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How to Choose the Perfect European Tour for Your Interests and Budget

What to consider before deciding which tour—and tour company—to go with..

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Think you’re not a tour person? Maybe it’s time to rethink that idea. In the last decade, I’ve watched a real evolution in the offerings of group tour operators and guided group tours . While the misconception that they’re all just travel tours for seniors is still alive and kicking, the tours of today are filled with an incredible mix of retirees, families , solo travelers, women-only travel groups , and young people looking to see more of the world without the hassle of planning and booking every detail.

One of the most popular group tour destinations for all ages is Europe, with its famed architecture, romantic villages, sophisticated cities, and natural beauty. But choosing a guided tour to any of Europe’s best vacation spots can be a daunting task.

How to Find the Right Europe Guided Tour for You

Tour operators are as varied as the tours they offer, so it’s important to consider both the right itinerary and tour company for your preferences and needs when you’re looking at trips to Europe. Whether you’ve got your eye on European capitals, the Swiss Alps, Eastern Europe, or something else, these nine tips will help you choose your perfect-fit guided tour in Europe.

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1. Research tour costs and compare what’s included and what’s not.

Cost is a huge factor when booking tours, but it’s not as simple as figuring out which is cheapest. Yes, it’s true that there are some more affordable tour companies and some companies that charge a premium, but there are some substantial differences in what’s included in the cost.

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Some European tour prices include everything from activities to most meals, while others will only include some activities and a small selection of meals. The cost of food—and anything you may want to do in your free time—are all things to consider before booking. After all, it makes sense to make the most of travel to Europe, so scrimping on activities isn’t generally the right approach. The added financial burden of things not included in a trip can bring the overall cost up dramatically, even if you think you’re getting a deal on the up-front price.

2. Learn about the pace of the tour.

There’s nothing worse than being beyond-exhausted by the time you return to your hotel each night on a European tour. After the cost of the trip, the second most important thing to look at when you’re comparing European tours is the pace of the tour.

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And while maximizing value with lots of activities is appealing, you should also consider the amount of down time built into the itinerary, since free time can be a great opportunity to explore a city on your own or to simply relax and recharge at the hotel to get ready for the next day of adventure.

3. Look for a mix of famous attractions and local experiences.

Does the tour go to the most popular Europe tourist attractions in the destinations it visits? Probably. But the best European tour packages will also take you to lesser-known, off the beaten path destinations and give you some sort of backstage access.

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Check the itinerary to be sure there’s a good mix of the must-see tourist attractions (like the Louvre in France or the Colosseum in Rome) and local experiences—think wine tastings in the caves of the Louvre or hands-on pasta-making classes. When you’re checking for the mix of experiences, also look to see if there are some experiences led by locals. Some companies offer things like a meal in a local’s house or the chance to visit a local artisan to learn about a traditional regional craft. These chances to learn from and talk to locals can be a priceless addition to a tour.

4. Find out the target audience and group size of the tour.

Every tour operator has a different target audience and group size that should be considered in your decision-making process. For example, Adventures by Disney is known for family travel adventures on which children can be as young as five years old, Road Scholar has a strong learning focus, and Intrepid attracts adventure travelers. By first making sure the tour company’s demographic fits your expectations, you’re going to be a lot closer to finding your just-right tour even before you choose an itinerary. ( Note: One of the things we’re great at here at TourScoop is our deep-dive reviews featuring everything you need to know about individual tour companies.)

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Group size is another important determining factor, and there’s benefits and drawbacks to both. While it’s easier to meet people in larger groups, traveling as part of a crowd can also make you feel like a highly visible tourist in small villages. Smaller group sizes are great for getting a hyper-local experience, but in smaller groups it can be tricky connecting with people who may already be traveling with a partner or friend. Figure out whether bigger or smaller is the better fit for you and then look for a company that has a tour that matches.

