Ultimate Europe

Ultimate Europe

14K Views
26 Days From

$6080

$3995

Ultimate Europe

26 Days Starting and ending in Hotel in Amsterdam

Visiting: Amsterdam, Berlin, Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Prague, Bratislava, Vienna, Ljubljana, Venice, Rome, Florence, Tuscany, Pisa, Eze, Monaco, Nice, Arles, Barcelona, Sète, Pont du Gard, Avignon, Geneva, Swiss Alps, Swiss Alps, Vaduz, Munich, Bavaria, Rhine Valley, Luxembourg, Paris, Paris, Ghent

Tour operator:

Expat Explore Travel

Tour code:

EU

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

10 - 51

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

10-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $6080 $3995 Operator discount: -$2085 -34%

NB: Prices correct on 22-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Immerse yourself in the culture and history of Europe on this Ultimate Europe tour that spans 14 countries over 26 days! Discover France, Italy, Switzerland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Monaco, Germany, and more. From traditional clog-making in the Netherlands to the history of Rome, Venice, and Florence, delve into European wonders with almost four full weeks of discovery! Traverse the French Riviera, stroll Barcelona's Gaudí trail, and visit the tiny counties of Liechtenstein and Luxembourg. With ample free time for exploration, this tour showcases the essence of European travel at its finest!

Highlights

  • Enjoy three nights in Barcelona and Rome for in-depth exploration

  • Free days to explore Prague, Paris, the Swiss Alps, Venice, Amsterdam, and Berlin

  • Walking tours with a local guide in Rome, Prague, Vienna, Ljubljana, and Florence

  • Explore Pisa, Monaco, Bratislava, Luxembourg, and Liechtenstein

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Of Tour In Amsterdam

Location: Amsterdam

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to your 26-day Ultimate Europe tour! This morning, check into the hotel before making a stop at a local farm for a traditional cheese and clog-making demonstration. Next, explore the charming fishing village of Volendam and enjoy free time for lunch. Then, discover the picturesque neighbourhood of Zaanse Schans for a glimpse of classic Dutch scenery. Afterwards, return to Amsterdam for a canal cruise and see the city’s top sights from the water. This evening, indulge in a welcome dinner with the group. Rest up for tomorrow's free day in Amsterdam, as it promises to be brimming with adventures!

  • Enjoy a traditional Dutch cheese and clog-making demonstration

  • Visit Volendam; a beautiful fishing village

  • Visit Zaanse Schans; famous for its classic Dutch scenery

  • Cruise along Amsterdam’s iconic canals

Day 2: Amsterdam (Free Day)

Location: Amsterdam

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embrace Amsterdam's charm with a full day of exploration, by foot or by bike, it's your choice! Spend the day in the city wandering through famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum, meander through the flower market, or unwind in one of the parks. For art enthusiasts, the MOCO Museum is a must-visit as it houses contemporary art from renowned artists such as Banksy, Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, and much more! End the day by joining the optional Dutch Pancake Soiree!

Day 3: Amsterdam - Berlin

Location: Amsterdam, Berlin

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Continue to Germany today and enjoy the scenic countryside views on your coach journey to Berlin, the vibrant capital brimming with history and energy! From its tumultuous past, Berlin has emerged as a beacon of positivity, offering an array of historic landmarks, museums, cultural hubs, and nightlife to explore. Look forward to discovering the city’s remnants of the Cold War alongside modern marvels during tomorrow's free day. Arrive in Berlin in the late afternoon and embark on a walking and driving tour to take in the city’s views before enjoying a lively dinner at a beer hall this evening.

  • See Berlin’s top sights on a driving tour

  • Say“prost”and enjoy dinner in a German beer hall

Day 4: Berlin: Free Day

Location: Berlin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Berlin is yours to explore today! Visit the city’s iconic sites such as the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, Alexanderplatz, the Reichstag, and Checkpoint Charlie. Opt for the Berlin+ excursion to discover this vibrant city with your tour leader and see the East Side Gallery, visit the Museum in the Kulturbrauerei, and explore the hidden sites of Hackescher Markt. Don’t miss the chance to taste traditional currywurst and view the city from the iconic Berlin TV Tower! This evening, join the Berlin Food Tour optional excursion and take the opportunity to immerse yourself in Berlin’s charm and culinary highlights in the artsy Kreuzberg neighbourhood.

