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The Best Free Walking Tours In Europe [21 Tours]

Do you think travel to Europe has to be expensive? Think again, there are so many free things to do throughout this continent which don’t have to break the budget. Something I love doing when I arrive somewhere new is to look if there are any free walking tours. They’re a great introduction to a city as they give you plenty of insider secrets, local stories and history. Sometimes even a few discount coupons at the end.

While I have done a few free walking tours on my current European trip, I wanted to open up this post to other travel bloggers. In this post, you can find the  best free walking tours in Europe . Make sure you reference this list before your next European city break.

Make sure you are prepared for your European adventure with the  right backpack  and that you  know what to pack .

Disclaimer:   Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Click here to read my  disclosure statement .

• 1.1 FREEDAM TOURS
• 2.1 SANDEMANS BERLIN
• 3.1 BRATISLAVA FREE WALKING TOUR
• 4.1 LEGENDS OF BRUGES FREE WALKING TOUR
• 5.1 BUCHAREST WALKABOUT FREE TOURS
• 6.1 WALKING TOUR CORK
• 7.1 LA BUSSOLA FREE WALKING TOUR
• 8.1 THE MODERN KYIV TOUR
• 9.1.1 DON’T MISS OUT ON A TOUR TO AUSCHWITZ OR THE SALT MINES DURING YOUR VISIT
• 10.1 CHILL OUT FREE WALKING TOUR
• 10.2 LISBON STREET ART TOUR
• 10.3 SANDEMANS NEW LISBON FREE TOUR
• 11.1 LONDON LANDMARKS WEST BY STRAWBERRY TOURS
• 11.2 DOPE ART TOURS
• 12.1 FREE WALKING TOUR MINSK
• 13.1 MOSCOW FREE WALKING TOUR
• 14.1 OLD TOWN WALKING TOUR
• 15.1 CITY WALKING TOUR
• 16.1 FEEL THE CITY MONUMENTS TOUR
• 17.1 VIENNA FREE WALKING TOUR
• 18.1 COMMUNIST WARSAW FREE WALKING TOUR

FREEDAM TOURS

FreeDam Tours provides a two-and-a-half-hour-long free walking tour in Amsterdam. What sets this tour apart is the tour guides mastered the art of “educational storytelling”. You learn history and culture through their hilarious stories. And no topic is off the table – with conversations on the Red Light district, World War II and drug policies. The tour guide also shares information on the unique architecture,  renowned museums  and popular bicycle culture. At the end of the tour, the guide gives you a complimentary postcard. The unique design makes for a great souvenir!

You will learn how the tolerant and free culture of the past influenced the modern-day progressive lifestyle in the Dutch capital. You will also leave the tour not wanting to bike in the city – the guides share some alarming collision statistics. And finally, you will learn why most buildings have a large hook on the exterior!  

There are five tours each day, starting in front of the Old Church in the Red Light District. They leave at 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Look for the tour guide holding a yellow umbrella.

Like most free walking tours, it’s important to tip the guide at the end of the tour. Also, ask the guide for recommendations on other things to do and see. My guide recommended a day trip to Zaanse Schans – it was one of the highlights of my time there! To start planning your trip, check out Anchored Adventure Blog’s  Amsterdam travel guide .

Don’t miss the famous Heineken Brewery Tour – make sure to book ahead

SANDEMANS BERLIN

We enjoy day tours, but oddly enough we had never been on a walking tour until our trip to Berlin. Our hostel encouraged us to sign up for a  Free Sandemans Walking Tour . It seemed like a budget-friendly way to see Berlin and we enjoy walking, so we were in!

Tours are available every day and the first thing we noticed was how well organised it was. Everyone meets in front of Starbucks at the Brandenburg Gate, and although it seemed like chaos to us, we were quickly organised into groups.

A great thing about free walking tours is that the guides really have to work to earn their money. Our guide was a real history whizz with seemingly limitless knowledge. I really liked how she kept us entertained, not with inane jokes, but with interesting stories from the past.

This is a great tour to learn about the city’s incredible history. It visits many famous landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, parts of the Berlin Wall and the cheesy Check Point Charlie!

The tour takes three hours and is a fabulous introduction to Berlin and a great way to orientate yourself to the city.

BRATISLAVA FREE WALKING TOUR

Visiting  Bratislava in one day  requires taking one of their free walking tours. Run by a Slovakian who walks you through how this 25-year-old country managed to carve its own identity.

The 2.5 to 3-hour tour that starts at 11 am or 3 pm gives a thorough overview of Bratislava’s past and its architecture. They highlight details of the Velvet Revolution which led to the transition of power away from the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia to a Parliamentary republic. The tour even highlights how this Slavic nation is often mistaken as Slovenia. Meetups are done once a month to exchange wrongly addressed mail. It doesn’t help when their flags are so similar as well.

The tour is engaging and even highlights the unique Blue Church and other interesting finds on St. Michael’s street, for instance, the narrowest house in Europe is found here which is next to a kebab shop. If there’s any better way of getting to know the city, especially the city’s weirdly sights like the UFO tower building, it is best to know via a free walking tour. You meet people from other countries and also interact with the guide to probe further about what makes Bratislava unique. Tipping is encouraged and most people tip between 3 to 10 Euros.

LEGENDS OF BRUGES FREE WALKING TOUR

Bruges  (also known as Brugge) in Belgium captivated us at every turn. The free Legends of Bruges walking tour is a perfect activity for your first day of sightseeing. 

We got to try the tour with founder, Simon – a native of Bruges and self-proclaimed historian – in his third month of business. Due to his popularity, the company’s offerings have since expanded with multiple times and languages offered all week long. 

While pointing out important landmarks around town, Simon explained the  history of Bruges  in story form. We could picture each turn of events as if it were before our eyes. From the rise and fall of the city’s economy to the hidden symbolism in a statue; we learned many intriguing things about Bruges that we never would have known otherwise. We also got to sample chocolates, beer and received discounts at several places around town (we also took advantage of the waffle cart and bike rental discounts later on).

Check the  Legends of Bruges website  for start times. Then look for the guide with a red umbrella next to the statue in the main square. The walk is about two hours long and you can tip the guide at the end as you see fit.

Why not add on a food tour of Bruges. Yummo!

BUCHAREST WALKABOUT FREE TOURS

Bucharest Walkabout Free Tours has three options for free walking tours. ‘The Story of Bucharest Romania’, ‘The Royal Century’ and ‘The Communist Tour’. When I visited Bucharest, I opted for the Story of Bucharest as this is the general all-rounder one. The tour starts at 10:30 am and 3:00 pm daily and meets at the Bucharest clock in Piata Unirii Park.

We had one guide meet us for a group of around 40 people! I was surprised how many people were here considering it was winter. Even though there were 40 of us, our guide was able to keep us together nicely and there was never a time when I couldn’t hear what he was saying.

The guide was a local and knew every inch of his city, there was never a question he couldn’t answer. What I found the most fascinating was learning about the Communist past. (The Communist Tour wasn’t an option when I was there, otherwise, I would have done that one too). We learnt about Vlad the Impaler (Dracula) and wandered past old churches and one of the oldest trading posts in Europe.

This tour is a great introduction to the city and covers the main sites and basic history. Make sure you read my  guide on Bucharest  for more things to do in the city.

WALKING TOUR CORK

Being one of Europe’s oldest cities, Cork’s medieval past remains one of the top reasons why the city is among the top destinations in Ireland. Being the second-largest city in the country and located strategically,  Cork  is also a good base when visiting Ireland. 

Our Walking Tour Cork is one of the free walking tour companies that offer a stroll through the history of Cork City. The tour is only 90 minutes which is a good length of time to not get bored or tired.

The tour starts in Daunt’s Square. From there, the tour commences toward the backstreets and ancient sites in the city. The walking tour also covers the English Market, St. Finbarr Cathedral, Berwick Fountain, the ancient remains of the forge on Gate cinema site from the 1300s, the Drawbridge, the Golden Castle and the Exchange Building. 

Aside from taking in the sights, you’ll also enjoy the history of the city starting with St. Finbarr, the Patron Saint of the city who settled in Cork as early as 607 AD, the arrival of the Vikings and the Anglo-Normans. 

We enjoyed getting a piece of history from the local guide Neasa who is very knowledgeable and fun. To join the walking tour, go to Daunt’s Square at 11 in the morning every Monday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Or better yet, send them an  email  to verify their schedule. Also, even though it’s a free walking tour, please consider leaving a good tip. 

LA BUSSOLA FREE WALKING TOUR

If you are in  Florence  you should register for a free walking tour – it is fun, informative … and free. Costs in Florence can explode easily and buying skip-the-line-tickets can be costly. So a free walking tour to learn about the rich history of the city is a great idea.

There are several tours offered – at different times and with different routes and topics. There are also several operators offering tours. If you go with La Bussola, tours run at 10 am, 10:30 am and one at 3 pm. The one in the morning covers the lesser-known areas – Santa Trinita Bridge, Vasarian Corridor, but also the famous Pitti Palace, Ponte Vecchio,  Uffizi , Piazza Della Signoria,  Palazzo Vecchio . I did this one and learned about the David Statue by Michelangelo and what is represented. The one in the picture is a replica you will find at the Piazza Della Signoria.

If you are lucky, you will have Elizabeta as your guide. A funny person who tells about Florence´s history in a fun way. I am sure, that reading about some aspects myself – like the Varisan Corridor – would not have been as much as fun. She also shared tips on where to eat on a budget and other insider travel tips. As the tours are quite long, about 2.5 hours, you will have a 20-minute break so you can walk around by yourself near the Pitti Palace.

THE MODERN KYIV TOUR

I arrived in Kiev, Ukraine with embarrassingly little knowledge of the Ukrainian capital and no particular plans for my time in the city.  After all, I had primarily viewed Kiev as a stopping point on my way to my two-day tour of the Chernobyl Nuclear Exclusion Zone.  However, I quickly realized that Kiev had a lot to offer, and I decided to get my bearings by joining one of the free walking tours offered by Kiev Free Tours.  Since they offer several free tours every day, I was able to find one on my first afternoon in the city: the Modern Kyiv Tour.

