrovnik

Mainland Greece Discovery

Mainland Greece Discovery

Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos

Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos

  • Enjoy the nightlife of Mykonos Sail the Cyclades Explore the mythology and history of Naxos Soak up the nightlife of Ios

Best of Perth, Margaret River & Rottnest Island

Best of Perth, Margaret River & Rottnest Island

Intrepid travel destinations.

  • Morocco (22)
  • Tanzania (18)
  • South Africa (9)
  • Botswana (5)
  • Vietnam (24)
  • Thailand (22)
  • Indonesia (13)
  • Malaysia (10)
  • Cambodia (10)
  • Jordan (10)
  • Sri Lanka (9)

Australia/Oceania

  • Australia (60)
  • New Zealand (22)
  • Turkey (17)
  • Greece (13)
  • Croatia (11)
  • Iceland (6)
  • Portugal (5)

Latin America

  • Ecuador (27)
  • Costa Rica (5)
  • Argentina (5)

North America

Intrepid travel ships.

Grand Queen Beatriz

Grand Queen Beatriz

Daphne

Intrepid Travel Guides

Zhoomart

Ksana Petrov

Aaron Cooper

Aaron Cooper

Anna Teneggi

Anna Teneggi

Gerhard Swanepoel

Gerhard Swanepoel

Questions & answers, is tipping commonplace in other parts of the world.

Yes, in most places tipping is expected. At your welcome meeting, ask your leader about the local custom and advice on how much is recommended at restaurants or with local guides. At the end of your adventure, you may also choose to tip your Intrepid leader.

What adventures include a kitty and what is it?

The Kitty system is operated on some adventures like the Overland and Basix. The kitty is a cash contribution to a central fund and overseen by the travellers and crew. It helps fund accommodation, camp meals or activities for the entire group. Contribution to the kitty is compulsory on some adventures while voluntary on others. Please check for the up-to-date amount 48 hours prior to your trip commencement.

Will the coach be modern and comfortable?

It depends on where you are travelling and on what style of adventure. On a Basix adventure in Asia, expect a local bus with no air-conditioning. On a Comfort or Original adventure in South America, there will be reclining seats and sometimes even refreshments offered.

What type of ground transportation is used?

Intrepid uses as much local transport as possible, which means travelling on everything from a camel to a train, minivan or bus.

Will I be able to charge my electrical appliances?

In most places you’ll be able to recharge your appliances at the hotel. On their Overland adventures, most of the vehicles we use come with their own power supply and you should be able to recharge onboard.

Will I get internet coverage?

It depends on the destination. Some places have Wi-Fi hot spots everywhere and other places will have limited or no coverage at all.

Will my mobile work?

Many of the destinations are out of the way and there maybe limited coverage so Intrepid cannot guarantee your phone will work as desired. Contact your phone provider before you leave about global roaming and the costs involved, and get their advice on the coverage you’ll receive in the places you’re travelling in.

How can friends and family get in contact while on tour?

Family and friends can contact Intrepid directly if they are unable to contact you in an emergency through email or phone. There is also a list of emergency contact details in the Trip Notes (for your destination).

What are the available communication facilities?

Many hotels and public places have Wi-Fi so it’s usually possible to keep in touch with home every couple of days. In remote places (think Mali, Serengeti or the Sahara) or on treks or homestays, you will not be able to communicate as readily.

What standards of hotels should I expect?

The hotel standards depends on the Adventure Style you have chosen. Basic accommodation is generally budget (1-2 star), while Original is budget or tourist class (2-3 star). On a Comfort adventure, you can expect tourist class (3-4 star).

Are hotels air-conditioned/ heated?

When you are headed to a hot climate, it is likely that you will either have a fan or air-conditioner and if you are staying in remote areas or at homestays, you will need to expect the facilities to be a little more basic.

Is it possible to ask for the list of hotels we will be staying at?

Intrepid only provides information on your joining and finish point hotels. They can’t give you a full hotel list before you travel since they have a few hotels in each city that they can alternate the groups between, and due to operational requirements may change last minute. At the welcome meeting on Day 1, your leader can provide you with this so you can email friends and family back home with the details.

Will I need a sleeping bag/mat/tent?

On some adventures sleeping mats are provided, like their Africa and USA trips but you will need to bring your own sleeping bag. In Australia tents, blankets, linen and towels are provided so there is no need for a sleeping bag.

What are the facilities at the campsites?

Intrepid have a wide range of camping sites which vary depending on the region in which your are travelling. Most camps will have the basic facilities as a minimum and others will have more modern facilities.

Will I be able to do any laundry?

There are usually chances to do laundry, either through your hotel or using local services. Your leader will be able to let you know your options once you are on the adventure.

Are western toilets available on the adventures?

It depends on the areas you’re travelling in. Some adventures have regular access to western toilets while others don't.

What happens if I arrive late and miss part of the adventure?

Please let us know in advance that you will be arriving late so that the tour leader can leave information with the hotel reception for where to meet your group. However, if you plan to arrive a day or two into the itinerary (and our group has moved to a different destination), it will be your responsibility to ‘catch up’ with the group and Intrepid will provide you with the most up-to-date information as to where your group will be and at approximately what time. Intrepid cannot reimburse you for any portion of the trip unused, but this can often be claimed on your travel insurance.

Do I get any free time?

Yes, Intrepid lets you explore at your own pace. When you get to a destination, your leader will offer options on what you can do. You may choose to spend time with others in the group if you like or simply relax in your new surroundings.

How difficult is the trek on Intrepid's adventures?