Day 5: Dresden - Prague

Location: Dresden, Prague

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Bid farewell to Berlin and journey to the Czech Republic today! En route, make a stop in Dresden, a historic German town. After being meticulously rebuilt after the damage of WW2, the city has been reborn and today it stands as an immaculate and stylish German city. Enjoy free time exploring Dresden's charm and indulge in local bratwurst before continuing eastward to the Czech Republic. Arrive in Prague and set off on a walking tour with a local guide. Discover iconic landmarks like Charles Bridge and Old Town Square. Tonight, sample authentic Czech cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Visit Dresden; a German city rebuilt after WW2 bombings

  • Discover Prague with a local guide

  • Taste authentic Czech cuisine in Prague

Day 6: Prague: Free Day

Location: Prague

Meals Included: Breakfast

Unveil Prague’s magic during a free day in the city today! From historic castles to picturesque bridges, the city exudes both wisdom and youthful vigour. Join the Prague+ tour to see more of the city. Enjoy a scenic river cruise with lunch and a guided tour of the Prague Castle. Alternatively, venture solo to iconic spots like the Clock Tower, Lennon Wall, or Wenceslas Square. Immerse yourself in the Mala Strana district or Jewish Quarter, and savour Czech brews andtrdelnikat a local beer house. End the day with the Traditional Czech Folk Evening optional for an evening of folk music and dancing!

Day 7: Bratislava - Vienna

Location: Bratislava, Vienna

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The European adventures continue today with a visit to the capital city of Slovakia, Bratislava! Enjoy an orientation tour of the old town and free time to explore at your own pace before journeying to the next destination, Vienna, Austria. Known as the “City of Music”, this city is famed for being home to great composers such as Beethoven and Mozart! Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour to discover the UNESCO-listed city centre, Golden Mile, Imperial Castle, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Admire the impressive architecture and unique cultural heritage of this captivating city before enjoying an included dinner with the group tonight. After, choose to experience a classical music concert.

  • Embark on an orientation tour of Bratislava

  • Explore Vienna with a local guide

  • Enjoy dinner in a Viennese wine cellar

Day 8: Ljubljana - Venice

Location: Ljubljana, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Say goodbye to Austria this morning and travel to Slovenia's fairytale capital, Ljubljana. Upon arrival, discover this picturesque city with charming bridges, a hilltop castle, and stunning Baroque, Gothic, and medieval architecture on a guided walking tour. Then, cross the border into Italy, and marvel at the breathtaking scenery en route to Venice. Experience the allure of the "floating city", renowned for its canals, gondolas, and traditional crafts of glass-blowing and lace-making before unwinding at the hotel or a nearby restaurant. For an enchanting end to the evening, consider joining the "Venice by Night" optional excursion.

  • Discover the magic of Ljubljana with a local guide

Day 9: Venice: Free Day

Location: Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Look forward to a full free day in Venice! See highlights such as the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, and the Grand Canal as you explore on your own. Alternatively, join the optional excursion to the colourful islands of Murano and Burano to witness how Venetian lace is made and watch traditional glass-blowing in action. Why not end the day with an optional gondola ride through Venice's enchanting waterways? This is the quintessential way to see Venice!

  • Experience the magic of Venice

Day 10: Venice - Rome

Location: Venice, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Swap Venice's charm for Rome's grandeur as the tour continues with the Italian leg today! Enjoy a scenic drive through the Italian countryside before arriving in Rome, the Italian capital. Embrace Rome’s vibrant energy and delve into the city's history on an evening walking tour with a local guide. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Roman Forum, and the majestic Colosseum. End the day with an included dinner, savouring the flavours of Italy with your fellow travellers.

  • Enjoy a guided walking tour of Rome

  • Enjoy dinner in Rome

Day 11: Rome: Free Day

Location: Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rome is yours to explore today! Take advantage of this free day in the “Eternal City” to delve further into its rich culture and history. Continue exploring the city’s historic attractions and ancient sights at leisure or venture to Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, to visit the pope’s official residence. Here, you can discover its museums, galleries, and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo's masterpiece!Bellissimo!