All of Kiev Free Tours’ walking tours start at Maidan Nezalezhnosti, also known as Independence Square.  I was quite happy to join the 4:00 pm  Modern Kyiv Tour , as Kiev can be quite hot in the summer and the tours scheduled at noon involved a lot of walking in the hot sun.  This late afternoon walking tour took us through some of the newer parts of central Kiev, beginning with a stroll along Khreschatyk Street towards the Friendship Arch, and then up a small hill into Khreshchatyy Park, where we had beautiful views of the city and river below.  We then continued past some of the city’s most important government buildings, while our guide explained more about Ukraine’s history and current political situation.  It was fascinating to hear a local perspective about issues and events that, as foreigners, we had only read about in the news.    

JEWISH KRAKOW FREE WALKING TOUR

The Jewish Krakow free walking tour provides a fascinating insight into how Jewish history impacted culture in Poland. The tour takes you through the history of the Jews and the old Jewish Quarter in Krakow- Kazimierz. It illustrates the dramatic changes which occurred during WW2 and the Holocaust (though is not directly focussed on it), then journeys through Communist Poland when the quarter became crime-ridden. The tour ends in the present with Kazimierz today being one of the most hipster neighbourhoods in the city.

The Jewish Krakow tour runs daily: March – October: 10:30 am, 2 pm & 5 pm November – February: 10:30 am & 1:30 pm

It meets outside the Old Synagogue on Szeroka 24 Street (the guide will have a yellow umbrella). During the tour, you’ll get some great tips on less-touristy restaurants, bars and vintage/unique shops in Krakow. Additionally, most of the guides live in the neighbourhood so are a fountain of knowledge and tips. A highlight of the tour was the best place in Poland to try Zapiekanka (an open baguette sandwich with an unlimited combination of toppings). It’s a late-night snack hot-spot for locals and tourists alike. Also, you get to see some filming sites from the movie Schindler’s List (if you’re into that…).

Every guide in Poland must be licenced by a national board to lead tours – including free walking tours – and the licencing exam is only in Polish. Therefore, 99.9% of the guides in Poland are locals with incredible insider tips and knowledge!

DON’T MISS OUT ON A TOUR TO AUSCHWITZ OR THE SALT MINES DURING YOUR VISIT

Chill out free walking tour.

If you are looking to learn more about the history and culture of  Lisbon , the  Chill Out Free Walking Tour  is an absolute must. What I loved about this tour is that it is run by locals who are very passionate about the city, and that is easily seen in the care they put into leading it. I can honestly say that this was one of the best walking tours (free or otherwise) that I’ve taken anywhere.

Your tour guide takes you from the Baixa-Chiado neighbourhood through the winding streets of the Alfama district and everything in between! You’ll learn about the history of the city, including the impact of the great earthquake and the experiences of both Arab and Jewish peoples in the city. Our guide gave us AMAZING recommendations for things to see and eat in the city and even extended the time of the tour to address specific requests from the travel group.

In terms of logistics, this tour meets daily at both 10:00 AM and either 3:00 or 4:30 PM, depending on the season. The meeting point is at the Praça Luís de Camões right in the heart of the city. The tour is offered in both English and Spanish and will take place even if only one person shows up or if it is a rainy day.

LISBON STREET ART TOUR

You don’t have to spend much time in Lisbon to know that it’s got a thriving and creative street art scene with some incredible pieces. This underground culture is the fascinating subject of a free walking tour of the city. You meet your guide in one of the quieter, more boho suburbs and she takes you on an eclectic whirl past murals the size of buildings and small political pieces that pack a real punch.

I’d recommend this tour because it tells you so much about life in Portugal today and pop culture – and the art really is great. Our guide had even taken time to meet some of the street artists and enter their world, so she was able to share the hidden meaning behind some of the more obscure pieces.

It runs weekly and lasts for around two hours (allow extra time, you might get absorbed!). Tips are welcome at the end, but even if you are a backpacker who can’t afford to tip, you’re still welcome to come along. 

SANDEMANS NEW LISBON FREE TOUR

I’ve been on many free tours, and the Sandemans free tour of Lisbon, Portugal was one of the best and most memorable to date. I had already been living in Lisbon for a few months when I joined the tour, and even then I still learned so much from the tour guide and had a lot of fun in the process.

The tour starts at Largo de Camões and finishes at Praça do Comércio, stopping at many of Lisbon’s top sights along the way. It’s offered in both English and Spanish up to four times a day, at 10 am, 11 am, 2 pm and 4 pm. Our guide was not only a local and very knowledgeable about his own city; he was also a very good storyteller. His recounting of key moments in Lisbon’s history, such as the Great Earthquake of 1755 and the Carnation Revolution of 1974, gave me chills. 

After the tour, he gave us recommendations on some of the  best restaurants in Lisbon  and patiently stuck around to answer all our questions. While it’s called a free tour, it’s important to remember that the guides do depend on tips to make a living, so be sure to tip generously!

End the day with a pub crawl through the city’s coolest bars

LONDON LANDMARKS WEST BY STRAWBERRY TOURS

There are many free walking tours in London that it can be hard to narrow down which one to do. Regardless of the length of your stay, the  London Landmarks West by Strawberry Tours  should be a top priority. It showcases many of the main London highlights that tourists come to the city to see: Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. Plus it includes other notable locations like 10 Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, St. James Palace and many more.

The free walking tour takes place daily at 10:00 am, with an additional tour at 11:00 am Friday through Sunday. It departs from Leicester Square and is three hours long. The tour ends at a traditional English pub where participants get special pricing on a burger and pint of beer.

Having done several free walking tours by Strawberry Tours in London, I found that the guides are extremely knowledgeable, engaging and humorous. The quality of the tours is not sacrificed even though it is free! Just be sure to tip the tour guide based on your experience and what you can afford. For additional budget-savvy tips on visiting London, see the One Savvy Wanderer  London on a Budget  post!

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DOPE ART TOURS

There are so many ways to get to know a city. Some people do it through food, others by the nightlife. However, my favourite way to fall in love with somewhere is through its street art. Getting to know a city the size of London takes time. You could literally wander for days and not see the same street twice! Finding large murals can be hit or miss. Fortunately, Dope Art Tours already know the best places to find them!

My experience with Dope Art Tours  was truly mind-blowing. I took their tour expecting to see some cool, creative paintings, learn a little about spray paint and maybe see a Banksy (which we did!). But what really made this tour special was the depth of knowledge that our guides had. Not only did we see and learn about the amazing pieces London has to offer, but the tour changed the way I look at graffiti and street tags. I gained a new appreciation for and understanding of what those who choose to paint the walls by night feel the need to show and say. It was almost profound!

If you want to have your perceptions broadened and appreciation of a city’s culture taken to another level, then this is the tour for you. The company runs two tours and a graffiti workshop, and both the Shoreditch and Brixton excursions (I did both!) can be arranged by contacting them through the  Dope Art Tours Facebook Page .

FREE WALKING TOUR MINSK

Minsk, Belarus may not be a popular destination for backpackers, but it certainly has so many interesting facts and rich history. The Free Walking Tour Minsk does a great job in showcasing some of the city’s highlights, and our guide Alex was funny and very knowledgeable about his city.

The Free Walking Tour Minsk is offered everyday at 4pm. It starts off at the Svabody Square – in front of the bronze statue of Voigt, a man holding a big key and paper in front of the City Hall. The tour lasts about two to three hours, and you will be able to visit some of Minsk’s popular and important spots: Minsk City Hall, Island of Tears, Opera House, Lee Harvey Oswald House, and Victory Square.

Just like other cities typical free walking tours, there is no fee associated with joining in. However, a USD 10-20 tip is recommended. Read more of the  Is Free Walking Tour Ethical?  to learn more about the etiquette of joining Free Walking Tours all around the world.

MOSCOW FREE WALKING TOUR

Moscow is the capital city of Russia with 13.2 million inhabitants. There are so many things to see and do in Moscow. If you are on a budget, join a  free walking tour  to get acquainted before exploring the city yourself!

Moscow Free Tour is a local tour company and it has been receiving some good reviews on various travel websites including TripAdvisor. The company offers a couple of classic guided tours and the free walking tour covers the three must-see attractions in the centre of Moscow, the  Red Square  (Lenin’s mausoleum), the  Saint Basil’s Cathedral , and GUM.

The tour starts at 10:45 am daily at Varvarka Street; The tour is conducted in English and the professional guides share their knowledge of history and culture about Moscow. They then move along the street towards Red Square. There, we learned a little bit more about the fun facts of the buildings and landmarks in the area. One thing that I remembered is that “Red” in Red Square has nothing to do with the bricks, nor communism. It simply means “beautiful”.

The tour then carries on in Red Square and finishes right outside the Alexander Garden of the Kremlin after a short break in GUM. The tour guide gave us a recommendation about where to find cheap but authentic Russian dishes in GUM!

OLD TOWN WALKING TOUR

Old Town Prague is a charming maze of cobblestone streets lined with small restaurants, cafes and shops. Most of these small businesses are housed in historic buildings, many with fascinating stories about the former inhabitants. It’s definitely worth the time to take a free walking tour of this part of town and learn about its thousand years of history.

Michal, our guide from Free Walking Tour Prague, met us at the Powder Tower and led an informative tour for two and a half hours. We strolled through the streets learning about the founding of the city, the 250-year rule of the Hapsburg Dynasty, the types of architecture seen throughout Old Town, and much more. We viewed several of the top sights in Old Town including  St. Nicholas Church,  the Astronomical Clock, and the house of the Black Madonna. I took this walking tour on the first day of my visit, and as a result, had a better appreciation for the city during the rest of my time.

Tours in English are offered five times a week starting at 10:30 a.m. The tours end at the Charles Bridge which is an ideal location to grab lunch or continuing exploring the city. To complete your understanding of the city, consider taking the free tours of the New Town and Charles Bridge.

