european tour table

D+D REAL Czech Masters

Latest golf videos, scottie scheffler laughs off comparisons to arnold palmer.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Disney Ad Sales Site
• Work for ESPN
• Corrections

European Team Rankings

Points rankings updates for the 2025 ryder cup will be available at a later date..

• Team Europe

Genesis Scottish Open

The Renaissance Club

North Berwick • SCO

Jul 11 - 14, 2024

.css-1hnz6hu{position:static;}.css-1hnz6hu::before{content:'';cursor:inherit;display:block;position:absolute;top:0px;left:0px;z-index:0;width:100%;height:100%;} The First Look: Must knows for TOUR's Modified Stableford event

The first look: everything you need to know for the open.

WiretoWire: MacIntyre wins in home country

Golfbet Recap: MacIntyre avenges last year’s Genesis Scottish Open runner-up in dramatic fashion

.css-tplryy{font-family:Suisse Intl,"Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;font-size:1.9rem;line-height:2.2rem;font-weight:600;letter-spacing:-0.01em;}@media screen and (min-width: 768px){.css-tplryy{font-family:Suisse Intl,"Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;font-size:2.4rem;line-height:2.8rem;font-weight:600;letter-spacing:-0.02em;}} Recent Videos .css-yjoevz{font-family:Suisse Intl,"Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;font-size:1.5rem;line-height:1.6rem;font-weight:600;letter-spacing:-0.01em;-webkit-align-self:end;-ms-flex-item-align:end;align-self:end;cursor:pointer;} View All

Robert MacIntyre's clutch birdie putt to win at Genesis Scottish Open

Robert MacIntyre hits immaculate approach to setup eagle at Genesis Scottish Open

Sungjae Im drains putt to end day with birdie at Genesis Scottish Open

Sahith Theegala ends day with birdie at Genesis Scottish Open

McIlroy Hits Chip from steps to setup par at Genesis Scottish Open

Adam Scott converts short birdie putt at Genesis Scottish Open

Recent news view all, the first look: must knows for tour's modified stableford event.

Presented by

Points and payouts: MacIntyre captures second victory in five starts at Genesis Scottish Open

Im enjoys top-five finish at Genesis Scottish Open, turns attention to Royal Troon

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Say Yes to Greece

Explore all the places we go in Europe

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.

Expert Advice

Featured Tours to Europe

Treasures of Turkey Istanbul, Ancient Ephesus & Cappadocia

Flavors of Portugal & Spain: featuring the Douro and Rioja Wine Regions

A Taste of the Balkans featuring Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina & Slovenia

The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece

Exploring Greece and Its Islands featuring Classical Greece, Mykonos & Santorini

Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales

Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Best of Ireland featuring the Wild Atlantic Way

See Our Travelers On Tour

Brochures that feature our europe tours, destinations in europe.

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.

This European paradise is often referred to as the land of a thousand islands. Located on the east bank of the Adriatic Sea across from Italy, some say that a trip to Croatia is to experience “the Mediterranean as it once was.” It is a natural and historic setting for the many activities and cultural experiences that lie ahead. The art of wellness is practiced along its shores – be sure to indulge in a heavenly spa treatment.

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.

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.

Find a Travel Agency

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

View or Download

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures
• Budapest to Amsterdam
• Amsterdam to Budapest

Grand European Tour

• From $4,499
• 12 Guided Tours
• 4 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026
• Budapest to Amsterdam Amsterdam to Budapest

Grand European Tour Map

Travel through the heart of Europe

Admire Rhine Valley vistas from a 900-year-old castle. Sample the culinary delights of Austria’s Wachau Valley. Learn the Viennese waltz, visit Melk’s Benedictine Abbey and delve into Nuremberg’s World War II history. Indulge your senses on this 15-day journey spanning the best of Europe, tracing the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers between the windmill-dotted waterways of Holland and the stunning landscapes of Hungary, with engaging encounters at every bend.

