Europe Tours
- Barcelona (Spain)
- Mont Blanc (France)
- Greek Islands (Greece)
- Athens (Greece)
- Dingle Peninsula (Ireland)
- Pompeii (Italy)
- Rome (Italy)
- Lisbon (Portugal)
- Seville (Spain)
Europe has always been the destination of choice for those seeking a connection with the history of western culture. Beyond the capital cities and museums hides another Europe vacation opportunity, studded with incredible scenery, quaint villages, quiet coastlines, friendly people and adventurous activities. Europe travel options include some of the world?s greatest treks, walks, bike rides and leisurely sightseeing excursions, which run through landscapes as grand as the Alps, yet as subtle as Tuscany. How about a winter experience in Scandinavia? Or an epic 80+ day tour through a dozen countries? From the turquoise coast of Turkey and medieval capitals of Eastern Europe to Spanish Andalucia, discover the real Europe with the Great Adventure People!
Scottish Highlands Adventure (EUSH)
Scotland may be known for its whisky but it’s also overflowing with glens, rivers and lochs that are waiting for the adventurous. This energetic 7-day trip offers a combination of hillwalking, adrenaline-sport options and local culture. Test your nerves rafting the River Tay's white waters and settle them again sampling the local whisky. Admire the views around Ben Vrackie, Glen Shee and the best of the Scottish Highlands. This is a great option for the typically independent traveller wanting to get further afield in the rolling hills.
Highlights: Rafting the River Tay, hiking down 'glens' and up 'bens', sampling Scotland's finest export- whisky
- Trip Style:
- Active
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 4
Croatia Adventure - Zagreb to Dubrovnik (ECZD)
A trip from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is not your backpacker’s typical European tour—it’s way better. In one week, scramble from historic Zagreb along the Adriatic Coast to stunning Dubrovnik. Along the way you’ll hit the highlights—did we mention Pag and Hvar, along the coastline? But you’ll also discover a Europe too often ignored by travellers. Party in exclusive clubs and wander historic and picture-perfect old lanes. Come away from Europe with more than just great photographs—travel with young and fun travellers and you’ve got friends for life.
Highlights: Making new friends over drinks along the Adriatic, scrambling around medieval fortresses, connecting with the culture in charming old villages, discovering the rich and varied countryside of the Balkans, exploring Diocletian's Palace on a guided tour.
Greek Islands Sailing Adventure (Athens to Mykonos) (GVAM)
Our 15m exclusive yacht is the perfect way to see some of the most beautiful islands in the world. This 8-day adventure takes you from the Greek capital, Athens to the famous island of Mykonos. Relax in the sun or try your hand at sailing as your experienced skipper guides you through deserted bays and famous archaeological sites. You will have plenty of time for hiking, snorkelling, exploring and relaxing before digging into some local seafood.
Highlights: Relax on white-sand beaches and swim in brilliant turquoise water, try your hand at sailing (or just relax on the deck), wander through whitewashed villages, taste traditional Greek food and wine
- Trip Style:
- Small Ship Cruising & Sailing
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Adriatic Adventure - Dubrovnik to Athens (ECDA)
You could see Europe the same as everyone else, or you could live it like you mean it. With magnificent Dubrovnik as a launching pad, you’ll head south through Montenegro and undiscovered Albania, hit Corfu and its fabulous beaches en route to a history fix in ancient Athens. Along the way, you’ll climb the lanes of walled towns and get down in exclusive clubs. In the company of other young, fun travellers this trip is utterly unique—just like you.
Highlights: Lazing on Corfu’s beaches, discovering enigmatic Albania, making new friends over drinks in the Dalmatian Islands, connecting with the culture in charming old villages, walking through historic Athens
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Loire Valley Cycling (EFAA)
Each summer the Tour de France races across the country, giving a select group of very talented cyclists a chance to see the country from a blurry perspective. On this cycling tour of the Loire Valley, knowing the difference between a front derailleur and a rear dropout isn't necessary. Hop on one of our bikes and experience ornate châteaux, rustic markets, vineyards and rural Gallic charm. Think of this as the perfect combination of slow food, relaxed living and a leisurely pace—ideal for seeing the inspiring scenery.