CITY WALKING TOUR

Sometimes the best way to find out about a city is on a walking tour. They are normally run by a local and they have all that special insider info that you can sometimes miss on a large tour. One place we did not expect to be doing one was in a freezing cold Reykjavik in January!

The Reykjavik City Walking Tour was one of the best things we did in Iceland. We met Eric our guide behind the Parliament building with a largish group of about 25 people. With the high cost of Iceland, a walking tour is a great way to see some sites and save money.

The walk was easy and there were plenty of stops along the way. Our girls found the walk fine and were not bored as we wandered the streets. Eric was hilarious going through Iceland’s history. The whole group loved how he could explain things in a humorous way. We got to see the tree of the year (now that is an experience you cannot miss) and the prison that has hardly anyone in it.

You must go online and secure your spot if you want to go on this tour as places are numbered. I can tell you, you don’t want to miss it!

FEEL THE CITY MONUMENTS TOUR

Seville is a city with a lot of incredible sites and an equally interesting history.  There are a number of different free walking tours available and they were definitely among the best tours we’ve done.  We actually did two different tours, the Monuments tour described below and the Flamenco tour. This tour takes you around the city through the eye of the history of Flamenco and ends at a traditional flamenco show.  If you’re looking for something unique, this could be it.

A perfect  introduction to Seville  is to take the popular monuments free walking tour.  There are a number of companies offering a version of this but we chose to book with Feel The City Tours after some research.  This company uses guides who have studied (or are studying) art and history so they are passionate and knowledgeable.  And it shows!   While you could grab a map and wander the city to see all the major monuments; there is so much history in Seville that it is well worth having a guide to explain everything.  Our tour also gave us some great tips for places to eat, how to skip some long lines and the most important things to do if time is limited.

The tour leaves every day at 10:30 am from Puerto Jerez. It takes you past the Giralda, Cathedral, Alcazar, Plaza de Toros among other significant sites.  Three hours later it ends in Plaza de España.

VIENNA FREE WALKING TOUR

The historic centre of Vienna, Austria is well-suited to walking tours, with a great many famous landmarks within proximity to each other. Fortunately, there are many free Vienna walking tours to choose from. Ours were included in our Big Bus tickets. We met our certified tour guide in front of the Vienna Opera. Before even walking one foot we heard the first interesting fact about the Opera’s design and architect (you’ll have to do the tour to find out for yourself).

Our free walking tour of Vienna continued to pass some well-known and some lesser-known sites. These included the Albertina, the stables of the  Spanish Riding School , the Imperial Palace, and even Demel, the pastry shop/café where the famous Sachertorte was first served. Our guide was great in highlighting fascinating facts that you won’t find in your ordinary guide book. Even my 11-year old son enjoyed the tour, which shows that it can easily be included in a list of  things to do in Vienna with kids .

The free walking tour of Vienna ended in front of St Stephen’s Cathedral. The given duration is 90 minutes, but ours took closer to 2 hours, which we didn’t mind at all.

Various companies besides Big Bus offer free walking tours in Vienna. Of course, there is an expectation to “pay” for it in the form of a tip after the tour, based on how much you valued it. If you don’t enjoy it, you don’t have to pay a cent (or so they say).

COMMUNIST WARSAW FREE WALKING TOUR

If you love learning, Warsaw is a perfect destination for you. We lived in the capital of Poland for a semester during a semester abroad, and learnt more than we can list, both inside the University and outside in the city. In the end, we completely  fell in love with Warsaw , and we believe you will too.

While living there, we travelled extensively to neighbouring countries, but our priority was also to explore Warsaw and learn as much as we could about the city. We were glad to see that there are plenty of Free Walking Tours in Warsaw, and all are incredibly informative. If we have to recommend just one, we’ll go with the  Communist Warsaw  tour because it shows you parts of the city that many tourists see, but don’t fully understand. The guides take you around the most important symbols of this time in Polish history, while sharing interesting tales and legends of life in Warsaw during the decades of Communist rule. You may not think of Communist architecture as the most beautiful, but after this tour, you’ll understand how remarkable it can be.

From November to March, the Communist Warsaw Tour happens every Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday at 2 PM. From April to October, you can not only do it on these days but also on Monday at the same time. The meeting point is Plac Grzybowski 3/5. Look for the guide with a yellow umbrella.

My name is Erin, the lady behind Curiously Erin. After more than 10 years of travelling and working abroad, I wanted to create a platform where I could share my stories and travels. My goal is to help you live the life you desire and inspire you to travel more.

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Spend Hours Walking Around the World's Great Neighborhoods with These Addictive YouTube Channels

Narration-free virtual walking tours are racking up millions of views as they scratch our travel itch in isolation.

By Jason Cochran

September 29, 2020

By now, many of us have started to have travel daydreams. What we wouldn't give just to unwrap a tiny bar of hotel soap, to drag a piece a luggage over cobblestones, or to tell the flight attendant no, we don't want coffee right now, thanks.

We have just the YouTube channel for you. Watched Walker films leisurely strolls through the world's great streets.

That's it. Watching the channel's high-definition virtual walking tours, which have garnered view counts into the millions, you head down streets with a steadied camera, exploring whole neighborhoods on foot. 

As you gently go, you hear the sounds of conversation and commerce in passing. Sometimes, you amble through famous markets . Other times, you might be taken to explore London's legendary  Selfridge's department store for half an hour (see below).

A year ago, we might have shrugged at the concept. This year, we're fighting the urge to leave these videos running all day, like a radio.

And we could: Watched Walker has well over a hundred choices, most of them between 20 minutes and an hour long. There's no goofy host, usually no narration—just the sweet zen of you-are-there exploration.

Watched Walker posts new videos on Monday and Thursday. Right now, the host is marooned in his home city (like most of us), so there's a lot of London being shown. Fortunately, that's a destination rich with video opportunities. (Get ready for coverage of holiday decoration season—last year's  Oxford Street at Christmas walk has racked up nearly 1.5 million views so far.)

Spend an hour and change lazily strolling around London's West End and Covent Garden on a rainy Saturday night:

Lots of other European destinations have been captured by the account's cameras, too, including Paris , Barcelona , Madrid , the beaches in the South of France , and even the  trams of Lisbon .

Virtual walking videos evoke the sights and sounds of travel, so they can scratch the travel itch for some of us. Fortunately, these videos now make up a bit of a subgenre on YouTube.

Similar long-form wandering videos are posted by the channels Rambalac (lots of Japan),  Wind Walk (which leans toward the western U.S. and east Asia),  ActionKid  (who posts a lot of Taiwan and New York City , but with narration), and  Wanna Walk (strong on Latin America and South America), among others.

"Walking around" videos are almost like being there—and they're whetting our excitement for the trips we're going to take in the future. They remind us of the way we explore on a real vacation, but without the blisters.

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21 best walking holidays in Europe

Wondering where to wander in europe our expert picks the best trails, from gentle amalfi coast hikes to wild trekking in eastern iceland.

I t’s the sheer variety that characterises walks in Europe. At one end of the continent, those who venture to Iceland can cross belching lava fields and black-sand beaches; over in Corfu, meanwhile, there are golden shores and vine-covered hillsides. In between are mountain ranges, lakes, lavender fields and beaver-filled bogs.

The continent also majors in legendary and well-maintained long-distance trails — the Tour du Mont Blanc, the Lycian Way, plus perhaps the world’s most famous footpath of all, the Camino de Santiago, which pilgrims have followed to northwestern Spain for over a millennium. All are best done with a tour operator, one who’ll arrange transport, transfer your bags (so you need only carry a day pack), provide helpful gradings and research the most restful, charismatic hotels. Led by expert guides and shown the key sights, you’ll just have to bring your legs on these 21 walking holidays in Europe — and maybe a camera chip or three.

Main photo: a walker at Gelidonya Lighthouse on the Lycian Way in Turkey (Getty Images)

Video: The Times’ Adrian Phillips takes an escorted tour in Tenerife with G Adventures

Times Travel has partnered with Tourhub to bring our readers a wide selection of escorted tours from trusted travel partners. Here, we’ve selected the very best European walking tours. For a bigger selection, visit Tourhub .

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1. La Gomera, Canary Islands

Set out on foot to explore the Canary Island that time forgot. This is a volcanic land shaped by cloud forests, folk legends and ancient hiking paths. Though in sight of the far busier package holiday hotspots of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, it is another world altogether. Garajonay National Park introduces this living museum at close quarters, with fairytale woodlands and volcanic barbs that rise above the ravines and highland plateaux like gigantic clenched fists. Ascend to the summit of Garajonay, the highest point on the island, or follow the island’s network of sinewy footpaths and historic mule trails.

• Which is the best Canary Island? • Best villas in the Canary Islands

2. Accursed Mountains, Albania

Hungry for challenging walks? Forget trying to clamber to the highest point of Mont Blanc like everyone else and try the Accursed Mountains. The range crosses northern Albania and touches on Montenegro and Kosovo, and the walking routes here pass through a mountain range of national parks, steep valleys where glacial-blue rivers tumble, isolated but welcoming villages and dense, dark-green forests alive with unique flora and fauna. It’s an invigorating adventure that can be experienced on guided walking holidays in one of Europe’s last hidden places.

• Best things to do in Albania

3. Tuscany, Italy

The green, rolling hills of Tuscany are dotted with medieval red-tiled villages that have seen invaders come and go, but continue to slumber secure in a sense of their own permanence. This is a pleasant land for that memorable walking holiday that mixes in history, flora and fauna, and food and wine. There are plenty of guided easy walks that will place you in the heart of one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

• Best things to do in Tuscany • Best luxury villas in Tuscany

4. The Corfu Trail, Greece

Snaking across 136 miles, the Corfu Trail presents whitewashed monasteries, golden-sand beaches, juniper forests and vine-swathed hills — in other words, the real Corfu . Amalgamating shorter north and south options, Explore’s guided 15-day tour follows its zig-zagging route north from Kavos and factors in two rest days. Graded as moderate to challenging, it features stays in simple, soulful hotels; most breakfasts and some taverna dinners are included, as are transfers around the Greek island. Choose between dates in spring and autumn.