SUMMER SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Amsterdam

From $699 | 2 Nights

Pre: Amsterdam Premium

From $1,199 | 2 Nights

Pre: The Hague & Amsterdam

Post: Prague

From $899 | 3 Nights

Post: Prague Premium

From $1,199 | 3 Nights

Post: Budapest

From $599 | 2 Nights

Post: Budapest Premium

From $1,299 | 2 Nights

Sign up to receive updates from Viking

Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content.

Company Information

• Order a Brochure
• Special Offers
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Advisors
• Media Center
• Investor Relations
• Health & Safety Program
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Manage Cookies

Viking River Cruises

• Mississippi

Viking Ocean Cruises

• Scandinavia
• British Isles & Ireland
• North America
• Caribbean & Central America
• South America
• Mediterranean
• Quiet Season Mediterranean
• Australia & New Zealand
• World Cruises
• Grand Journeys

Viking Expeditions

• Great Lakes
• Longitudinal World Cruises

2024-2027 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from July 1-31, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London DDAY & Paris, Rhine & Main Explorer. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by July 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by September 30, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by March 31, 2025. 2027 : Pay in full by November 30, 2025. Offers expires July 31, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to December 2024 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to February 2025 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:  Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. residents only. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credits and Viking Referral Rewards, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Special fares are based upon published full brochure fares; cruise fares do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to roundtrip flights only from select Viking Cruises U.S. gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract .

AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS:  Offer expires July 31, 2024.

NOTE: U.S. flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

How to Pick a Tour Company in Europe: 7 Top Vetting Tips

Destination Packing Lists , Europe Packing List

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Europe is an amazing continent, full of breathtaking historic sites and delicious food. If you’re planning to go, you may have a tour in mind, but be stumped on which is the best one. Guest writer, Matt Kepnes, of nomadicmatt.com is sharing top tips on how to choose the right tour company for your dream European trip! Take a look at this helpful guide!

Choosing the Best European Tour Company

Written By: Matthew Kepnes

Table Of Contents

Group tours. They usually conjure images of busloads of tourists descending on a destination with cameras dangling from their necks and fanny packs snug around their waists. There’s also a perception that they offer cookie-cutter experiences (at inflated prices) and should be entirely ignored by intrepid independent travelers — especially in Europe .

That couldn’t be further from the truth.

Today’s tour companies often feature small groups, highlight authentic and unique experiences, are mindful to leave a positive impact on the communities they visit, and use local guides to give you insider insights. In short, they are nothing like the generic excursions of yesteryear.

While I’m an avid solo traveler, I actually love group tours.  

My first international trip was on an organized tour, long before I knew anything about long-term travel. It was a great way to get my feet wet and was just what I needed to get me hooked on travel by giving me the confidence to branch out on my own. 

But even for more experienced travelers, group tours have a lot to offer: you meet people, learn from an informed expert guide, and go to places you normally wouldn’t be able to.

These days, the best tour companies in Europe have something for everyone — no matter what kind of experience you’re looking for (and what kind of budget you have).

But with so many options, picking the right tour can be overwhelming. In this post, I’ll break down what to consider before you book one so that you can save time, save money, and find the best tour for your next visit!

If you’re heading off on a Europe river cruise soon and unsure what to bring, get advice from the experts: the TFG readers! 

How to Pick a Tour Company In Europe

1. think about what you’re looking for.

Before you start your search, take a moment to figure out where you’d like to go, what you want to do, and how much you’re willing to spend. These parameters will help you narrow down your search and more easily identify the companies that meet your needs.

Are you interested in an active vacation? Maybe a cycling holiday through the Balkans appeals to you. 

Avid foodie and wine connoisseur? A weeklong excursion through France may be just perfect. History buff? Book behind-the-scenes walking tours that provide insider access to historic sights.

The possibilities are endless, so spend some time reflecting on what you want to do and how much you want to spend, as there are tours for every budget.

2.  Look at Group Size and Intended Audience

Group size and composition will have a major impact on your trip. I suggest looking for tours with 15 participants or fewer. These can sometimes be more expensive, but you’ll have a more intimate and in-depth experience with better access to your guide. 

Another things to consider is the tour’s intended audience, as this will determine who you’ll be surrounded by for the duration. While this is less important for day outings or cooking classes, if you’re going on a multiday tour, you’ll be spending a good deal of time with other people, which will have a significant impact on your experience. 