Intrepid has treks ranging from relatively easy to extremely difficult. The easiest way to determine if a trek is right for you is to check the ‘physical rating’ of the adventure. If the rating is 1-3, it is manageable for those with a moderate level of fitness; those trips rated 4-5 will require a fit participant who has been training in the lead up to their adventure.

What is the name of the hotel where my adventure starts?

While this information is not always available due to operational reasons, please get in touch and we will try to assist you as much as possible.

Are airport transfers included in the adventure price?

Airport transfers are not usually included in the adventure price. The cost of the transfer will generally be more expensive than a taxi. This is because you are paying for a private service and a trusted driver will offer the security to travellers when they arrive into a foreign country.

Is it possible to request an early check-in?

We can’t help confirm an early hotel check-in. If you do not wish to pay for the extra night, you can try direct at the hotel (they may let you in early if the room is free) or you can usually store your luggage after enquiring with reception.

What is the check in time?

Check-in times varies depending on hotels and region. Generally, they are between midday and 2pm.

How does Intrepid support sustainable travel and protect the environment?

Intrepid works to make their business as responsible and sustainable as possible, from their head office through to their adventures run in mutliple countries around the world.

Can I opt out of certain activities if I want to?

Yes, if you don't want to participate in certain activites but please note that if you choose to opt out of an included activity, no reimbursement can be made by Intrepid.

Is it possible to book and pay optional activities now or during the adventure?

Optional activities are booked and paid for on the ground on some cases. There are a couple of exceptions to this: Rio Carnival extras, balloon safaris in Africa and Urban Adventures. These will all need to be booked prior to departure to secure the activity.

What are optional activities? Where can I find details on optional activities?

You will be given details of optional activities by your group leader once you arrive at your destination. You’ll also find more options available throughout the adventure, which your leader will advise you of at the time. Please contact us to request a copy of the Trip Notes for more details on available optional activities.

Is drinking the water in the countries I visit advisable?

In some destinations drinking the local water is not advisable, so drinking bottled water is recommended.

What will the food be like on my adventure?

Included meals are usually a great mix of familiar staples, local specialities and regional dishes. You also have the option to head out and discover local restaurants, food stalls and markets for meals not included as part of the adventure- your guide can always give you some good suggestions.

I have special dietary requirements – will they be catered for?

Intrepid will try to accommodate all dietary requirements but in some places it can be very difficult to guarantee. It is also advisable to bring a card with your dietary requirements written in the local language for those times you are eating away from the group.

Is it possible to book a single room?

Yes, you can: however, throughout your Intrepid adventure, rooming is generally organised on a twin-share basis. Some adventures do have a single supplement available for an extra cost.

Is it possible to book a triple room?

Intrepid adventures are organised on a twin, triple or multishare basis. Since the bookings are made well in advance, individual room requests can’t be guaranteed. Get in touch with us and we can find out for you.

Is there a single supplement for a solo traveller?

As a single traveller, you will usually have the choice of either paying a single supplement or sharing with someone of the same gender. The single supplement is not compulsory if you are happy to share.

Is a solo traveller allowed on the adventure?

Yes! Many of Intrepid's travellers join because they are travelling solo and want to meet and share experiences with other people.

Can I add an extra night on the beginning or end of my group adventure, either before or during the adventure?

You sure can. Feel free to contact us and we can asisst you with that.

Can I make any changes to the itinerary to the adventure?

Due to the nature of a group adventure, Intrepid is unable to change the itinerary for individual travellers.

Can I deviate from the adventure?

Yes, you can opt to sign off the adventure if you need to leave a day or so earlier. Please inform us before travel that you’ll be arriving late or need to leave before the adventure ends so that we can notify Intrepid's team on the ground to best accommodate your requirements.

Who is the group leader for the adventure?

Intrepid can’t provide the names of a group leader prior to departure, as this often changes due to operational requirements. Rest assured your group leader will be highly experienced, knowledgeable and passioante for the region you are travelling in.

How many people accommodated on each adventure?

Most of their adventures have a group of 12-16 people, though their group sizes are on average 10 people. Intrepid's Overland adventures are in purpose-built vehicles that can carry up to 24 travellers.

What are the types of people that travel with Intrepid?

Intrepid offers solo and group adventures and the age requirement ranges from 18 or 70 years old. Intrepid travellers are couples, friends, backpackers and solo adventurers keen to explore the world and have some incredible experiences along the way!

Are adventures physically demanding?

To determine what type of adventure suits you best, each of their trips comes with a Physical Rating to let you know how physically demanding it is… or isn’t. Please see the trip summary next to the tour map for details of the physical rating.

Are there age restrictions on your adventures?

For the majority of our trips the minimum age is 15. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 18. Our Overland Adventures have a minimum age of 18. Younger children are allowed on our Family adventures and Short Break Adventures, but check each trip for its minimum age, which is located on the trip’s overview page on the website. Most of our adventures don’t have a maximum age limit, but a Self-Assessment Form is required for all passengers 70 years and over.

Does the hotels/ hostels have internet or WIFI?

Communication facilities are always improving globally. Many hotels and public places have Wi-Fi so it’s usually possible to keep in touch with home every couple of days, if you so desire. In remote places (think Mali, Serengeti or the Sahara) or on treks or homestays, you will not be able to communicate as readily. Your leader will usually give you the heads up before you leave a place so you can send a quick email or two.

Contact our Travel Experts

Contact our Travel Experts

+1 844 311 8331

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Our team of experienced adventure specialists have travelled to hundreds of countries around the globe and have decades of first-hand travel experience to share. Contact us now to have all of your tour-related questions answered!

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