5. The Amalfi coast, Italy

The cluster of celebrities who yacht into the Amalfi coast might make it forbidding if you’re not an A-lister. Don’t despair, rise above it: walking routes criss-cross the hillsides with heart-stopping views over the sun-splintered waters, and in the distance the bejewelled isle of Capri shimmers. Elsewhere, walking routes pass through chestnut woods, scented lemon groves and vineyards. And as you continue on your guided walking holiday, you’re never far from the sea, its many moods glistening in the sun.

• Best things to do on the Amalfi Coast • Best hotels on the Amalfi coast

6. Mont Blanc, Switzerland and Italy

Snow-capped peaks, glaciers, green-watered lakes and pretty meadows abound on this one-week circuit from Chamonix, completing most of the Tour du Mont Blanc footpath. Staying in accommodation from historic hotels to remote lodges, you’ll dip into Switzerland and Italy . The altitudes and demanding walking mean four to six weeks’ training is recommended, but luggage transfers reduce the strain and a qualified International Mountain Leader will always be with you. All meals are provided and most departures are in July or August.

7. Provence, France

In France ’s best walking destination, purple lavender fields segue into rolling hills and ancient forests as hilltowns serve vintage Provençal food. Available in May or October, Riviera Travel’s easy, seven-night trip introduces you to all of that, plus the Roman-built Pont du Gard aqueduct, and has walks themed on works by Cézanne and Van Gogh. You’ll even visit the Camargue wetlands, where white wild horses roam. Breakfasts, transfers and flights or Eurostar tickets are included and the four-star spa hotel has a pool.

8. Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania

Introducing a trio of Europe’s more under-the-radar spots and running regularly throughout summer, this adventurous but easy Baltic-bound tour pairs national parks with elegant medieval capitals. After learning to bog walk in special shoes while looking for beavers, you’ll inspect 13th-century castles in the “ Latvian Switzerland” before walking through pine forests and past giant sand dunes on a 60-mile sandbar. Mid-range hotels provide breakfast each day, and transfers are provided.

Available for a wider window (April to November) than most European walking jaunts, this five-night break introduces walkers to the White Island — but still includes free time for beach-going or clubbing if desired. Based in Santa Eulària des Riu, at a simple hotel below its bright white church complex, you’ll stride along Ibiza ’s northerly coastline to Moscarter lighthouse and through lush southeastern forests past the mysterious island of Es Vedra. Each day’s breakfasts and transfers are covered — and you’ll need to be fit.

10. The Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Based on the far-flung Isle of Harris — reached via a scenic coach journey and two ferries — this Scotland sojourn is designed for the older walker. Expect frequent fine vistas while looping around Scalpay and its lighthouse, rambling along Luskentyre beach’s three miles of sublime sand or goggling the prehistoric Calanais Standing Stones. The four-night tour departs early in April and October, running on a full-board basis.

11. The Camino de Santiago, Spain

You could spend a lifetime on walking tours in Spain . The national park of the Guadarrama mountain range has diverse flora and fauna amid stern-faced outcrops of rock and shaded gatherings of still pines. For easy strolls, try southern Spain and the Alpujarras, where guided walks amble along interlinking mountain paths, above which eagles soar, into hospitable sun-bleached white villages whose olive groves come together as if in conclave. But, the ultimate in Spanish walking trails can be found on the ancient paths of the Camino de Santiago that weave along the coastline.

• Best walking holidays in Spain

12. The Italian lakes

During a guided walk around Lake Maggiore, you’ll discover magnificent gardens and ruined castles; a boat trip then introduces Isola Bella’s baroque palace. Medieval villages give way to grand villas beside glam Lake Como; a minaret tower unexpectedly lines Lake Orta. Also featuring a scenic journey to Switzerland’s pyramidal Matterhorn mountain, this one-week tour provides breakfast and dinner in four-star hotels. Flights, transport and all excursions are also included; most dates are in May, September and October.

13. The Lycian Way, Turkey

Bronze Age mule tracks and footpaths form Turkey’s long-distance Lycian Way trail. Spend a week hiking the seaside sections of it, stopping en route to admire ancient tombs, Oludeniz’s “Blue Lagoon” and the 11-mile sandy beach at Patara. Moderate fitness is required for some extensive tramps; staying in basic but comfy hotels plus an authentic homestay, the tour provides five breakfasts and all transfers. Suitable for all ages, the tour operates from April to November.

14. Eastern Iceland

In good shape? Leave Iceland ’s west to the tourists and spend six days trekking its far wilder east. This is a place of deranged fjords and jaw-dropping waterfalls; along the way you’ll look for elves in Dimmidalur (the Dark Valley), descend to jet-black beaches and traverse lava fields past steaming, belching mud pools. All meals, including home-cooked guesthouse dinners and lunch in local fish restaurants, are covered, as is transport. Travel from late May to September’s first week.

15. The Lake District, UK

From challenging walks at the Old Man of Coniston to easy strolls taking in the grassy moors and views of Lakeland Fells at Tarn Hows, the stunning Lake District has walking routes to suit all abilities. Whichever path you choose, expect breathtaking scenery, cool and clear lakes and ample wildlife. Avid hikers will enjoy the walk to the top of Helvellyn. It’s 950m tall, so make sure you wear appropriate walking gear and take plenty of breaks as you ascend. Another great route for a sunny day is in the north of the region at Blencathra — also known as Saddleback. The mountain has six peaks with the highest being Hallsfell Top at 868m. The three-to-four hour walk from Thirlmere to Blea Tarn is a harder route but the beautiful surroundings make it worthwhile. If you need to quench your thirst after all the walking, there are pubs along the various walking routes — try Grasmere and Patterdale for the biggest selection.

lakedistrict.gov.uk

• Best walking holidays in the UK • Best dog-friendly hotels in the Lake District

Ideal for anyone hale and hearty, this gentle, seven-night break focuses on eastern Sicily ’s rangy landscapes. Days will be spent rambling along densely vegetated Nebrodi National Park paths, pausing at Pantalica’s gorge-set necropolis or climbing pumice-strewn flanks of ever-active Mount Etna. There’s time too for a visit to the Aeolian Islands and for the giant Greek theatres in Syracuse and Taormina. All transfers and B&B in a family-run hotel near the beach are part of the price; trips run in May, September and October.

explore.co.uk

17. Germany

When Germans crave waldeinsamkeit , the feeling of being at one with nature, they go to the Black Forest in the country’s southwest. This is a land of enchanting meadows, fairytale villages and picnic basket lunches in Red Riding Hood forests. Medieval Triberg is home to a trail through the evergreens to the Triberg Waterfalls, the highest cascade in Germany , while the long-distance West, Central and East Trails are fast-tracks to the rejuvenating joys of these astonishing forest lands. There are an overwhelming 15,000 miles of waymarked walking paths here. As an added calorie-burning bonus, they’re the perfect tonic for guilt-free portions of Black Forest gateau, available in every village.

schwarzwald-tourismus.info

Got your Fjallraven outdoor gear ready? Then it’s off to Sweden ’s Baltic Coast for the High Coast Trail overlooking the Gulf of Bothnia for one of Scandinavia’s landmark trails. This is where you’ll find the world’s highest coastline — peaking at 286m — and the 80-mile south-to-north route delivers a succession of forest paths overlooking rocky shores, shingle beaches and ancient seabeds. Start in Hornoberget overlooking the High Coast Bridge, linger in Skuleskogen National Park, and finish with fika (Sweden’s ubiquitous coffee and cake) in Ornskoldsvik.

hogakusten.com/en

19. Austria

Stunning Austria has hills and mountain ranges alive with the promise of both easy and challenging walking holidays. A guided walking tour high in the Alps perhaps, where the air is as clear as the voices of the Vienna Boys’ Choir? Or a walking route alongside the restless Danube as it tumbles and flows through the Wachau Valley? Don’t forget the Tyrol, dotted with picture-book villages, magnificent mountain ranges and deep wooded valleys, either.

austria.info/en

The landscape of Greece pulsates with history and mythology, making a walking holiday feel like you’re following in the footsteps of gods and monsters. The centaurs, for instance, inhabited the unspoilt Zagori region, near Albania. Spend a holiday on challenging walks through a rugged mountainous land, where monasteries perch on rocks and tavernas in ancient villages offer an easy welcome. How about island-hopping on guided walking holidays, passing venerable olive groves and taking easy walks along mountain paths with the wine-dark waters of the Aegean or the Mediterranean below?

visitgreece.gr

21. Portugal

There is much more to Portugal than Lisbon and Porto, as guided walking holidays will show. Is that the howl of a lonely wolf as you cut through the ruggedly beautiful landscape of the Peneda-Geres National Park in the north? Meanwhile, briny sea breezes accompany easy walks in the Algarve that avoid the beach worshippers and, in the southern Alentejo region, guided walks reveal cork trees and olive groves standing like sentinels amid Insta-perfect images of castles and hilltop villages.

visitportugal.com/en

• Best holiday villas in Portugal • Best tours of Portugal: trips from Lisbon to the Algarve

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Europe Walking Tours & Trips

Find a walking tour that explores Europe. There are 124 adventures to choose from, that range in length from 3 days up to 37 days. The most popular month for these tours is September, which has the most tour departures.

124 walking tours in Europe with 1,279 reviews

• Walking Adventure
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

European Inspiration (Start London, 27 To 35, 19 Days)

Rianna was absolutely amazing. She was super professional and fun and as a solo traveller made me feel super comfortable and involved. She made the whole experience excellent and definitely a trip I will never forget. Thank you so much Riri,Didier and Contiki for the amazing adventure

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

European Inspiration (Start Amsterdam, 27 To 35, 19 Days)

My guide was Ri and she was so fantastic!!! She looked after everyone, was a great organiser and made the trip so enjoyable. I had the best trip of my life and everything we did was amazing

• In-depth Cultural

Historic Baltic Republics

I chose this tour because I wanted to see much more of the Baltic countries than just a day or 2 in the capital cities, and this one was the sort I was looking for. It was a wonderful group of fellow travelers. The tour guide, Dziugas, was great; very knowledgeable about all aspects of the 3 countries, provided interesting commentary, and was laid back and flexible with us.