5. Find out how the tour company helps if something goes wrong.

One of the most unpredictable parts about traveling is getting to and from your destination , especially if you end up on a canceled or delayed flight , or if your luggage gets lost. Before you commit to a tour company, check to see if the company has an emergency number you can call if a flight is canceled or delayed, or if something else goes wrong while you are trying to get to Europe or back home.

6. Check the hotels you’d be staying at before booking a tour.

The hotels included on a tour’s itinerary are a huge part of the group-tour experience, especially since that’s likely where you will be having breakfast and spending some downtime. Before booking a tour, check out the hotels listed on the itinerary and read some reviews about each. Do reviewers say the rooms are clean and comfortable? What about the hotel staff being kind to guests? Is the breakfast service good—and is it quick and easy? These are all things to think about.

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Also check distance from activities. Some tour companies put guests up in centrally located hotels, which makes it easy to get from the hotel to the activities for the day. Other companies opt for less-expensive hotels farther out from the city, which means there will likely be longer driving times to activities, shorter times at attractions, and fewer options when it comes to activities on your own.

7. Get a sense for the style of the tour guides.

Each tour company has a different standard for its guides. Many companies pair up a U.S.-based guide who can easily relate to guests with a local guide who knows the ins and outs of a city and speaks the local language. Some might seek guides who are walking encyclopedias, but who may not prioritize connecting with guests. And others might have a strong service focus but who may not be able to answer every question about a place.

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There are of course plenty of guides who are great all-arounders, able to connect and inform guests simultaneously. But it’s not a given, and the easiest way to find out what the guides are like is to look for online reviews of specific tours. Past guests tend to mention the quality of guides in their reviews.

8. Join social media groups for different tour operators.

Social media groups can be a goldmine of information about tour companies and specific tours. Consider joining a few groups for different tour companies, and spend a bit of time reading through posts. This is another great spot to find information about the guides, as well as what activities and hotels are like, and even ask how to get a deal on certain tours.

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Groups like these are also a great way to meet people who may be looking at or have already booked the same tour date and company as you, so you can connect with them before your trip.

9. Consider responsible tourism.

Responsible tourism is a growing trend, especially among tour companies. Responsible tourism minimizes the negative effects of travel on the environment and local communities while maximizing the positive effects, and supports destinations in preserving what makes them special for generations to come.

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Many tour companies make it easy to find information about their sustainability efforts on their websites. Finding a company whose sustainability mission resonates with you can help you make sure you’re traveling with a group that works to preserve these amazing destinations. ( Note: In our tour company reviews , we include a section about sustainability efforts.)

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Europe Tours & Vacations

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

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

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Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

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

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

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

Do you need a visa to travel to Europe?

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

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

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

What is the internet access like in Europe?

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

Can I use my cell phone in Europe?

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

What are the toilets like in Europe?

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

Can I drink the water in Europe?

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

When should I book a tour in Europe?

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

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

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

How much does a Europe tour cost?

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

Is tipping common in Europe?

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

Are credit cards widely accepted in Europe?

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

What is ATM access like in Europe?

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

What currency will I need on a Europe tour?

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

Is Europe safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

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

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

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

Will I need a socket adapter for Europe?

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

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

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

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

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

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

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

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

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You don't need to be a historian to appreciate the significance of Athens. Your love affair with the city might begin with goddess Athena’s Parthenon temple and the ruins of Acropolis, but it’s likely to end in a quaint alleyway getting a glimpse at daily life in this ancient capital. The story of Athens continues to unfold.

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Discover the soul-stirring emotion of a Flamenco show in Spain. This expressive art-form has an intangible cultural heritage recognised by UNESCO, merging song, dance and musical instruments into a performance that has to be experienced at least once. Finish with dinner of paella or tapas to round off your perfect evening.

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Mother Nature’s wonders come to life with the Aurora Borealis or ‘Northern Lights’. In the frosty landscapes of Iceland, this light display offers viewers a genuine pinch-me moment as vivid colours dance across the night sky.