For example, if you’re a quiet luxury traveler and the tour ends up being filled with budget backpackers looking to party the week away, you might not enjoy your trip. 

The audience for the tour may be self-explanatory by looking at the website (be sure to scan the FAQ), but if you’re not sure, don’t be afraid to email and ask.

Don’t let the fear of pickpockets in Europe stop you from having a blast at your dream destination. Here are some tips!

3. Review the Itinerary and Pace

One of the benefits of taking a tour is that you usually get to pack more into the time frame than you might as a solo traveler. After all, that’s part of the benefit of going on a group tour — you don’t have to do any of the planning or figure out transportation. You may well also get access to sites that you wouldn’t on your own.

But while you want to get your money’s worth, you also don’t want to be shuttled from one activity to another without time to take photos and enjoy the experience. While you naturally want to see a lot on your trip, look for tours that prioritize quality over quantity. 

For day trips, make sure you know exactly how much time is spent in transit and how much is spent at the actual sights you’ll be visiting.

For multiday trips, down time is important, not only so you can rest, recharge, and soak up the destination, but so you can do any activities or see any sights that are important to you but aren’t included. So I’d suggest picking a tour that does just a couple of big activities per day. 

If the tour goes to multiple destinations, make sure that you have at least a couple of days in each city, especially if you’re traveling significant distances to get to each one. You don’t want to spend most of your time in transit.

TFG readers offer packing tips to ensure you will be warm and toasty while you enjoy browsing Europe’s Christmas markets !

4. Determine What’s Included

In addition to the up-front cost of the tour, you’ll want to find out what’s actually included so that you can budget for additional expenses. Being constantly surprised by unexpected costs while traveling will dampen your enjoyment of the trip.

Find out the following: 

• Is airfare included? (It’s usually not.)
• Is pickup from your hotel or the airport included? 
• Are any meals included or just some? What about drinks? 
• If there are optional activities, do they cost extra?
• Do you have to pay a single supplement if you’re traveling alone? 

Read over the information provided to see exactly what is covered and what isn’t, so you can budget accordingly. Most reputable companies make this very clear. Many also include estimated budgets for additional expected expenses (such as how much a local meal costs, so you can get a better idea of what to budget for food). 

5. Learn About the Company’s Commitment to Responsible Travel

The pandemic’s abrupt halt of global travel illuminated just how dependent many destinations are on tourism, as well as the detrimental effects that it can have when left unchecked. 

Many European destinations, such as Venice , Barcelona , and Amsterdam , suffer from overtourism, and as travelers, we never want to have a negative impact on the places we’re visiting. By traveling in a more mindful way, we can have a positive impact instead and enrichen our own experiences. 

One of the benefits of choosing a group tour is that, with a responsible company, the sustainability legwork has been done for you. 

Here are some questions to ask when evaluating tour companies: 

• Do they hire local guides?
• Do they avoid unethical activities (like getting up close to or interacting with wild animals)?
• How do they support and give back to the community?
• Do they prioritize environmentally friendly accommodations? 
• What are the company’s overall sustainability policies? 

Responsible, sustainable travel is the future , so let’s all be a part of it by prioritizing companies that include these practices by default. 

6. Read Some Reviews 

Once you’ve found some tour companies that you’re interested in, it’s time to peruse some online reviews to see how the company holds up to its promises. 

TripAdvisor and TrustPilot are both good places to start. From there, ask around in any travel groups you’re a part of, whether that’s offline through personal connections or online communities like Facebook groups and The Nomadic Network .

Just remember to take reviews with a grain of salt and try to read between the lines (sometimes people complain about things that were clearly out of the company’s control). Also, people are more likely to take to the internet and complain if something went wrong rather than if everything went right.  

Additionally, if you read travel blogs for reviews, make sure the person actually paid for the tour themselves. While there is nothing wrote with people getting free trips, if someone was paid (or were given the tour free), their perspective might be biased. So keep that in mind when researching. 