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

Best of Turkey (14 destinations)

Get Social: Central Europe Highlights

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of Croatia and Slovenia (11 Days)

Fantastic tour from beginning to end! Our Tour Director, Hannah, was awesome! She was fun, very knowledgeable about all the areas we visited and went out of her way to add special things to our itinerary that made the trip extra memorable. Highly recommend this tour (beautiful countries!) and Trafalgar!

Tutta Italia With Beautiful Campania and Sicily

Play & Pause: Southeastern Europe Highlights

Romantic European (Small Groups, Start Amsterdam, End Paris, 19 Days)

Romantic European (Classic, Start Amsterdam, End London, 19 Days)

Best of Poland (11 Days)

Everything was outstanding. Coach, Kate (tour guide), all other guides (except one), hotels, meals, itineraries, driver, sights, tours. Two issues. Our Auschwitz tour guide had a very, very pronounced accent and spoke very quickly making it difficult to understand him. Extremely knowledgeable but needs to slow down his speech. Loved that every tour guide throughout the country was a "local". The other issue was that the optional tours available were charged in Euros and not Polish money. Other than those "minor issues" the tour was truly outstanding, interesting, educational and fun!

Walking in the Azores

Overall good itinerary and opportunity to see quite a lot from Azores. I would however prefer if more hikes were included in base package. Otherwise it was a bit of a mess and not so clear alternatives (and information materials on them seem to be a bit outdated). In any case, e.g. in Horta there is not much to see on our own, so would be nice to include a couple of hikes and highlights already in base package. Other than that very thoughtful logistics with 5 islands in 2 weeks. The first hotel in Ponta Delgada is a bit basic - no pool, basic breakfast, but the others were good. I think reservations for group dinners are good every now and then, but it should be as an option and better to be asked first whether people actually want them instead of presenting it a a big favour and literally making feel ashame if you don't go or cancel too late. You don't want to be pressured in time and sometimes it is more interesting to explore smaller places on your own rather attending a group dinner with preset menu lasting for 2-3 hours. Maybe it was miscommunication from the guide though. Overall Tania was very caring and tried to do her best, her organizational skills are very good. However, communication should be more clear, it was not transparent where exactly we go, what are the alternatives and how much do they cost (a table with all the options, required time and approximate cost can be even prepared in advance and included in information materials - we had 3 sets of materials, sometimes contradicting to each other). Also we would like more clear and timely information on what to expect of the hikes (hard or medium are very subjective words, one would like to know what is the soil, what are the views etc). Tania was eager to listen and adjust, but it was still hard to follow, especially when asking a question, she was not really answering it but telling something else.

Cote d Azur, Burgundy, Alsace and Black Forest

London to Edinburgh Small Group Tour (with Rail Return) - 10 Days

Great Britain Small Group Tour - 12 days

Europe walking tour reviews.

Ri was the best tour guide ever! Always had such positive energy and tried to make sure we all had a wonderful time.

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Spectacular landscapes, old-world villages and local hosts await you on our Europe walking tours. Enjoy forays on foot as you cruise from Prague to Budapest . Take in the power of nature in Iceland or the Alps . Island-hop along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast . Backroads has been hosting walking vacations in Europe for decades. With options ranging from easygoing walks to adventures for avid hikers, we offer something for everyone. Enjoy luxurious hotels and incredible local cuisine on our thoughtfully designed Europe walking tours.

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NEW Couples, Friends & Solos

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Costa Brava to Spanish Pyrenees Walking & Hiking Tour

Croatia & Slovenia Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Ljubljana & Lake Bled to the Adriatic Sea

Croatia Multi-Adventure Tour

Croatia Ocean Cruise Multi-Adventure Tour

Croatia to Montenegro Multi-Adventure Tour

Croatia Walking & Hiking Tour

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Discovering the Heart of Europe from Prague to Vienna

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Czech Republic & Austria Walking & Hiking Tour

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Rick Steves Gave Me a Personal Tour of Paris — Here’s How You Can Get One, Too

This informative guided tour of Paris might just be Rick Steves Europe's best-kept secret.

Kelsey Fowler

As someone who doesn’t mind spending time alone on vacations, I find some of my favorite travel memories include walking around a city or exploring a museum on my own. On a recent trip to Paris, I wanted to experience the history and atmosphere more than the last time I had set foot in the City of Light, when I was focused on checking off the “must see” tourist attractions.

So, driven by the mindset of traversing the city more as a traveler and not a tourist this time around, I decided that, rather than hiring an expensive personal guide, or hopping along on a packed group walking tour, I would turn to one of the most trusted guides in European travel: Rick Steves . Steves is a renowned travel writer, synonymous with European travel and his philosophy of embracing local culture while abroad. The Rick Steves guidebooks are hugely popular — in fact, I picked up the pocket version of the Rick Steves Paris book specifically for this trip.

While I couldn’t book Steves to guide me personally through Paris, I did have the next-best-thing : his audio tour. As I set out to explore the Left Bank, I had the convenience — and added company — of hearing Steves directly in my ear as I started my walk. Great audio guides allow the listener to explore cities at their own pace without needing to map out an itinerary in advance. Simply download the audio tour, head to the first landmark, and hit play.

Steves spent a lot of his 2022 travels talking to himself, carefully noting updates and changes for his 60 self-guided audio tours. In April 2023, Rick Steves Europe republished updated versions of these tours , with guides in Athens, London, Salzburg, Paris, and more. The walking tours are excerpted from Rick Steves guidebooks, and the free Rick Steves Audio Europe app includes bonus features like a companion map, tips, and the full script of each tour.

I opted for the Historic Paris Walk audio tour , as it covered a lot of the neighborhood near my hotel . The tour is advertised as a three-mile journey, and Steves recommends two hours for walking, and another two hours if you choose to go inside the sights.

Zachary Scott/New York Times Magazine/Courtesy of Rick Steves' Europe

Starting out at Notre-Dame de Paris, I was instantly immersed in the story of Paris that Steves tells, building on the history of the city and religion that led to the construction of the cathedral. Even though the Gothic landmark is still undergoing repairs from the 2019 fire, I was able to listen to a good portion of the tour anyway, as Steves hits on a lot of the history and architecture on the outside.

One of the great things about the audio tour is each chapter of the narration has a separate title and picture, making it easy to navigate forward or backward in the audio to find the right location. Walking through the center of the city, I enjoyed having Steves as a companion, bringing me from spot to spot with enough insight to keep even my jet-lagged self interested. His style of narration is friendly and informative. 

The tour also includes verbalized step-by-step directions, so, if you have a good sense of direction, you can easily follow the turns and head to the next landmark or street without missing a beat. (I did have to pause once or twice to look around and make sure I was headed in the right direction.) But it’s easiest to follow the tour in the order Steves has laid out, as I completed almost a full loop around Île de la Cité, from Notre-Dame, to Pont Neuf, the Left Bank, the Latin Quarter, and Place Saint-Michel.

Of course, when I got to the famous bookstore Shakespeare and Company , I had to pause the guide to go inside. And that wasn't the only time I deviated from the tour: when I reached Sainte-Chapelle, I decided to skip that section as well. Because of Notre-Dame’s closing, this nearby church is even more popular now, and the line was too long for me to wait that day. In the updated tour found in the Rick Steves Audio Europe app, Steves does point out this is the one place to get an advance ticket for.

But as I walked through Paris, it truly felt like I had a personal guide with me. I didn’t feel like a tourist at all — I never had to pull out a map or a guidebook, and it made me appreciate walking through the city while learning its history.

The next day, I went to the Musée d’Orsay , one of Paris’s most popular museums, perhaps best-known for its extensive Impressionist collection with works by Van Gogh and Monet, among many others. Here, I pulled out my pocket-sized Rick Steves Paris guidebook (and quietly read it aloud to a friend as we walked the vibrant maze of Manets and Picassos). Steves also has an audio tour of the museum, and others, like the Louvre, if you’re more inclined to listen rather than read. 

If you — like me — are not an art student, but still want to appreciate these masterful works, Steves’s guides are helpful in pointing out which works are important to stop at, and what to look for once you’re there. I loved hearing more about the art world throughout history in Paris, and Steves is able to compare and contrast differing styles and movement, and build on that knowledge as you progress in time throughout the museum.

The Steves guides allowed me to explore landmarks and places I wouldn’t have otherwise known about, and get a great understanding of the city without any language barrier. Plus, self-guided tours offer flexibility and independence, while still offering a rewarding and informative experience. 

The Rick Steves audio guides are all completely free. Interested travelers can install the Rick Steves Audio Europe app to download the latest versions of the tours.

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Europe Walking Tours & Vacations

• Walking & trekking
• Europe Walking Tours & Holidays

Step into your next European adventure. Literally 

You might have explored the ancient town of Pompeii, but have you ascended Mount Vesuvius with a specialist volcanology guide? Perhaps you’ve skied in Chamonix but never had the time to embark on one of Europe’s most iconic and beautiful long-distance treks, the Tour du Mont Blanc? Or maybe you’ve wandered the ancient streets of Sarajevo but never thought to hike into Bosnia’s most remote village? Our walking tours in Europe allow you to experience this fascinating continent in an entirely different way – feet first. 

Our Europe walking tours & vacations

Walk the camino de santiago, 7 days from 1360.

Over seven days, join a local leader and small group of likeminded travellers to walk...

Portuguese Camino

10 days from 2271.

Be challenged and be fulfilled on this coastal Camino, starting in Porto and walking...

Amalfi Coast: Hike & Kayak

8 days from 2605.

Soak up the spectacular scenery of Italy’s Amalfi Coast on this trip through Naples,...

Hiking in the Dolomites

8 days from 2925.

Explore the Dolomites on an 8-day small group hiking tour which explores multiple lakes...

Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc

8 days from 3888.

