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Douro Valley, Portugal

Europe tour ideas

Douro Valley, Portugal

These tour ideas are designed by our specialists, who've traveled the routes themselves and have a guidebook-like knowledge of Europe. Each trip idea highlights a route we've loved traveling, which showcases aspects of Europe we're passionate about, not just the run-of-the-mill tourist circuits.

Use these ideas to give you a starting point, some inspiration, as you decide what you want to do on your trip to Europe. Then speak to us and we'll start to bring your trip to life to suit your tastes.

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Audley Travel Country Specialist Samantha

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Ideas for your trip to Europe

These itineraries are designed to give you some suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Europe, and they showcase some of the routes that we've found work particularly well. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely for you by one of our specialists based on your particular tastes and interests.

Europe tour ideas

Europe tour ideas

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Europe tour ideas

Europe tour ideas

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Summary  |  Detail
  • Local houses, Nafplio

    Athens & Nafplio

    Greece
    • Soak up the history of ancient Athens and the modern Acropolis Museum on a private tour.

    • Kayak to a deserted beach for a swim and snorkel.

    • Visit the pretty, traffic-free island of Hydra.

    • Explore the ancient ruins and beehive tombs at Mycenae archaeological site.

    • Enjoy the freedom of a rental car to explore the Peloponnese.

    7 days from $3,675pp

  • Oviedo Cathedral, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain

    Northern Spain on foot: Camino de Santiago

    Spain
    • Explore the stunning Romanesque church of Oviedo and its treasury, imagining the echoes of pilgrims past on a private tour.

    • Lace up your boots and embark on an immersive five-day walk from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela.

    • Enjoy a private walking tour through Santiago de Compostela’s rich history, including a tour of the iconic Cathedral de Santiago.

    • Wander through Santiago de Compostela’s charming tavernas with your private guide, savouring local dishes and Albariño wine.

    10 days from $4,775pp

  • Tram and cityscape, Lisbon

    Highlights of Lisbon, Marrakesh and the High Atlas Mountains

    Morocco and Portugal
    • Experience the best of Lisbon on a guided tour through the city's historic districts.

    • Witness the whimsical architecture of Sintra's palaces.

    • Hike Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains and visit a local family to share a traditional, home-cooked lunch.

    • Immerse yourself in the spice-scented souqs of Marrakesh.

    • Stay in a characterful, traditional, beautiful riad in the heart of Marrakesh's old city.

    8 days from $4,795pp

  • Boats docked, Sorrento

    Sorrento to Ischia: exploring the coastal gems

    Italy
    • Explore the island streets and take in the coastal views of Ischia, known as The Green Island.

    • Enjoy a wine tasting at a charming family-run winery nestled in a historic village with breathtaking sea views.

    • Discover the enchanting forests and rolling hills of Ischia as you hike along the scenic trails.

    • Kayak along the Sorrentine peninsula, visiting hidden caves hidden along the coastline.

    • Stroll through the cobblestone streets and bustling marinas of Sorrento.

    8 days from $4,895pp

  • Pena Palace, Sintra

    Lisbon & the Algarve: Portugal self-drive tour

    Portugal
    • Tour Lisbon’s historical heart and sample some local delicacies.

    • Explore the eccentric palaces and gardens of Sintra.

    • Visit Roman ruins in the historic city of Évora in the heart of the Alentejo countryside.

    • Learn how to cook traditional Algarvian Cataplana.

    • Hike the Algarve coastline near Lagos.

    10 days from $4,990pp

  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula

    The Golden Circle & west Iceland

    Iceland
    • Witness the mighty Geysir erupt as you explore the Golden Circle.

    • Learn about traditional Icelandic cuisine on a private food tour of Reykjavík.

    • Soak in the astounding scenery of the islands and mountains north of Snæfellsnes Peninsula on a boat trip with a fresh sushi feast served on board.

    • Explore Langjökull Glacier from tunnels which take you into the glacier itself.