Spend a night at the opera in Vienna

Hear the talents of traditional opera with the ghosts of Mozart and Strauss in your presence. Though there are more than few places to catch the opera in Vienna, none can compare to the State Opera House (Staatsoper).

Our top 5 things to do in Europe & Britain

There are endless pinch-me moments to be found across the many countries that make up our Europe travel packages. But where to even begin? Perhaps a Flamenco show in Spain, afternoon tea in London or a Northern Lights viewing in frosty Iceland? Here are some of the highlights of our Europe and Britain trips that you're sure to love. 

Paris, France

The world’s largest gallery and the home of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Louvre is without rival in the art world and is a must see when in Paris. Allow an entire day to explore its eight departments, not missing the Egyptian antiquities, Islamic art and various halls of sculptures. End your day with sunset by the Louvre Pyramid.

London, England

The British Museum

With some eight million works within its permanent collection, The British Museum is an illustrious European landmark. Admire objects brought back from the voyages of Captain James Cook and walk in the controversial presence of the Parthenon Marbles.

Florence, Italy

Uffizi Gallery

The Tuscan capital is home to Uffizi Gallery, where the brushworks of art’s true masters can be found. Names like Raffaello, Leonardo, and Michelangelo fill Uffizi’s grand pink walls, whilst internal courtyards leading to the Arno River reveal the building’s architectural brilliance.

Best museums in Europe & Britain

When traveling Europe with Trafalgar, museum hopping is one of the best ways to understand the culture and history of the places you visit. You’ll find yourself critiquing ancient art and staring in awe at some of the world’s most prominent works. Here are some of our favorites.

Paella Valenciana

Saffron, snails, butterbeans and bomba rice are just some of the ingredients you might find in traditional Spanish paella. Despite originating from the coastal town of Valencia, Paella Valenciana is a variety without seafood. You'll love sitting back to enjoy a steaming plate over the sounds of Spanish jazz in a lively alfresco restaurant.

Beef Stroganoff

Now a staple dish in many parts of the world, beef stroganoff is best enjoyed in its birthplace in Russia with a vodka in hand. This simple dish of beef strips sauteed in a sour cream sauce offers a heart-warming taste of this country’s culinary heritage.

Bouillabaisse

The Mediterranean city of Marseille is where a French culinary icon can be found and devoured. The fragrant stew of bouillabaisse, commonly served with crusty white bread, boils up the finest local seafood and seasonal vegetables with the flavors of fennel, saffron and cayenne pepper.

Best food in Europe & Britain

Our trips to Europe gravitate around indulgent local mealtimes. With new cuisines and cooking methodologies found at every turn, this continent is simply delicious. 

What to pack for a tour in Europe

With such a large expanse of space to explore on a European travel tour, on some days, long journeys are unavoidable. The scenery will provide plenty of visual entertainment, while headphones can be used to listen to some local music or enjoy podcasts about European history, culture and politics when you're not enjoying the storytelling from your Travel Director.

A good book

Exploring Europe is best done at a relaxed pace with ample opportunity to absorb your surroundings. Dedicate a few days to sitting in a park or a cafe, alternating between reading and watching the world go by.

Versatile shoes

Within the space of one outing you may experience all kinds of terrain when in Europe. Pack shoes that can see you walking from an elegant restaurant to a cobbled footpath, with a stroll along the soft grass of a park in between.

A blank journal

With the wealth of inspiration tucked into every corner of Europe, you may find yourself compelled to write down notes or memories. At the very least to share recommendations with friends when you return home.

All climate clothing

No matter the time of year you travel, Europe can deliver a myriad of temperatures. From frosty cities of Scandinavia to the temperate hills of Portugal, layered clothing best suits the varying micro-climates across this continent.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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Europe Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ europe tours for singles / solo travelers with 76,520 reviews.

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Europe Escape

The trip was an absolute great taste of several Western European countries. Overall, the accomodations and meals were favorable.