Highlights: Cycling from one glorious château to the next, appreciating the lush Loire Valley scenery, visiting local markets, tasting wine in ancient vineyards, pedalling through the 'Garden of France'.
- Trip Style:
- Active
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Local Living Croatia: Krk Island (ECZL)
The wise traveller knows that the best way to get under the skin of a destination is to hunker down and stay awhile. This 8-day trip lets you dig deeper on the beautiful Croatian island of Krk. You'll share your base—a cluster of old stone homes with beautiful interiors and a big terrace with a barbecue—with other like-minded travellers but are free to explore any way you want. Witness wine-making and olive oil processing, cycle to Roman ruins, hit the beach or head out on day trips to nearby islands.
Highlights: Sharing a rental property with optional day trips and activities, chilling out at your new home in the picturesque village of Gostinjac, Exploring Krk's hidden gems by foot and bicycle, Discovering other islands on optional excursions, Daytripping to the beach, Dining with new friends—the locals.
- Trip Style:
- Local Living
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 1
Eastern Turkey Adventure (ETET)
Spectacular mosques, rustic Armenian churches and towering stone castles reward those willing to get off the beaten path. From ancient mud brick cities to exotic bazaars and the mysterious fallen stone heads at Nemrut Dagi, this 8-day trip is Turkey at its most fascinating. Travel to the land beneath the snow-capped peak of Mt Ararat, the legendary resting place of Noah's Ark, and immerse yourself in the magnificent sights and legendary hospitality of the people in this lesser known, and lesser travelled, region of Turkey.
Highlights: Exploring ancient mud brick cities, bargaining in bazaars, tasting regional specialties, visiting the mysterious stone heads of Mount Nemrut.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Trekking in Transylvania (EATC)
Enter the world of legend and embrace the myth of Count Dracula as you trek through the rugged wilderness of Romania. Ancient border roads and shepherds’ trails will reward active adventurers willing to break a sweat with stunning mountain scenery populated with bears, wolves and lynx. You'll stay in simple guesthouses and travel in small groups with local guides for a truly authentic insight into this wild corner of Europe. From steep dramatic slopes to small one-school, one-pub villages, experience the beauty of the Carpathian Mountains.
Highlights: Visiting 'Dracula's Castle' in Bran, hiking the undiscovered Romanian countryside, marvelling at magnificent Carpathian views, savouring Romanian culture and history.
Amalfi Family Adventure (EITF)
Eager to expose the kids to Italian cuisine that doesn’t come in a cardboard box in 30 minutes or less? Take ‘em to the Amalfi Coast. Long a secluded hideaway for adults, the Coast has the most for the younger set as well. Based in smaller towns amidst truly breathtaking scenery, there's a huge variety of activities for your family. Try a delicious cooking class, see the ruins of the doomed city of Pompeii, hike the hills of Tre Calli, explore Capri and more, all in a breezy and affordable seven days. This is pizza’s ancestral home, after all. Deliver yourself to its doorstep.
Highlights: Visiting the ruins of the Roman town of Pompeii, Staring into the crater of Mt. Vesuvius, enjoying small town life in Amalfi
- Trip Style:
- Family
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Croatia Active Adventure (ECTT)
Dotted with unspoiled islands, secluded beaches and miles of coastal paths, the Dalmatian Coast remains one of Eastern Europe’s most beautiful destinations. Ideal for frugal travellers looking to try a variety of things in an out-of-the-way place, this idyllic slice of Croatia along the surprisingly balmy Adriatic is practically bursting with outdoorsy potential. Hike or bike the ruggedly beautiful rocky coastlines, paddle a sea kayak to an uninhabited island, or just laze about on the beach and let the time pass. The choice is yours, and the choices are infinite.