    7 days from $5,095pp

  • A Coruña Town hall, A Coruña, Galicia, Spain

    Northern Spain explored: Asturias & Galicia

    Spain
    • Discover the picturesque seaside towns and charming mountain villages in Asturias.

    • Explore the pre-Romanesque Asturian church of Santa Maria del Naranco with your private guide.

    • Immerse yourself in Galician cuisine with a hands-on cooking experience.

    • Uncover the hidden secrets within the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

    11 days from $5,205pp

  • Women in traditional dress, Sardinia

    Road trip to the heart of Sardinia’s traditions

    Italy
    • Explore the archaeological site of Su Nuraxi di Barumini and learn about Sardinia's ancient history.

    • Learn about Sardinia's beekeeping traditions during a guided visit to a local apiary.

    • Spend time with local shepherds to learn about traditional farming practices while enjoying lunch.

    • Try your hand at making pasta and cheese with a local chef.

    • Visit the wine region of Gallura to sip Vermentino before exploring the ancient ruins of Nuraghe La Prisgiona.

    10 days from $5,260pp

  • Twin lakes, Sete Cidades, São Miguel

    Lisbon & the Azores

    Portugal
    • Explore the largest city in the Azores, Ponta Delgada, on a private walking tour.

    • Visit the twin lakes of Sete Cidades by bicycle and 4x4.

    • Embark on a whale- and dolphin-watching tour outside Ponta Delgada.

    • Hear traditional Portuguese fado music at a special dinner in Lisbon.

    • Discover the history of Lisbon on a private walking tour.

    • Tour the vibrant and eclectic palaces of Sintra.

    7 days from $5,290pp

  • St Peters Statue at the Vatican, Rome

    Italy beyond the summer

    Italy
    • Learn to cook like a Tuscan at a private Florentine cooking class with a local chef.

    • Tour Naples Archaeological Museum with a private guide and see original objects from Pompeii.

    • Visit the Vatican Museums with your private guide and see the Sistine Chapel at its least crowded.

    9 days from $6,055pp

  • Elouda, Crete

    Discover Crete

    Greece
    • Walk around the Palace of Knossos with a private guide on a tour of the former Minoan capital.

    • Try your hand at some Cretan dishes at a countryside cooking class.

    • Enjoy the freedom of your own rental car when exploring eastern Crete.

    • Explore the former leper colony of Spinalonga with a private guide.

    7 days from $6,105pp

  • Panagia Thalassitra, Milos

    Cycladic Islands: Milos, Paros & Naxos

    Greece
    • Stay in the whitewashed village of Naousa on Paros and visit its Venetian castle.

    • Spend the day aboard a catamaran cruising the coastline of Milos.

    • Explore the island of Naxos on a private guided tour.

    • Enjoy a slow paced itinerary with plenty of time at leisure to relax.

    10 days from $6,235pp

  • Temple of Juno, Agrigento

    Hidden Sicily self-drive tour

    Italy
    • Explore the Temple of Concordia and the Temple of Juno as you tour the UNESCO-protected Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.

    • Tour the medieval hilltop town of Erice with a famous pastry shop visit before enjoying lunch at the Trapani salt pans.

    • Stroll around the charming baroque city of Noto and visit its 18th-century Cathedral.

    • Stay in a rural resort on the slopes of Mount Etna and enjoy a visit to the summit.

    12 days from $6,505pp

  • Parc Güell, Barcelona

    Family adventure to Spain

    Spain
    • Unwind as a family aboard a private sailing boat for a mesmerizing sunset cruise along the Mediterranean coast.

    • Dive into the enchanting world of Antoni Gaudí.

    • Feel the passion of FC Barcelona with a family tour of Camp Nou.

    • Navigate the azure waters of the coastline of Tossa de Mar by kayak.

    • Embark on an unforgettable e-bike tour through the medieval villages of Pals and Peratallada.