Day 12: Rome: Free Day

Location: Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

Indulge in another free day in Rome! Continue wandering through the historical streets of the city and its surroundings finding hidden gems. Embrace the Italian tradition ofdolce far nienteor “sweet idleness”, and savour the leisurely pace of life. Tonight, treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a local trattoria.

Day 13: Rome - Florence - Tuscany

Location: Rome, Florence, Tuscany

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy the last breakfast in Rome before departing for Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region! Upon arrival, immerse yourself in this Renaissance gem on a tour of the city led by a local guide. Explore Florence's rich heritage, marvelling at iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, and a replica of Michelangelo's statue of David. After the tour, delve into the artistry of Italian leather with a demonstration at a local workshop. This evening, indulge in the Taste of Tuscany optional experience before retiring to the accommodation in Montecatini Terme, nestled in the scenic Tuscan hills, for the night.

  • Discover Florence with a local guide

  • Watch a leather-making demonstration

Day 14: Pisa - Eze - Monaco - Nice

Location: Pisa, Eze, Monaco, Nice

Meals Included: Breakfast

France is calling! But before sayingbonjourto the next country, pause for a photo opportunity at Italy's iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. This UNESCO Site attracts countless visitors annually, all eager to capture a snapshot with this famous landmark. Take in the final glimpses of the Italian countryside before crossing into the South of France. Welcome to the French Riviera! Visit the charming coastal town of Eze and enjoy a perfume workshop before travelling to Monaco. Here, enjoy a guided tour and discover this tiny principality’s grandeur. Tick off highlights including the Prince’s Palace and the famous Monte Carlo! Arrive in Nice, dive into an orientation tour and relish some free time in this splendid French city tonight!

  • Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa; an iconic Italian landmark

  • Enjoy a perfume workshop in Eze

  • Experience the glitz and glamour of Monaco

Day 15: Nice: Free Day

Location: Nice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Indulge in the opulence of the French Riviera today! After breakfast, enjoy an orientation tour of Nice with your tour leader and explore the sights and attractions that make Nice a widely popular city on the French Riviera. Nice has plenty on offer for travellers, from a lively atmosphere and delectable cuisine to stunning beaches! Meander on the iconic Promenade des Anglais to spot top sights like the Avenue Jean Médecin, the Fontaine du Soleil, Jardin Albert I and more! Explore at leisure for the rest of the day. Make the most of your time in Nice by joining the Exquisite Nice optional excursion, including a guided tour of the Old Town, stunning scenery and delectable local cuisine!

  • Visit Nice; a gorgeous French coastal city

Day 16: Arles - Barcelona

Location: Arles, Barcelona

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Barcelona beckons today! Along the way, make a stop in the charming town of Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historic architecture and connections with artists like Van Gogh. Then, continue travelling to the captivating capital of Catalonia. Upon arrival in Barcelona, take a scenic driving tour to catch glimpses of iconic landmarks such as La Sagrada Família and Las Ramblas, marking places to explore further on your upcoming free day. Later, head to the hotel for the next few nights, check in, and gather for an included group dinner to kick off your stay in Barcelona!

  • Visit Arles; a city that inspired many of Van Gogh’s paintings

  • Explore Barcelona’s top sights on a driving tour

Day 17: Barcelona: Free Day

Location: Barcelona

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is forfiestas, tapas, and embracing all things Barcelona! Enjoy the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. Wander through Barcelona's streets and marvel at more of Gaudí's whimsical architectural wonders like Park Guell and Casa Batllo. Take a leisurely stroll along Las Ramblas, where vibrant market stalls, street performers, and cosy cafés await. Alternatively, venture beyond the city limits and join the Montserrat optional experience, journeying to a mountain monastery north of Barcelona for a day of exploration. Don't forget to indulge in some delectable Spanish tapas and share the experience with your fellow travellers this evening. With so much to see and do, Barcelona promises an unforgettable adventure!

Day 18: Barcelona: Free Day

Location: Barcelona

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hola!Get ready for another free day to uncover Barcelona as you wish. Dive into the city's rich history and culture by exploring museums and art galleries in its historic centres. Indulge in some retail therapy at Europe's finest shopping destinations. Football fans can visit Camp Nou, home of Barcelona FC. Relax on Barcelona's picturesque beaches or set sail on a tour along the stunning coastline. For a deeper dive into the city, consider joining your tour leader for the Highlights of Barcelona optional excursion, featuring the iconic Sagrada Família. Tonight, immerse yourself in Spanish culture with the optional Flamenco show and dinner excursion — a vibrant display of passion, energy, and authenticfiestaspirit that you won't want to miss!