Highlights: Enjoying a guided sea kayaking excursion around Dubrovnik city walls, cycling in the Konavle Valley, hiking along Dalmatian cliffs, visiting the island of Kolocep, wandering in Dubrovnik old town.
- Trip Style:
- Active
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 4
Cycling in Tuscany (EITC)
In a country famed for its extensive (not to mention delicious) culinary traditions, Tuscany is top dog. And what better way to work up an appetite for all those gastronomic delights than by taking a leisurely ride through some of the most gorgeous countryside you’ll find anywhere? On this trip, you’ll explore the gently rolling hills and tiny villages of this idyllic patch of Europe from the seat of a bike, then dig in to expertly prepared meals and flavourful wines drawn from the land you’ve spent all day traversing. If you really are what you eat, expect to become exquisite.
Highlights: Learning traditional recipes and eating delicious Tuscan cuisine, cycling through Tuscan countryside and stone-walled hill towns, visiting quaint Pienza and medieval Montepulciano.
- Trip Style:
- Active
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Croatia Sailing Adventure - Split to Dubrovnik (ECVS)
Whether you're looking for relaxed afternoons lazing on the deck of a yacht or time to indulge in the nightlife, this Croatian cruise aims to please. Discover charming villages and stunning scenery as you sail from Split to Dubrovnik on a small yacht. The emphasis is on connecting with the country and culture and you'll fall in love with this region's beauty on hikes to castles and waterfalls. Toss in beach barbecues and snorkelling and you have an incredible and affordable island getaway.
Highlights: Connect with history at Diocletian's Palace in Split, discover secluded islands and deserted beaches, explore Korcula—the birthplace of Marco Polo, wander the forested paradise of Mljet National Park, sail into the ancient port of Dubrovnik—'the Pearl of the Adriatic'
- Trip Style:
- Small Ship Cruising & Sailing
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Local Living France: Burgundy Canal Boat (EFBL)
Get a new perspective on France with this canal barge adventure. Each day you'll cruise for 4-5 hours, clearing locks and seeing the world at a pace you'll appreciate. Along the way stop for wine tastings and gastronomic indulgences, cycle along country lanes and hike green valleys. Your houseboat home has only four cabins, so you're sharing the deck and the views with like-minded travellers. With a CEO there to offer advice—and steer!—you'll quickly realize that getting there is half the adventure. Please note that the following is a sample itinerary only and may change due to canal conditions, traffic, weather and other factors. Some departures will run in the opposite direction.
Highlights: Sharing a canal boat with optional day trips and activities, cruising along the lush Saône River, hiking and cycling riverside trails, tasting French gastronomic delights, sampling world-famous Burgundy wines.
- Trip Style:
- Local Living
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Northern Spain by Bike (ESSB)
Encounter the beauty of Catalunya's countryside and its rustic towns on this compact and active bike tour. Designed for the weekend cyclist, this itinerary is challenging enough to get the heart pumping but comfortable enough that you can still appreciate the crystal-clear streams, ancient walled cities and stunning Mediterranean coastlines of the Pyrenees. Journey across volcanic landscape to ancient towns where you can recharge with culinary delicacies before winding down on the beaches of the Costa Brava. Experience the beauty of Catalunya and cycle through its heart!
Highlights: Cycling through glorious countryside, Learning about Catalan culture and customs, Savouring tapas and local wines.
- Trip Style:
- Active
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Greek Islands Sailing Adventure (Mykonos to Santorini) (GVMS)
A yacht adventure is the ideal way to experience what many consider the world's most beautiful islands: the Greek Islands. Sail 8 days aboard our 15m (50-ft.) yachts, with time for hiking, snorkelling and relaxing. Explore ancient archaeological sites and taverna-lined harbours, dine on fresh seafood and don't forget to try the ouzo!