    8 days from $6,535pp

  • Hagia Sophia

    Istanbul & Cappadocia

    Turkey
    • Explore Istanbul's highlights, such as the Blue Mosque and Spice Market.

    • Take a leisurely cruise along the Bosphorus admiring Europe on one side and Asia on the other.

    • Fly high above Cappadocia on a sunrise hot air balloon ride.

    • Try your hand at mastering Turkish cuisine on a cooking class with a local family.

    8 days from $6,545pp

  • Kassiopi Marina, Corfu

    Mainland Greece & Corfu

    Greece
    • Delve into the rich history of ancient Athens and the modern Acropolis Museum with a private tour.

    • Explore the charming, car-free island of Hydra.

    • Tour the ancient site of Delphi, where the famous oracle was believed to have spoken.

    • Embark on a 4x4 adventure through the Pindus Mountains, visiting traditional mountain villages.

    • Experience Corfu's dynamic culinary scene with your private guide.

    • Unwind on the sandy shores of Corfu.

    12 days from $6,585pp

  • Monastery, Troodos Mountains

    Culture, cuisine, & history in Greece & Cyprus

    Greece and Cyprus
    • Climb to the Acropolis and wander the ancient Agora.

    • Watch the sunset ignite the Temple of Poseidon.

    • Uncover frescoed UNESCO monasteries in the Troodos Mountains.

    • Roll up your sleeves for an authentic Cypriot cooking session.

    • Cross into Northern Cyprus to explore storied Famagusta.

    10 days from $6,850pp

  • Duomo Santa Maria Del Fiore, Florence

    Florence & Rome explored

    Italy
    • Uncover the secrets of the Colosseum and Roman Forum on a private tour.

    • Marvel at the majesty of the Sistine Chapel ceiling and St Peter's Basilica.

    • Visit Siena and San Gimignano and have lunch in a local Tuscan farmhouse.

    • Visit Michelangelo's iconic 'David' and explore the opulent Pitti Palace in Florence.

    8 days from $6,925pp

  • Epidavaros Theatre, Greece

    Mainland Greece tour: Athens to Thessaloniki

    Greece
    • Explore the fascinating history of ancient Athens and the contemporary Acropolis Museum on a private tour.

    • Spend time with a local beekeeper, discovering the art of beekeeping and sampling freshly harvested honey.

    • Tour the impressive Meteora monasteries with your own guide.

    • Embark on a hike through the Enipeas Gorge on Mount Olympus.

    • Discover the birthplace of Alexander the Great.

    11 days from $6,960pp

  • Wine tasting

    Highlights of Lisbon & Porto

    Portugal
    • Listen to melancholy fado music over a traditional dinner in Lisbon.

    • Learn about Lisbon’s history on a walking tour with stops to sample local delicacies.

    • Witness the whimsical architecture in Sintra.

    • Take a panoramic tour of Porto ending with a port wine tasting.

    • Discover the wines and landscapes of the Douro Valley on a full-day excursion.

    7 days from $6,975pp

  • Cala Corsara, La Maddalena islands

    Sardinia uncovered: beaches, mountains & landscapes

    Italy
    • Enjoy the freedom of self-driving throughout the trip.

    • Explore the nature reserves and wild beauty of southern Sardinia on a 4x4 adventure.

    • Experience the hanging valleys and natural waterfalls of central Sardinia with your private hiking guide.

    • Relax and cruise through the stunning scenery of La Maddalena archipelago.

    • Spend time with local shepherds to learn about traditional farming practices while enjoying lunch.

    10 days from $6,980pp

  • Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon

    Classic Iceland self-drive tour

    Iceland
    • Eat your way around Reykjavík on a private food-focused walking tour.

    • Snorkel between the tectonic plates in Þingvellir National Park.

    • Wander through icy tunnels carved in the depths of Langjökull glacier.

    • Watch icebergs calve from glaciers and float across Jökulsárlón lagoon.