Day 19: Barcelona - Sète - Pont Du Gard - Avignon

Location: Barcelona, Sète, Pont du Gard, Avignon

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, sayadiosto Barcelona as the tour travels back to France! Enjoy a trip through the picturesque French countryside with stops in Sète, nestled on the coast, and at the awe-inspiring Pont du Gard. This historic aqueduct, constructed by Ancient Rome in the first century AD, stands as a testament to ancient engineering prowess, dating back over 2,000 years. Next, arrive in Avignon, affectionately known as the "City of Popes" and delve into its rich history on an orientation tour. During the tour, admire its well-preserved architecture and fortifications, including the iconic Papal Palace and other significant religious landmarks. Tonight, enjoy an included group dinner and embrace the opportunity to explore Avignon at your own pace!

  • Visit Sète in the South of France

  • See the Pont du Gard; an Ancient Roman aqueduct

  • Explore Avignon; known as ‘The City of Popes’

Day 20: Geneva - Swiss Alps

Location: Geneva, Swiss Alps

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The tour makes its way to Switzerland today for some Swiss bliss! Journey towards the majestic Swiss Alps, with a delightful stopover in Geneva along the way. This vibrant city is home to the United Nations and Red Cross headquarters and offers picturesque vistas of Lake Geneva. Take advantage of free time here for lunch before continuing to the Swiss Alps region. Admire the breathtaking mountain landscapes aboard the coach, where every turn reveals stunning vistas of forests, alpine lakes, and rugged peaks. Arrive in the Swiss mountain village and check into the hotel. Tonight, enjoy a hearty Swiss dinner, followed by an opportunity to explore the village at leisure. Rest up for more mountain escapades awaiting you tomorrow!

  • Visit Geneva and see spectacular Lake Geneva

  • Enjoy a scenic Swiss mountain drive

Day 21: Swiss Alps: Free Day

Location: Swiss Alps

Meals Included: Breakfast

Get set for a fun-filled day in the Swiss Alps! Join the top-rated “Jungfraujoch: Journey to the Top of Europe” optional excursion for year-round snow, and unforgettable memories. Enjoy a trip to the highest train station in Europe with breathtaking vistas at every turn, and be sure to have your cameras handy to capture the awe-inspiring mountain scenery. Alternatively, for those preferring lower altitudes, venture into a local village to gain insight into the Swiss way of life. End the day with another delicious meal by joining the optional Swiss fondue dinner tonight!

Day 22: Vaduz - Munich - Bavaria

Location: Vaduz, Munich, Bavaria

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Take in the final Alpine vistas before bidding Switzerland adieu today! This morning, the tour sets course for Germany, with a stopover in the charming principality of Liechtenstein. Explore Vaduz, its capital city, where you can grab a bite to eat, shop for souvenirs, and see the iconic Vaduz Castle, the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein. Next, continue to Bavaria's capital, the home of Oktoberfest. Arrive in Munich and set off on an orientation tour of the city. Tonight, enjoy a traditional German beer hall dinner and raise a toast with local beers. After a day brimming with adventure, retire to your hotel in Bavaria for a restful night.

  • Visit Vaduz; capital of Liechtenstein

  • Discover Munich; the capital of Bavaria

  • Enjoy dinner at a traditional German beer hall

Day 23: Bavaria - Rhine Valley

Location: Bavaria, Rhine Valley

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Embark on a scenic journey to Germany's picturesque Rhine Valley this morning. Arrive and step aboard a riverboat for a sightseeing cruise along the Rhine River. Admire the breathtaking views which include green vineyards, towering cliffs, medieval towns, and Europe's most concentrated stretch of Gothic castles! Back on the mainland, venture to a local wine merchant for an included wine tasting. If the harvest has been good, you might even have the chance to sampleeiswein(ice wine)! Tonight, enjoy an included dinner with the group in the Rhine Valley.