Highlights: Explore the beautiful southern Cyclades by sailboat, stop at small off-the-beaten-path islands along the way, relax on white-sand beaches, try your hand at sailing (or just relax on the deck), stroll through local villages and sample traditional Greek food and wine
- Trip Style:
- Small Ship Cruising & Sailing
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Trekking in the Dolomites (EIDT)
Beloved by mountaineers and nature lovers alike, the Dolomites sit perched atop northern Italy like a rocky crown. This exhilarating trip through the mountains features day treks through some of Italy’s most unbelievable scenery, with plenty of visits to small villages along the way to soak up the unique local Ladin culture and cuisine. Nights are spent in mountain refuges, where your hosts will ply you with hearty home-cooked meals. Eat up; you won’t find tastier mountain-trekking food anywhere else.
Highlights: enjoying magnificent hiking amongst towering peaks, passing by the highest peak in the Dolomites, revelling in the chance to learn about local Ladin language and customs.
- Trip Style:
- Active
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 5
Local Living Greece: Crete (EGCL)
Fall in love with Crete on this Local Living adventure. You can visit ancient settlements, attend wine tastings or sit by the harbour and soak up the island's spirit. How you spend your time is up to you. Get active and hike Samariá Gorge—Europe's longest—or the Agia Irini Gorge, or both. You’ll share your home—and its pool—with like-minded travellers but your days are your own. With a CEO there for advice, the only thing you'll need to worry about is never wanting to leave.
Highlights: Sharing a rental property with optional day trips and activities, hiking Europe's longest gorge, admiring the peaceful meadows and ancient settlements, rambling along Agia Irini Gorge from Sougia to Omalos, enjoying the churches of Chania, sipping local wines and playing backgammon with the locals, relaxing at your Cretan home.
- Trip Style:
- Local Living
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 1
Iceland Family Adventure (ELFA)
Glaciers, volcanoes, all-day sunshine, Viking heritage… Iceland sounds unbelievable on paper, and it’s even more extraordinary in the flesh. Bring the kids and embark on this speedy 5-day, Reykjavik-based trip and encounter the majestic waterfalls and hot springs of the Golden Circle and Thingvellier National Park, bike in the long shadow of Thorbjörn Mountain, swim in the famous Blue Lagoon and partake in loads of other activities from whale-watching to whitewater rafting. Just five days, but It’ll stick with you for ages.
Highlights: Cycling through towering volcanoes, Watching waterfalls rolling over the hillside, Admiring dramatic ever-changing landscapes
Turkey On A Budget (ETTO)
White cliff waterfalls and the glimmering Blue Mosque—experience the best of Turkey's historical highlights and natural wonders in one incredible tour. Begin your trip roaming the palaces of Istanbul before journeying into the bizarre underground cities and the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Stick to public bus and budget accommodation, which not only keeps costs down but gives you a chance to really meet the locals. From the ancient Roman streets of Ephesus to bustling bazaars, follow your curiosity and spend 15 days discovering the culture and natural beauty of this fascinating region.
Highlights: Discovering historic cities and extraordinary scenery, chilling out in local villages, relaxing on an overnight boat trip, exploring the bustling streets of Istanbul
Local Living Iceland: South (ELIL)
It’s impossible not to fall in love with Iceland once you lay eyes on it for the first time, and nature enthusiasts, active hikers and shutterbugs will fall especially hard for this trip. This Local Living experience introduces you to the unique populace of this tiny island nation as they lead you around their exotic, volcano-forged homeland, dotted with hot springs, calving glaciers, crystal-clear rivers and crashing waterfalls. Active options include everything from snorkelling between tectonic plates and whale watching tours to whitewater canoeing trips and ATV excursions, so come prepared to do all sorts of everything.
Highlights: Sharing an old farmhouse with optional day trips and activities, exploring Iceland's geothermal features, chilling out on the peaceful property with hot tubs and a sauna, touring Reykjavik by bicycle, getting to know friendly Icelandic people
- Trip Style:
- Local Living
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