    9 days from $6,995pp

  • Gothic Quarter, Barcelona

    Barcelona & the Costa Brava

    Spain
    • Take in the virtuoso modernist architecture of Antoni Gaudí.

    • Explore Barcelona’s tangled medieval streets and glittering modern waterfront by bicycle.

    • Shop for ingredients and prepare your own paella with a professional chef.

    • Visit Dalí’s birthplace and tour the medieval heart of Girona.

    • Relax on the Costa Brava.

    7 days from $7,110pp

  • Pasta making

    Classic Italian family adventure: Venice, Florence & Rome

    Italy
    • Learn to make pasta from scratch with a local chef in Florence.

    • Create your own Venetian mask with a master mask maker in Venice.

    • Cruise on the back of a vintage Vespa to discover the secrets of Rome.

    • See Michelangelo's 'David' in Florence.

    • Uncover the history of Ancient Rome on a private family tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

    • Visit the Sistine Chapel on a private family tour of the Vatican.

    • Learn to fight like a Gladiator at the Roman Gladiator School

    10 days from $7,260pp

  • Panoramic of Pula, Istria

    Istria & the Island of Vitality

    Croatia
    • Enjoy discovering three of Istria's most important coastal towns, Rovinj, Pula and Poreč.

    • Travel in style with private plane transfers between Pula and Lošinj.

    • Uncover the charms of Lošinj, a historically important health tourism spot with your private guide.

    • Cruise around the Kvarner Islets and snorkel in the crystal clear waters from your private boat trip.

    • Sip delicious Istrian wines at the Meneghetti wine resort.

    8 days from $7,270pp

  • Views over Assisi, Umbria

    Self-drive tour Tuscany & Umbria

    Italy
    • Cycle through the vineyards and hill towns of Chianti on a guided E-bike tour.

    • Learn how to make cheese on a visit to a local pecorino producer’s farm.

    • Sample Tuscan wines and cuisine at a Michelin starred restaurant in a 12th century abbey complex.

    • Stay in a medieval borgo located close to the Umbrian capital of Perugia.

    • Visit the city of Assisi, where St Francis and the Franciscan order were born.

    12 days from $7,295pp

  • Oslo City Hall

    Highlights of Norway

    Norway
    • Travel across the country on the Flåm Railway.

    • Admire the wooden architecture and home of Norwegian Santa Claus in Drøbak.

    • Explore UNESCO World Heritage Site Nærøyfjord by open Zodiac boat.

    • Wander through Bryggen, Bergen's historic old town.

    7 days from $7,395pp

  • Dolomites : Dolomites, Italy, Europe

    Best of the Dolomites self-drive tour

    Italy
    • Stroll through the cobbled streets of Verona and uncover the history of this ancient city.

    • Explore the provincial capital of the South Tyrol, Bolzano, and visit the "Man from the Ice".

    • Understand the ancient language of the mountains and how it evolved over the years.

    • Immerse yourself in heady mountain air and striking scenery as you drive from valley to valley.

    10 days from $7,420pp

  • Diocletian's Palace, Split

    Dalmatian coast by land & sea

    Croatia
    • Walking tour of Diocletian's Palace in Split.

    • Soparnik cookery demonstration and visit to Omis coastal village.

    • Three-night island cruise from Split to Korčula, Mljet and Dubrovnik on a Superior Deluxe small ship.

    • Historic walking tour of Korčula.

    • Salt lakes of Mljet National Park.

    • Dubrovnik walking tour and buggy ride.

    10 days from $7,550pp

  • Ribera Market, Bilbao

    Basque Country explorer: Bilbao, La Rioja & San Sebastián

    Spain
    • Visit the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum.

    • Experience traditional Basque culture with lunch at a secretive gastronomic society.

    • Drive and hike through the verdant vineyards of La Rioja.

    • Taste a variety of Rioja wines and indulge in delicious Basque pintxos.

    • Cross the border into France and explore more of the Basque coastline.

    7 days from $7,585pp

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