Spend eight unforgettable days hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, setting off on a circuit...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Walk the highlights of the Lycian Way

8 days from 1920.

Take eight days to explore the Lycian Way on a walking adventure that encompasses...

Walk Hadrian's Wall Highlights

7 days from 1594.

Explore the Roman remains, ruins and castles along UNESCO-listed Hadrian’s Wall in...

Camino del Norte hike

11 days from 2032.

Trek from Ribadeo to Santiago Cathedral along the Camino de Santiago’s Northern Way,...

Cinque Terre: Hike, Bike & Kayak

8 days from 2136.

Take an active adventure to experience the gorgeous Cinque Terre area in Italy in the...

Mont Blanc Highlights

8 days from 2618.

Join an International Mountain Leader on an 8-day hiking adventure in the Alps,...

Hiking the Balkans: Via Dinarica

10 days from 2936.

Get your heart racing on this hiking trip that highlights some of the most incredible...

Hike the Rota Vicentina in Portugal

8 days from 1943.

Step off the beaten track in Portugal’s southwest, following an ancient fisherman’s...

Classic Walks of Scotland

6 days from 1566.

Explore Scotland on two legs and conquer Ben Nevis, the United Kingdom’s highest peak,...

The great walks of Europe

Wander the Amalfi Coast

It’s no secret that Italy’s Amalfi Coast is one of the prettiest places on earth, but few rarely make the decision to experience more than its pebbled beaches and dine on its Aperol spritz-fueled lunches. Yet this scenic coastline promises unforgettable views from the extraordinary ‘Path of the Gods’ along the Sentiero degli Dei to the mysterious Valley of the Mills. Simply lace up your hiking boots, put one foot in front of the other, and think about the big bowl of spaghetti waiting for you at the end of a day spent in the great Italian outdoors. 

Great walks of Europe don’t get any more iconic than the Tour du Mont Blanc, a scenic hiking trail that discovers the staggeringly tall peaks, sparkling lakes, and luscious green fields of the European Alps. Begin your  multi-day trek  in the charming French town of Chamonix - fueling up with a feast of cheese fondue before you go – and treat your senses to an adventure like no other. From an experienced and highly qualified mountain guide to luggage that’s transferred between accommodations, this is trekking in its easiest form. 

Walk along the Camino de Santiago

While relaxing in the coastal town of Porto makes for a great holiday, sometimes you want to take a trip that means a little  more . Challenge yourself in a way you never have on a route few have traversed before on a  pilgrimage along the Portuguese Camino.  Stop in at ancient churches set in storybook towns, wander idyllic landscapes, and retrace the ‘Way of Saint James’ on a journey that promises to change (you in the best way). 

Take in the landscapes of the Lycian Way

You'd be forgiven for thinking Lycia in  Turkey  is straight out of the pages of a fairytale from the dramatic cliffs rising out of the Mediterranean Sea down to cities you’ve likely read about in history books – think Olympos and Sidyma. But the  Lycian Way  is something else entirely. A path once used by the ancient Greeks and Romans, this seven-day adventure discovers crumbling ruins, unearths centuries of stories, and promises epic views. 

Marvel at the Dolomites in northeastern Italy

The Dolomites might not automatically come to mind when you think of the most popular destinations in  Italy  but once you set your sights on this mountainous region’s rugged beauty and spectacular scenery, you’ll instantly understand why it’s beloved by avid hikers around the world. From snow-capped peaks and emerald green lakes that’ll etch themselves into your memory to a comfy home base in Dobbiaco to return to each night, this  trekking adventure  will be one for the highlight reel. 

Trek the spectacular Rota Vicentina

What Portugal’s  Rota Vincentina  walking route lacks in icon status, it makes up for in mind-boggling beauty with unforgettable landscapes that’ll leave a lasting impression in your mind (and on your phone’s camera roll). Passing through the sun-drenched regions of Algarve and Alentejo and meandering along a coastal path that’ll take you by sand dunes and across jagged cliffs high above the Atlantic Ocean, this once-in-a-lifetime journey showcases the very best of Portugal’s natural charm.  

Europe walking tour reviews

Europe walking faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join a europe walking 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.

Learn more about Intrepid’s COVID-19 policy

What are the types of walking & hiking holidays?

We predominantly provide two styles of walking & trekking holidays: 

Center-based – this style of holiday spends all (or majority) of time in the center of the action. Think Chamonix in the French Alps, Dobbiaco in the Dolomites or a rustic hotel in Yosemite Valley. Enjoy the comfort of the same room every day (as well as only unpacking once), and a selection of the best restaurants and other attractions in the neighborhood. All you have to do is sit back and relax as we pick the best combination of walks available either directly from the foot of your accommodation or just a short transfer away (often a public bus or train). To put it bluntly – you'll be fairly comfortable while experiencing the best walks and hikes going 'round.

Point-to-point – this style of holiday makes you walk from one place to the other, pretty much every day. However, we do throw in a rest day every now and then, depending on the region and the amount of hiking we need to cover on a daily basis. On point-to-point tours, you'll start in A and finish in B. Think about the Inca Trail, the Mount Everest Base Camp trek, the Hadrian’s Wall hike, or the Mont Blanc Circuit. In most cases, we'll transfer your main luggage across to the next destination, so all you need to carry is the essentials (water, sun protection, waterproofs, extra layers, snacks, and a camera). 

What is included in walking & trekking trips?

We include accommodation as per the itinerary, as well as transportation to and from trailheads and to all other included activities (note: this transportation is often public as that's the way we like to travel). We also include ALL hiking permits, whether it is in the Himalayas or the US National Parks. On top of that, we provide our highly qualified and experienced leaders to guide you throughout the trip.

How fit do I need to be to go on a walking & trekking trip?

We have walks ranging from relatively easy to rather challenging. But no matter what degree of difficulty or distance you choose to walk, we recommend that you have a reasonable level of fitness to ensure that you get the most out of your walk or hike. Try to commit to some type of physical training program around six weeks before you depart. Here are some suggestions: Long walks: go on some long walks of 3-6 hours duration before you leave, wearing the boots you’re taking, and carrying a small backpack to get comfortable with carrying your gear for long stretches. Aerobic exercise: running, distance cycling, and the various aerobic classes offered at gyms (like pump, spin, zumba, and circuit classes) all help to give you fitness and stamina. Strength training: doing body weight training like pushups, squats, dips, lunges, etc. helps to build up your muscle strength, which is needed for the steady climb up a mountain if you’re embarking on this type of hike (bootcamp sessions are perfect for this type of training).

When is the best time to go on a walking trip in Europe?

You might think that the best time to go on a walking trip in Europe is during the summer months of June, July, and August, but actually, the shoulder seasons of both spring and autumn are preferable due to lower temperatures and fewer crowds, especially if you're heading to the Mediterranean. 

What to pack for a walking trip in Europe

What to pack for a walking trip can depend on how difficult the walk that you plan to do is but generally it's a good idea to make sure you have the below items:

• Backpack/day bag 
• Comfortable walking shoes 
• Retractable walking poles
• Reusable drink bottle 

Read more about what to pack for a walking tour

Are Intrepid's Europe walking tours easily accessible?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. However, we’re always happy to talk to travelers 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.

Learn more about Accessible Travel with Intrepid

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Hiking Tours in Europe

Macs Adventure has built its first-class reputation for self-guided active travel in Europe since its foundation in 2003. We have fine-tuned our European alpine hikes ,  pilgrimages , long distant trails , and indulgent ‘ in style ’ hiking tours. We have uncovered hidden ancient pathways, rocky coastlines, and Roman backroads where civilizations grew, and the best hikes were born. You’ll often be greeted by locals who are eager to share the hidden secrets that nature and culture hold in Europe.

The cultural diversity in Europe affords the opportunity to awaken all your senses! Savor delicious tapas on the Camino Frances , the finest whiskey on the West Highland Way , or unique local fare with a dramatic backdrop of the Alps on the Tour du Mont Blanc . In the Italian Cinque Terre , you will hike past local picturesque vineyards during the day and sip the local fine wine in the evening. Visit the Bernese Oberland to spot the Chamois on mountain paths, or head to Portugal's Silver Coast  to smell the wildflowers in the hills of Sintra.

There are so many special places in Europe, and we’re here to find the right experience for you!

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Walking Tours in Paris, France

Get the most out of the city of lights and use your vacation time well with our city tours in paris.

Enjoy the heart of Europe to the fullest on our walking tours. See the iconic streets, squares, buildings, gardens, and monuments. Visit the most important masterpieces on our Louvre tours with pre-reserved tickets in semi-private groups of 6 people. Choose from themes like the French Revolution, street life, impressionism, or Jewish history. Thanks to their specific themes, our walks can be considered some of the most interesting France city tours. We offer both Paris private tours, as well as walks in small groups.

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Paris: Musée d’Orsay Guided Tour with Pre-reserved Tickets

Discover the world’s largest collection of Impressionist art at the Musée d’Orsay with pre-reserved tickets. Join a guided tour to see masterpieces by Van Gogh, Manet, Renoir, Monet, and more.

• Exclusive Experience

Paris: Masterpieces of the Louvre Tour with Pre-reserved Tickets

Only 6 individuals led by an expert guide for an exclusive experience where you can discover the masterpieces of the Louvre in just 2 hours–with pre-booked tickets!

Our semi-private guided tour is the most efficient way to appreciate the potentially overwhelming amount of art housed in the Louvre Museum

• Exceptional Destination In Paris

Paris: Jewish History Guided Tour In Marais

Explore the cultural and historic center of Jewish Paris in the Marais district. Join a small group tour to witness the rich legacy of Jewish culture in Paris led by an expert local guide.

Learn fascinating insights and stories about the people, events, and traditions that have shaped the Marais Jewish district over the centuries.

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Paris: Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie Guided Tour with Tickets

Visit the iconic landmarks of Île de la Cité, including Notre Dame Cathedral, on a guided walking tour. Explore the Gothic architecture of Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie with pre-reserved tickets.