7. Check the Fine Print and Book Your Trip!

Once you find a tour, don’t wait — book it before it sells out! If you’re going on a small-group tour, then there are by nature a limited number of spots available. 

But before you hit the “book” button, take a moment to read the fine print, check the cancelation policies, and do your due diligence. Read over the tour company’s FAQ, and if you have unanswered questions, send them a quick email.

Some policies to look out for:

• Payments: Is there a deposit, and is it refundable? Is there a payment plan, or do you need to pay the entire cost up front?  
• Cancelations: Are full or partial refunds available? Is there a cutoff date after which you cannot be refunded? 
• COVID-19: Are participants required to be vaccinated or tested beforehand? What if you or someone else falls ill on the trip?  
• Insurance: Are you required to take out travel insurance for the trip? (Even if you’re not, I highly recommend that you do .) 

Here’s how to get phone service when traveling to Europe and other destinations.

My Recommended Tour Companies

Over the past 14 years of traveling Europe, I’ve tried countless tours, from short free walking tours to multiday excursions. Here’s my list of the best tour companies in Europe to help you get started:

• New Europe – New Europe runs daily walking tours in many major European cities, from Amsterdam to Valencia. They’re great for getting a quick introduction to a place on your first day in a new city. While they are technically free, don’t forget to tip your guide at the end! 
• Take Walks – I’m a history nerd, so I love walking tours that dig beneath the surface. Whenever I want a behind-the-scenes look at a destination, I go with Take Walks. It uses expert local guides, so I always learn a ton. I can’t recommend them enough!
• Devour – As a devout foodie, I love eating my way around a new destination. With offerings in major culinary destinations like Spain, Italy, France, and Portugal, Devour is my go-to company for foods and cooking classes. You’ll learn about the history and culture behind each dish while you dig in — the best of both worlds! 
• Get Your Guide – This is not a tour company per se but rather an online marketplace that lists all kinds of day trips, tours, and multiday excursions offered by different providers (though it is starting to launch its own offerings). It’s a good place to start if you’re looking for ideas and inspiration.
• Intrepid – This is my go-to multiday tour company. Intrepid’s options are fun and educational, but the company is also a leader in sustainable and responsible travel so you know that you’re having a positive impact by booking one of its tours. I’ve been on a few in various parts of the world and always have an amazing experience.

What to Pack for a Tour in Europe

Packing for a tour in Europe will vary greatly depending on where you’re going, the season in which you’re traveling, and what you’ll be doing. 

That said, I always recommend a minimalist packing style, especially in Europe, where you can readily find everything you need should you forget something. You really don’t need a lot when you travel, and you never need as much as you think. 

I almost always fly carry-on only, which prevents my luggage from getting lost and makes getting between destinations much, much easier. I usually travel with a 40L backpack and a day bag and encourage you to do the same.

Here are a few things I recommend that taking with you no matter the tour you plan on taking: 

• Backpack : Europe is filled with cobblestone streets made for picturesque strolls — not suitcase wheels. You’ll thank yourself by opting for a backpack (my favorite is the REI Flash 45 ). 
• Smaller day bag : Bring something that you can put your daily essentials in while exploring. 
• Power adapters/converters : Unless you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe, you’ll need these. Bring a few.
• Toiletries : Bring the basics (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, deodorant, shampoo, etc.) and a quick-drying towel (they take up less space than regular bulky towels). 
• Clothing : Remember that you can do laundry while on the road, so even if your tour is longer, pack clothing for 7-9 days and then wash them when needed. In addition to your daily outfits, bring one nicer one (for an evening out at a classy restaurant or performance) and extra socks (how do those things always disappear?!).
• Water bottle : The tap water is potable in most of Europe, so you can usually fill up in hotels or restaurants to stay hydrated and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic. I carry a LifeStraw bottle , because it comes with a built-in filter, so the water I put in it is drinkable no matter what.
• Kindle/book/journal : If you’re on a multiday tour, chances are that you’ll be spending some time on the road. While you’ll often spend this time chatting with other group members, sometimes you might need some time to disconnect! 

The list above is what works for me, but be sure to tailor it to suit your own needs!