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

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European Horizon (Start London, End London, 11 Days)

Amazing, Remi has the best recommendations for every place we visited.

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

European Discovery (Summer, Start Amsterdam, Classic, 12 Days)

Couldn't recommend this the European Discovery Tour enough!! It definitely is fast pace but the Bus rides help to break it up.

Europe Jewel

It was, as expected, a busy, non stop tour to beautiful cities and countryside in Europe.

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The Great Adventure

Israel was an amazing guide. My only critique would be how I was shuffled into other tours but with different timetables.

European Delight

Excellent tour that covered pretty much all the hotspots along the way. Most of the coaches did not have usb charging points.

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European Highlights Escape - 12 Days

We enjoyed the lively city of Athens and beautiful Santorini. Everything was organised perfect by Dot Travel Greece.

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 10 days from Palermo 2024

The tour guides with rich knowledge of the attractions, we learned a lot from them; and we tasted lots of typical Sicilian dishes and they were delicious.

Best of Ireland and Scotland (15 Days)

This made our experience wonderful. He went above and beyond.

Essential Britain & Ireland

Everything was planned and organised professionally. Absolutely hassle free travelling.

What people love about Europe Solo Tours

Great experience. Very fun.

I absolutely loved being able to go on my trip. I got to meet so many like-minded people on it and do so much more than I ever imagined possible in 11 days!

I had an amazing experience touring Europe with Rianna. She was organised, fun, creative and knowledgeable. I learned lots from Ri but also had a lot of laughs. The trip experience was fast paced and could have been chaotic but with Ri's guidance and travel expertise it flowed seamlessly. 10/10

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THIS IS WHAT AWAITS IN EUROPE

Towering castles. Untamed natural beauty. Captivating history. Can’t-miss cuisine. This is your time, your moment, your chance to discover Europe.

Destination Must-Sees

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the “Valley of the Gods.” Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B. Step into history when you walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium or witness amazing sculptures at the museum.

France’s romantic capital is a must-see destination, and a gorgeous gateway to the wonders the rest of this country has to offer. Whether your ideal Parisian getaway has you spending some free time sipping coffee at a café and watching the bustling city life, roaming the halls of art at the Louvre, or exploring the bohemian artist’s haven — the Montmartre neighborhood, there’s rich history and culture abound in every corner of the City of Light.

Irish countryside:

Take in the atmosphere of quaint seaside villages, see awe inspiring views of the Lakes of Killarney and explore the picturesque town of Kinsale. Wherever you travel in the countryside, you’ll find that the rolling hills and friendly people you encounter will become a part of your fabric.

Ancient cities of Italy:

Italy is positively brimming with the world’s most famous Roman ruins like the Colosseum, Pompeii and many other relics from the ancient past. In fact, many cities in Italy still hold evidence of what once was. You can find an aqueduct, city gate, Roman theater or the ruins of an entire city there.

Destination Must-Dos

Meteora Monastery:

Over 600 years ago Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community atop limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air, making them virtually inaccessible. It is one of the greatest monuments in the world, and is the most important monastic center in Greece. You can climb these rocks and travel the paths hidden behind the massive rocks.

The Palace of Versailles

The iconic Palace of Versailles (UNESCO) and its gardens reflect the extravagant tastes of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King." Alongside a local guide, learn the history and admire the various rooms of the State Apartments, including the Queen's bedchamber and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Be sure to explore the incredible gardens, some of the most famous in the world, which took over 40 years to complete and include intricate architecture, elaborate fountains, and gorgeous statues.

Drift down a canal:

While canals are found across Europe, nothing beats a romantic gondola ride in Venice. Locals like to say the best way to explore the city is to ‘get lost.’ So take a ride along these waterways, step off and then wind your way through the intricate blend of bridges, narrow streets and grand squares.