  • Cruise down the Rhine River

  • Enjoy a German wine tasting in the Rhine Valley

Day 24: Luxembourg - Paris

Location: Luxembourg, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

As the tour says “Auf WiedersehenGermany”, it makes its way to France once more! En route to Paris, make a stop in Luxembourg, one of Europe's smallest countries, before continuing to the enchanting "City of Lights". Arrive in Paris and embark on a driving tour to see some of the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the restored Notre Dame Cathedral. After the driving tour, enjoy an included group dinner in the city, savouring the delectable flavours of French cuisine! Finally, retire to your hotel after a day filled with delicious meals and captivating adventures.

  • Visit Luxembourg; a tiny European country

  • See the highlights of Paris on a driving tour

Day 25: Paris: Free Day

Location: Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embrace the Parisian delights on this free day in Paris! Famous for its culture, fashion, and art, today presents the opportunity to take it all in! Join the optional Paris+ tour for a scenic cruise along the River Seine and panoramic views from Montparnasse Tower. Alternatively, explore on your own! Ascend the iconic Eiffel Tower, wander through the Louvre, or venture to the grandeur of Versailles. Delight your taste buds with French delicacies like macarons, croissants, or even frog legs andescargot! Complete the Parisian experience with a glass of French wine. This evening, consider joining an optional excursion to explore the romantic streets of Montmartre with a local guide, followed by an optional cabaret show.

Day 26: Paris - Ghent - Amsterdam

Location: Paris, Ghent, Amsterdam

Meals Included: Breakfast

As the tour draws to a close after 26 remarkable days spanning 14 countries, enjoy the remaining glimpses of the French countryside as the tour travels back to Amsterdam. Along the way, pause in Belgium to check off the last country of the tour on your travel list! Discover the medieval allure of Ghent on an orientation tour and enjoy free time for lunch. Finally, arrive back in Amsterdam, marking the end of your unforgettable Ultimate European Adventure!

  • Visit Ghent, a picturesque Belgian city

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    25 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
    Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)

  • Transport

    Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
    Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

  • Meals

    25 Breakfasts, 11 Dinners
    *Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

  • Tour Leader

    Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
    Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

What's Not Included

International flightsTravel to the start point and from the end point is not included. We recommend using Skyscanner to find the best deals on international flights.Travel insuranceFor a relatively small price, travel insurance provides you with peace of mind so that you can enjoy your tour without any worries.



All passengers travelling on an Expat Explore tour are required to have valid travel insurance cover and you are responsible for arranging your own insurance.

Mode of Transport

  • Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard

  • Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

Accommodation

  • 25 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms

  • Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)

Traveller Comfort - *COACH* tours

We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.


Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.


Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.


We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.


For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.


With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.


For more information regarding traveller fitness please see our Terms and Conditions.

Experiences

  • Enjoy a traditional Dutch cheese and clog-making demonstration

  • Visit Volendam; a beautiful fishing village

  • Visit Zaanse Schans; famous for its classic Dutch scenery

  • Cruise along Amsterdam’s iconic canals

  • See Berlin’s top sights on a driving tour

  • Say“prost”and enjoy dinner in a German beer hall

  • Visit Dresden; a German city rebuilt after WW2 bombings

  • Discover Prague with a local guide

  • Taste authentic Czech cuisine in Prague

  • Embark on an orientation tour of Bratislava

  • Explore Vienna with a local guide

  • Enjoy dinner in a Viennese wine cellar

  • Discover the magic of Ljubljana with a local guide

  • Experience the magic of Venice

  • Enjoy a guided walking tour of Rome

  • Enjoy dinner in Rome

  • Discover Florence with a local guide

  • Watch a leather-making demonstration

  • Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa; an iconic Italian landmark

  • Enjoy a perfume workshop in Eze

  • Experience the glitz and glamour of Monaco

  • Visit Nice; a gorgeous French coastal city

  • Visit Arles; a city that inspired many of Van Gogh’s paintings

  • Explore Barcelona’s top sights on a driving tour

  • Visit Sète in the South of France

  • See the Pont du Gard; an Ancient Roman aqueduct

  • Explore Avignon; known as ‘The City of Popes’

  • Visit Geneva and see spectacular Lake Geneva

  • Enjoy a scenic Swiss mountain drive

  • Visit Vaduz; capital of Liechtenstein

  • Discover Munich; the capital of Bavaria

  • Enjoy dinner at a traditional German beer hall

  • Cruise down the Rhine River

  • Enjoy a German wine tasting in the Rhine Valley

  • Visit Luxembourg; a tiny European country

  • See the highlights of Paris on a driving tour

  • Visit Ghent, a picturesque Belgian city

Check out our Q&As

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point for the first day of your tour. Please see the meeting point information for details on how to reach the meeting point.