• Must Do in Paris

Paris: Sacré-Coeur and Montmartre Guided Walking Tour

Discover the secrets of Montmartre on a small group walking tour. Enjoy panoramic city views from Sacré-Coeur Basilica, and explore the famous Place du Tertre with an expert guide.

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European Literary London Walking Tour

17 May 2024, 3:30 pm–5:00 pm

A walking tour through Bloomsbury offers the opportunity to explore London through the eyes of European writers, through the ages.

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For centuries, writers have come to London from across Europe and beyond – as honoured guests and anonymous aliens; tourists and refugees; students and wanderers. In the squalid slums of the East End, in the glitter and glamour of Belgravia, in the unspoilt expanse of Hampstead Heath, these writers lose – and – find themselves. Their encounters with the city leave a mark: on the writer, on their work and, sometimes, on London itself.

As part of the European Writers’ Festival , held at the British Library on 18-19 May, UCL European Institute is curating a ‘European Literary London Walk’: a wander through the London neighbourhood of Bloomsbury. Along the way, we will read and explore the city through the texts of European artists, authors, musicians, poets, philosophers and scientists , who have – across centuries and districts, genres and viewpoints – encountered London and were transformed by it.

The walk, inspired by the European Literary Map of London , will take place on Friday 17 th May, 3.30-5pm. We commence at the British Library Foyer and end on the UCL Bloomsbury Campus. There, you can explore the Lost & Found: Mapping European Literary London Exhibition , which has brought the European Literary Map of London to life in real time and space.  

Curated by UCL European Institute, UCL Arts & Humanities and UCL CASA. N.B. This walk is run as a pilot for European writers here for the European Writers' Festival and EUNIC members. All available tickets have been allocated.

Photo by Louis Cheuk on Unsplash

Tiger Woods opens PGA Championship in 1-over 72

Tiger Woods readies to begin Thursday's opening round at Valhalla. (Ben Jared/PGA TOUR)

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Tiger Woods knows he's competitively rusty, compared to the vast majority of this week's PGA Championship field. That doesn't mean he expects any less of himself.

Woods opened the 106th PGA Championship in 1-over 72, a mixed bag of a morning in Louisville, Kentucky. He battled through a series of wayward tee shots to remain around par through the majority of his opening round at Valhalla Golf Club, and he caught fire midway through his second nine to move into red figures. Woods, though, closed with back-to-back three-putt bogeys that will leave a sour taste in his mouth overnight. He's 10 strokes off the pace of Xander Schauffele, who carded 9-under 62 to begin the week, the PGA Championship's single-round record low score.

The day resembled his first round at last month's Masters (1-over 73), with an up-and-down cadence but an end result that should fall near the projected cut line. Woods followed with a second-round 72 at the Masters to make the cut, setting a tournament record with his 24th straight made cut. He'll look Friday to play the weekend for a second straight major championship, aiming for a faster start than he accomplished Thursday (where he was lucky to escape his first three holes in just 1 over, before working into more of a flow).

"It took me probably three holes to get back into competitive flow again and get a feel for hitting the ball out there in competition, adrenaline, temperatures, green speeds," Woods said after his opening round. "These are all things that normally I adjust to very quickly, and it just took me a few holes to get into it.

"I am getting stronger for sure ... Each day is a little bit different. Some days, it's better than others. It's just the way it is. My body is just that way. Some days, it feels great, and other days, a bit of a struggle."

Woods' history echoes throughout the grounds at Valhalla, as his 2000 PGA Championship victory here (outlasting Bob May in a three-hole playoff) marked the third leg of the "Tiger Slam," which he completed at the 2001 Masters. Woods won the 2000 U.S. Open and The Open by a combined 23 shots, before the wily veteran May gave him all he could handle for 75 holes at Valhalla. It might be a tall task to expect Woods to hoist another Wanamaker Trophy this weekend, but making the cut for a second straight major championship is certainly in the realm.

"I think that I've made a few cuts in a row, what was it, 140-some odd," Woods said Thursday. "So you have to just grind it out. It's a marathon. Major championships are a long grind. It's just plotting along. It's not a sprint. It's just a grind.

"You can't win a tournament unless you make the cut. That's the whole idea is get to the weekend so that you can participate and have a chance to win. I've been on the cut number and have won tournaments, or I've been ahead and leading tournaments and I've won tournaments. But you have to get to the weekend in order to win a golf tournament."

Read below for hole-by-hole updates from Woods' opening round at the 106th PGA Championship.

1:25 p.m.: It's a disappointing finish for Woods, who closes his round with a second straight three-putt bogey.

He splits the fairway off the tee at the dogleg-right, 411-yard par 4, leaving just 144 yards to the hole, but plays a substandard approach to 34 feet, leaves his birdie putt 6 feet short and cannot convert to save par. It means a 1-over 72 for Woods, featuring some good and some bad. He'll still be within striking distance of the cut line at Valhalla, but he's 10 strokes back of early leader Xander Schauffele, who set a PGA Championship single-round scoring record with a 9-under 62.

1:10 p.m.: Woods plays to the front-left portion of the 169-yard, par-3 eighth, but his birdie putt releases well past the hole to leave a lengthy par attempt from 10 feet. He can't convert. Just like that, after reaching red numbers for the first time on the previous hole, he's back to level par for the day. One hole remains.

12:55 p.m.: After a solid two-putt par from 54 feet at the staunch par-4 sixth, Woods solves the double-fairway, par-5 seventh. He plays to the left fairway off the tee, strikes a 238-yard second shot into the right greenside bunker (a conservative line with flanking down the left side) and gets up-and-down with a birdie from 13 feet.

For the first time today, Woods is under par. It's a testament to his resilience after a shaky start, and his body appears to be holding up respectably. He's 1 under for the opening round with two holes to play. He's eight off the pace of leader Xander Schauffele, but the 15-time major champion is tied for 17th on the leaderboard, comfortably inside the projected cut line.

12:15 p.m.: Woods is finding a groove as the round progresses, but he can't quite get on a birdie run. He strikes a 69-yard wedge to 14 feet on the short par-4 fourth but cannot convert the birdie. He stuffs a 156-yard 8-iron to 9 feet on the scenic par-4 fifth, the approach shot descending down the hill, but cannot convert the birdie. He settles for back-to-back stress-free pars, remaining at even-par on his round with four holes to play. He's eight back of Xander Schauffele, who is threatening the PGA Championship's all-time single-round low of 63 (which has been recorded on 18 occasions).

11:45 a.m.: Tiger is a tactician. He stripes his tee shot on the 194-yard, par-3 third to 5 feet and converts for birdie, returning to even-par on the day. It's his second birdie of the round, accompanying his 3 on the limestone-waterfall par-4 13th. Despite some loose tee shots at times, he's making it work with his trademark grit that has led to a record-tying 82 PGA TOUR titles.

11:30 a.m.: Woods is struggling to find a groove off the tee, but he's making it work anyway. He tugs his tee shot left at the par-4 first hole, his 10th, but muscles out an approach onto the green to leave a 19-foot birdie attempt; he two-putts for par. He over-cuts his tee shot on the long par-4 second, catching a greenside bunker; he plays his second shot to the fairway short-right of the green. He plays a deft 35-yard pitch to 5 feet and saves a crafty par. He's 1 over through 11 holes.

10:55 a.m.: After two big shots at the 571-yard, par-5 18th, Woods faces a straightforward eagle pitch from a collection area just behind the green. He can't take advantage though, as the 56-foot pitch settles 14 feet short of the hole, and he two-putts for a slightly disappointing par. Woods turns in 1-over 37, six strokes behind leader Xander Schauffele, who turns in 5-under 31 from the same nine.

10:35 a.m.: Woods makes back-to-back pars on Nos. 16 and 17, and they come in contrasting styles. His par at the brawny 503-yard, par-4 16th is routine -- fairway, green, two-putt from 24 feet (although the second putt is a 7-foot comebacker after a slick birdie try). He fights harder on the par-4 17th, missing his tee shot into the right rough and his second shot into the left greenside bunker but then getting up-and-down with a 7-footer. He's 1 over through eight holes, headed to the par-5 18th.

10:04 a.m.: Woods falls victim to Valhalla's thick rough on the par-4 15th, as he misses his tee shot into the left rough and is forced to lay up, similar to on No. 12. This time he can't save par, as his 68-yard third shot lands 33 feet past the hole and he two-putts for bogey. Woods returns over par for the day, now 1 over through six.

9:40 a.m.: Woods plays a smart shot to the middle of the green on the 256-yard, par-3 14th, and he comfortably two-putts from 54 feet. Woods stays even-par through five holes, as he has demonstrated good pace on the greens early Thursday in the Bluegrass State.

9:20 a.m.: Woods rolls the momentum from an unlikely par at the 12th into his first birdie of the week. On the iconic limestone-waterfall par-4 13th, he splits the fairway and plays a deft 92-yard wedge to 18 feet. He doesn't miss a beat on the uphill birdie try; it finds the center of the cup. Woods returns to even-par on the day.

9:02 a.m.: Woods is a 15-time major champion for many reasons; among them, he has a propensity to grind out unexpected pars to keep a round on the tracks. The par-4 12th hole is proof positive; after missing the fairway left into thick rough and being forced to lay up, Woods gets up and down from 180 yards, draining a 15-footer to save par from near the green's back edge. He delivers a sheepish salute to the appreciative fans, staying 1 over through three holes.

8:45 a.m.: Woods gets scrappy on the 211-yard, par-3 11th, as his tee shot misses the green long-right and he chips back over the green into a bunker. He saves bogey with a 6-footer, though, limiting the damage. He's 1 over through two to begin the day.

8:32 a.m.: Woods plays a fairway metal to the rough some 50 yards short of the green on his opening hole, the par-5 10th, leaving an awkward angle for his third shot, short-sided. He plays a masterful high flop shot for his third, 12 feet past the hole, and two-putts for an opening par. The 82-time TOUR winner is off and running at Valhalla.

8:15 a.m.: Woods takes driver for his first swing, beginning on the par-5 10th, and uncorks a high fade that splits the fairway. The crowd roars. Woods is sporting a salmon shirt with his new Sun Day Red branding.