This was the first capital of Spain located about 43 miles south of Madrid. The history of Toledo dates back to the Roman occupation circa 192 B.C. The old city of Toledo sits atop of a small mountain surrounded on three sides by the Tagus River, and medieval walls on the fourth. From the top of the mountain you can get a 180 degree view of the surrounding landscape.

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Magnificent landscapes combined with the country’s charming traditions and customs offer new experiences unlike anywhere else in the world. Famous for bullfighting, Spain allows you to grab life by the horns and dive into adventure. Whether it’s the eye-catching architecture of Madrid, the bold Spanish wines, or the shimmering Costa del Sol, this country remains a delight to the senses. Once you experience Spain, you’ll never want to leave and when you do, you’ll always be craving more.

Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!

A rendezvous with a magnifique experience awaits! As cliché as it sounds, France truly has something for everyone. With over two dozen cities, each with their own nuances of the French culture and contributions to its history, architecture, art and last but not least, the gastronomical delights that the French are famous for throughout the world are yours to explore, experience and fall in love with during your stay. Coast to coast, border to border, there are seemingly endless variations on your French experience to be had. Rolling hills and scenic valleys lined with the fruit of the gods; seaside towns, along sandy beaches with views you just might be sharing with royalty; or maybe snowcapped mountain ranges providing some of the best skiing in the world and an adrenaline rush to match is what you seek. Whatever you decide, France easily makes you feel as if you have stepped out of reality and into the art you learned about and loved since you were a child.

A gem of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is a paradise. On the coasts, sun-soaked beaches meet breathtaking hillside towns all down the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. In the cities, ancient structures rise up shoulder-to-shoulder with modern living. Everywhere you turn, you can find mouth-watering food paired with delicious local wines, medieval architecture paired with Moorish artistic influence, and friendly locals paired with charming attitudes. No matter what you seek, when you go, where you look, or how long you stay, Portugal offers something for every traveler.

At the heart of Europe, monumental contemporary and historic events shape today’s Germany. From the fall of the Berlin Wall to the rise of the Beatles in Hamburg, the culture of the country is marked by its influential past and present. Imagine yourself exploring postcard-worthy castles such as Neuschwanstein or wandering through medieval cities such as Regensburg. From the Bavarian Alps to the Rhine Gorge to the plains of the north, the range of Germany’s landscapes will capture your heart. Perhaps you’ll also indulge your taste buds as you sample the delicious Marzipan sweet treats of the Hanseatic port of Lubeck, which have been produced there for over 200 years. Whether on a journey on the ‘Romantic Road’ or cruising along the Rhine, know that a stein of German beer or a glass of wine from the Rhine vineyards are both a worthy compliment to a destination that offers far more than the average traveler anticipates.

Switzerland

Incredible skiing on the Swiss Alps and delectable Swiss chocolate are only two reasons for visiting Switzerland. Located between Austria, France, Germany and Italy, you can get quite a diverse European cultural experience depending on which region of Switzerland you choose. And though the food, music, art and people themselves are very much influenced by their European neighbors, they are all still uniquely Swiss. You will leave with plenty of memories to savor for a lifetime.

From the coasts of the Mediterranean to the top of Mount Olympus, Greece is a place grand enough for mythical gods and friendly enough for travelers alike. Uncover its ancient ruins and relics and take in an iconic landscape of whitewashed homes. This is only the beginning of the endless wonders you’ll find when you first set foot on Greek soil.

With its natural beauty, historical assets, location along one of the most important trade routes established decades ago and a diverse and welcoming population, Turkey just might rank in your top 10 list of places you never thought would go but were oh so glad you did! Where can you explore the most archaeological sites in the world where civilizations, empires and historic figures were born – Turkey. Where will you be able to sample the taste sensations created by the fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines – Turkey. Where are you able to experience some of the best sailing, hiking, mountain trekking, windsurfing and golf in Europe – Turkey. Best of all, where will you wake up to find something new and amazing every day then go to sleep after viewing some of the most incredible sunsets that by whatever you name you choose, there truly must be a God - Turkey.

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