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    No, entrance fees are not included.

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    No, visas are each traveler’s personal responsibility, and we recommend that plenty of time is allowed for visas to be applied for. When applying for your visa, please ensure that the proper research is carried out before you apply, and that you deal directly with the embassies or certified agents with regard to acquiring correct and timely information. We cannot take responsibility for customers

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Our tours are not suitable for young children, so we set a minimum age limit of 10 years old.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting destination for the first day of your tour. Make sure you keep departure times and possible delays in mind when booking flights.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    All our tours are conducted in English.

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    We are committed to curating excellent travel experiences and to do so we need all of our travelers to feel safe.

    In order to ensure the peace of mind and safety of our travelers and staff on board the coach, we are still requesting that all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, produce a negative Covid test. This test can be a PCR test

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    Certain nationalities may require a visa(s) for this tour.

  • Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?

    All of the hotels on this tour offer Wi-Fi, which is available free of charge as part of your Expat Explore tour.

  • Is the tour coach air conditioned?

    Yes, Full air-conditioning

  • Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

    Due to weight and space limitations, you are allowed to bring one main piece of luggage weighing no more than 20kg, and one small soft bag for hand luggage weighing a maximum of 7kg. On all tours, you will have to carry your own luggage (e.g. into hotels and up to your room if hotels don’t have elevators). Please bear this in mind when you are deciding what to pack

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our customer services team. Please note that the room provided may be a single room with a single bed.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    Yes, As detailed in the itinerary

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    All travellers are required to carry their own bags, get on and off the coach, and use public transport. Our city walking tours can last up to 3 hours and certain places involve walking up and down lots of steps. We want you to enjoy your tour, so read through the itinerary thoroughly and make your own conclusions as to whether you feel that you are fit and healthy enough.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    It depends on how many other people book! There could be up to 51 other passengers, so you will have the opportunity to make lots of friends!

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    We have searched and invested in excellent accommodation options, either located in cities or well placed with public transport connections. Clean linen, towels is always included. Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel etc) and hair dryers are not always included, so you may wish to bring these with you. Accommodation is provided in twin share en-suite rooms. We use a mix of mostly 2, 3 & 4-star hotels.

  • What is the tipping policy?

    Whilst we fully understand that some nationalities are not accustomed to tipping, this is a normal part of the culture in many of the countries we visit. Tipping has become an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis worldwide. Expat Explore crew members

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    A full list of confirmed accommodation names and addresses for your particular departure will be emailed to you around 1 week before the tour starts.

  • Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

    Our travelers come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests.

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Our tour leaders come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests. They are all confident and well-travelled with an in-depth knowledge of the destinations they are working in, and a passion for helping you make the most out of your Expat Explore tour.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge - you will share a twin room with another passenger of the same gender. There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our team.

  • Children on tour?

    Our tours are not suitable for young children which is why we have a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email. Minors (between 10 and 18 years of age) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts full responsibility for them. Unaccompanied minors will not be accepted on tour. Expat Explore reserves the right to decline any booking at our discretion. Any minor (between 10 and 18 years of age) is priced the same as an adult.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    The health and safety of our travellers and employees are our top priority. Which means, when you travel with us, our enhanced hygiene protocols will ensure you do so in a safe and responsible way - ask for details of current policies.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 2005

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Expat Explore we value responsible travel and are committed to exploring the world consciously and kindly. We are proud to make responsible travel possible with a number of our sustainable travel practices!

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    Relate is a South African based not-for-profit organisation that Expat Explore supports. The group aims to help those less fortunate create better lives for themselves through a variety of fundraising initiatives. On our South Africa tours, each passenger will receive an Expat Explore branded Relate bracelet. We donate the cost of these bracelets to our chosen Relate charity: the Nelson Mandela Sc

Reviews of this operator

ANTHONY NDUNGU   ITALY

Balkan Explorer - 16 Days

03-Sep-2024

I had a blast!!!! Simply amazing and would highly recommend.