Live from Paris: Taylor Swift adds 'Tortured Poets' songs to Eras Tour in France

PARIS, France — The Chairman jump-started her tour after a two-month hiatus, and anticipation was high over whether Taylor Swift would incorporate her 11th era album into the Eras Tour set at La Défense Arena on Thursday.

She did and then some.

Swift extended the set list by one track to land at 46 songs. But many changes were made along the way. She added a new era for "The Tortured Poets Department," cut a handful of songs and rearranged most of the eras including combining the sets for "Folklore" and "Evermore."

She also debuted a number of new outfits along the way.

Delivering all the updates were Bryan West, the USA TODAY Network's full-time Taylor Swift reporter, from inside La Défense Arena in Paris, with Swiftie and trending reporter Anthony Robledo assisting from his desk.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

We hereby present the minutes from the first Eras Tour meeting in Paris, France.

More: Taylor Swift unveils new Eras Tour set list in Paris

'Midnights' set follows secret songs

Swift stuck to her original set list for the "Midnights" era by singing "Lavender Haze," "Anti-Hero" and "Midnight Rain." She ended the night with a triumphant rendition of "Karma" as usual.

'loml' is second secret song

Fans got one more taste of "The Tortured Poets Department" when Swift played the heartbreaking song "loml" on the piano during her secret set.

'Paris' is a secret song, of course

Swift started her secret set with "Paris," a bonus song from her "Midnights" album.

'Tortured Poets' set list

Swift played these songs from her newest album:

• "But Daddy I Love Him"
• "So High School"
• "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me"
• "Fortnight"
• "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived"
• "I Can Do It with a Broken Heart"

New 'Tortured Poets' set is here

Toward the end of her show, Swift officially launched the long-awaited “The Tortured Poets Department” section of the tour after the 1989 era.

Swift performed the track “But Daddy I Love Him” off the April 19 album for her ecstatic fans while wearing a new beige dress with cursive letters.  

A road spiraled down the catwalk in an animation to initiate the era. The background animation showed a deserted road while large cages animated and fell on the road.

“Oh my god you should see your faces,” she sang.

She quickly segued into a brief moment of “So High School,” the beloved track speculated to be about her romance with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. She quickly performed the powerhouse anthem “Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me.”

Swift switched to “Down Bad” before seamlessly transitioning into the lead single “Fortnight.” Stage production recreated an asylum that resembled the music video for the song with Post Malone, recorded harmony played concluding the song. 

Dancers entered the stage in a marching band style format playing drums as she performed the wrath-fueled song “The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived.” Jan Ravnik and Kameron Saunders then revived Swift in a jazzy skit to set up “I Can Do With A Broken Heart,” where she debuted another new outfit. 

“The End” text displayed wrapping up the era that’s likely here to stay. Other beloved tracks like “Guilty As Sin” and “Florida!” did not make the cut.

New '1989' outfit

Swift never goes out of Style. During her “1989” set, she debuted a new, sequined outfit of blue and pink. Her sparkly shoes matched with a different colored heel on each. For the bridge of “Blank Space,” the crowd started chanting in Sydney, Australia, “Syd-ney” as a nod to the 1989 World Tour concert movie where Swift would chant the name of the city she was in after hitting a pole with a club two times. Singapore followed the chant and Taylor Nation tweeted they want every city to incorporate the fan-fueled chant.In Paris, thousands chanted “Par-ee,” the French way to say the capital city.

Swift made no cuts to the "1989" set.

Four songs cut from 'Folklore' and 'Evermore'

The new set list cut four tracks from the "Folklore" and "Evermore" eras:

• "'Tis the Damn Season"
• "Tolerate It"
• "The Last Great American Dynasty"

The combined set included eight songs altogether and wrapped up with "Willow."

'Folkmore' set debuts

Swift revealed she merged the 2020 pandemic albums “Folklore” and “Evermore” into one section. She told fans she wrote “Folklore” to represent spring and summer with “Evermore” representing fall and winter in what she always considered sister albums.

“On the Eras Tour we have now reunited the sisters, combined them into one chapter,” she said. “You can call it whatever you want as long as you promise to sing ‘Champagne Problems’ with me.”

'Folklore' set: 'Cardigan' makes the cut

Many fans had speculated "Cardigan" would be cut from the set list. But Swift actually moved it to the top of the "Folklore" set.

Up next: 'Reputation'

Swift kicked off her fifth set with "Ready for It?"

Another surprise: 'Speak Now' era comes fourth

Swift updated her "Speak Now" set with an intro dance featuring Raphael Thomas and eight other dancers wearing flowy purple dresses. She then sang "Enchanted."

Fan favorite track "Long Live" was cut from the set list.

Order of eras changed

After a fairly routine "Fearless" set, Swift altered her concert by including the “Red” era third instead of the expected “Evermore” set. Previously, "Red" came fifth.

With a new shirt that read “This Is Not Taylor’s Version,” the singer performed "22" and showed her audience that they needed to leave any expectations at home. 

The relocated "Red" set included the same four songs: "22," "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together," "I Knew You Were Trouble" and "All Too Well (10-Minute Version)."

Beflore playing “All Too Well (10 Minute Version),” Swift talked about bringing all of her favorite memories to France.She did her 2019 “Lover” live show here but hadn’t brought a tour to the country since the Speak Now World Tour 13 years ago.“I cannot thank you enough. I’m so moved," she said.

Follow along with set list changes here .

First set list change

Swift cut "The Archer" from her "Lover" set before beginning her "Fearless" set in a silver and black minidress as opposed to her classic gold one. A graphic showed her "Lover" house with a new addition in the attic for "The Tortured Poets Department." Her "Fearless" set remained the same with "Fearless," "You Belong With Me" and "Love Story."

More: Taylor Swift's 'Love Story' castle will soon host weddings

'Je m'appelle Taylor'

In her monologue before playing the song "Lover," Swift said the night would span 18 years of music. Previously, the concert covered 16 years. Get ready for a "The Tortured Poets Department" addition some time tonight.

She confirmed the tour would still go era by era, and also spoke about how Paramore is a band she idolized since she was a teenager. She ended with some French: "Je m'appelle Taylor."

First new outfit

Swift debuted a new, orange bodysuit and jacket for the "Lover" set.

Snippet of 'Tortured Poets' in intro

A snippet of the song "The Tortured Poets Department" was included in the intro music Swift kicks the concert off with. Is she foreshadowing other changes ahead? It seems likely.

Taylor Swift takes the stage

Swift took the stage about 8 p.m. in Paris (2 p.m. ET) to relaunch her Eras Tour in Europe. She kicked it off with a countdown clock and the Lesley Gore song "You Don't Own Me" as usual. Then she began her "Lover" set with "Miss Americana."

Paramore covers Blondie, Talking Heads in Paris set list

At the Paris show Thursday, Paramore energized fans with eight tracks including their cover off the upcoming “Stop Making Sense” tribute album out May 17 featuring artists like Miley Cyrus and Lorde.

Debuting a blond mullet, lead singer Hayley Williams encouraged fans to dance without fear of judgment ahead of Swift’s performance.

“Enjoy your time with Miss Taylor, we will see you next time,” Williams said. 

Paramore's set list included:

• "Hard Times"
• "Burning Down the House" (Talking Heads cover) 
• "Caught in the Middle"
• “Brick by Boring Brick”
• “The Only Exception”
• “That’s What You Get”
• “Ain't It Fun”
• “This Is Why”

Paramore begins their set

At about 6:45 p.m. in Paris (12:45 p.m. ET), Paramore began their set, officially restarting the second year of the historic Eras Tour. Lead singer Hayley Williams sported a new, blond mullet hairdo.

Paramore opens European leg of Eras Tour

The American rock band is joining Swift on her European leg of 51 shows. Paramore also opened the show for two nights in Glendale, Arizona, in 2023. Their setlist then included nine songs:

• "This Is Why"
• "That’s What You Get"
• "The Only Exception"
• "Still Into You"
• "Rose-Colored Boy"
• "Misery Business"
• "Ain’t It Fun"

Where to watch the Eras Tour livestreams

The Eras Tour is one of the first tours that has been followed, globally, by thousands of fans on digital platforms. Fans dedicate part of their concert experience to livestreaming as Swift performs. Livestream Queen Tess Bohne has spearheaded the "Great War" to find fans going live on social media and broadcasting a custom show to tens of thousands of fans almost every night on her account @tessdear .

On YouTube, user @TaylorSwiftHockeyBro also livestreams the 3-hour show, and on Twitch, @folkleric is a host fans follow.

There is also an app, Swift Alert , that notifies fans who only want to watch certain eras like the acoustic, surprise set. The app also sends out push alerts if there are any major announcements.

What secret songs are left?

For the past 83 shows, Swift has had an acoustic set she customizes every stop with a guitar and piano performance. In 2024, the Eras Tour star added mash-ups of her songs for each stop. Here are the songs she has yet to perform:

• "Taylor Swift" (debut album): "Mary's Song" and "A Perfectly Good Heart"
• "Fearless": "The Way I Loved You," "Change," "Superstar," "We Were Happy," "That's When," "Don't You" and "Bye Bye Baby"
• "Red": "Girl At Home," "Ronan," "Forever Winter" and "Run"
• "1989": "Sweeter Than Fiction"
• "Reputation": "I Did Something Bad"
• "Lover": "London Boy," "Soon You'll Get Better" and "It's Nice to Have a Friend"
• "Folklore": "Hoax"
• "Evermore": "Happiness" and "Closure"
• "Midnights": "Paris" and "Glitch"
• "The Tortured Poets Department": all 31 tracks

Bienvenue dans le 'Eras Tour'

Welcome to the Eras Tour (France's Version). Swift is kicking off her 3-plus-hour concert from La Défense Arena in the Jardins de l’Arche district. The venue is Europe’s largest indoor arena and houses the Racing 92 rugby club. More than 40,000 fans will watch the concert, according to the stadium's website.

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