Roger  

Wonderful new addition

19-Oct-2022

Great new country and addition by Expat. One of the most interesting and beautiful countries I've ever been. Great food, scenery and lovely people.

Jamie the Kingslayer  

Everything I had expected and more

01-Oct-2022

It was my first time traveling to Europe so I was nervous about everything including finding my way around, speaking the languages, and finding lodging. It turned out to be an incredible experience, I couldn't ask for a better your guide. Luke truly is the best in the business and we were so lucky o have him on the last tour of the season. I am definitely going to recommend Expat to my family and friends when they want to travel to Europe. I am going to go as far as finding out when Luke will be the guide and have family/friends specifically book the tour with him.

Randy  

Outstanding!

25-Sep-2022

From orientation to farewell dinner Martina was always there to ensure that everyone was happy and enjoying the tour! It was fast paced, especially with the added excursions, but the tour covered the best of Italy and Martina was absolutely the best. She was entertaining and informative. Look forward to another tour with her!!

Emma  

Perfect combination of sites, history, culture and food

19-Oct-2022

The highlights of Japan tour with Expat Explore was the ideal way to see the country. It had the perfect mix of big cities, small quaint villages, historical sites and food! The tour was well organised and a good pace to enjoy the various places and activities. We had the opportunity to be immersed in local culture and try the cuisine in a range of dining experiences. The hotels were clean and roomy to rest for days filled with adventures. Japan with Expat should be on your wish list!

CCY  

Good experience

07-Oct-2022

Enjoyed the views of different places and learnt about the history of different places in UK/Ireland.

Kendra Olson   United States

Classic Europe - 14 Days

03-Apr-2024

Such a great trip and saw so many places, if we did this trip on our own I think we would only get half of what we did done in this time period. It definitely was busy with not much down time but we didn’t pay to go be bored. Beautiful and memorable trip!

Travelling Solo  

12 Day Italian Delights

18-Oct-2022

A great tour made even better by our tour leader Marty. She was so knowledgeable and helpful. Made us laugh, showed us amazing sites and always had great recommendations.

Tash  

Really nice experience

26-Oct-2022

Loved the small country towns. Very beautiful MARTY AND ALEX THE DRIVER , made the tour experience perfect for me. She is a brilliant guide.

Disappointed  

Totally exhausted

05-Oct-2022

I need a holiday to recover from this full-on, insufficient down time, tour. Late hotel arrivals, late city tours, late dinners and excessive walking due to public transport use and then early morning starts. And to top it off, no seat rotation (tour leader advised on day 2 for covid reasons) which made sense on day 2 but not by day 3 or 4 when we had been grouped together at meals, on walking tours, and sharing rooms with people we had just met...merrily spreading our germs between our group anyway! This seating rule however was waived for a special few...those who insisted that they get travel sickness (and must sit in the front seat) and..those who think the rule is not for them and aren't challenged by the tour leader anyway. No seat rotation also meant not getting the opportunity to get to know everyone on the tour on an equal basis.

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Friday

Apr 07, 2025 - May 02, 2025
$6080 $3995

Operator discount: -$2085

Monday - Friday

May 05, 2025 - May 30, 2025
$6080 $4475

Operator discount: -$1605

Monday - Friday

Jun 02, 2025 - Jun 27, 2025
$6080 $4475

Operator discount: -$1605

Monday - Friday

Jun 30, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025
$6080 $4475

Operator discount: -$1605

Monday - Friday

Jul 28, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025
$6080 $4475

Operator discount: -$1605

Monday - Friday

Aug 25, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025
$6080 $4905

Operator discount: -$1175

Monday - Friday

Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
$6080 $4655

Operator discount: -$1425

Monday - Friday

Oct 20, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
$6080 $4655

Operator discount: -$1425

Monday - Friday

Apr 06, 2026 - May 01, 2026
$6080 $4265

Operator discount: -$1815

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Expat Explore Travel allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 76 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Expat Explore Travel requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of expat explore travel charges.

    Up to 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 44 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.