I love solo travel — but I also love group tours. They give you access to expert guides and behind-the-scenes experiences you could not otherwise have had and connect you with a group of potential new friends that share your love of travel (I still keep in touch with some of my fellow trip-goers to this day).

By following the above guidelines, you’ll be able to find the perfect tour for your next trip to Europe, no matter your interests or budget, ensuring that you have a deeper, more enriching experience!

What is your favorite company for European tours? Share and comment below!

For more European travel tips, please read:

• The Ultimate Packing Guide for Vacation in Europe
• The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Fall
• The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Winter
• The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Spring
• The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Summer

LIKE THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

We hope you liked this post on the best Europe tour company. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

11 - 14 Jul 2024

Genesis Scottish Open

The Renaissance Club, North Berwick, Scotland

DP World Tour Partners

RICHIE KOTZEN Announces 'Nomad' Album, Shares 'On The Table' Single

Guitarist, singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Richie Kotzen has signed a label deal with global music company BMG . During his performance in London on Saturday, July 13, the final date of his European tour, Kotzen announced the September 27, 2024 release date of his brand new solo studio album, titled "Nomad" . The effort will be available digitally, on CD and standard black vinyl.

Michael Kachko , BMG senior vice president says: "After working with Richie on the successful SMITH/KOTZEN project, we knew what an incredible songwriter and artist he is so we were excited to hear what he was working on as a solo artist. When he played us the new material, we knew immediately we wanted to be involved."

Kotzen states: "I was very much elated with the news that BMG wanted to release this album as I envisioned it without artistic compromise. I love the fact that the BMG team put their creative trust in me and my vision without re-design. So many times the business side of things can really interfere with the creative progress of a writer and with a team like this the focus is on what can we do to help you beyond what you've already done as a recording artist. The attitude seems to be, 'you've done the work as a writer, producer [and] musician, now let us take the ball and run'. This feels like the beginning of an amazing journey for me and a bit of a re-set in an industry that is becoming more complex to navigate for a lone artist."

Written, recorded and produced by Kotzen , "Nomad" features eight new tracks showcasing Kotzen's multi-faceted musical styles with Kotzen playing almost every instrument on the album. On "Nomad" , Kotzen expresses his diverse techniques and influences, from hard rock to '70s-infused soul and funk, jazz fusion to R&B. It's all intertwined with his own unique playing and songwriting approach, while retaining his ever-evolving signature style.

"I came up exposed to soul, funk and R&B music extensively but at the same time I was a hard rock fan all the way," explains Kotzen . "So I've got this sort of interesting dynamic happening with my music where you hear elements of PARLIAMENT or Curtis Mayfield but then at the same time you've got the BAD COMPANY early Rod Stewart influence as well. Then when I started taking the guitar more seriously, I was drawn into fusion bands like THE DIXIE DREGS , RETURN TO FOREVER and Allan Holdsworth 's work. It is a wacky mixture but that is the formula for Richie Kotzen ."

Earlier this year, Kotzen released the first track from the album, hard-driving single "Cheap Shots" to critical acclaim. And today Richie premieres the follow-up single, "On The Table" , a heavy-hitting rocker that had been living on his hard drive, waiting for the perfect lyric to complete it. A subconscious memory of his Brazilian father-in-law's first English words "The book is on the table" sparked inspiration and perfectly tied it all together.

While "Nomad" has no shortage of heavy guitar rockers, the sheer diversity of the album as heard on tracks such as "Nihilist" , "This Is A Test" and the title track "Nomad" showcases not only Kotzen 's musical range and vocal prowess, but his fearless imagination as a producer/arranger. Already globally renowned as an extraordinary guitarist, with "Nomad" Kotzen stands tall as a truly remarkable all-round lyricist-producer/arranger and singer.

"Nomad" track listing:

01. Cheap Shots 02. These Doors ** 03. Insomnia 04. Nomad * 05. Escape 06. On The Table 07. This Is A Test 08. Nihilist

* Dan Potruch plays drums on "Nomad" ** Kyle Hughes plays drums on "These Doors"

Press photo credit: Juergen Spachmann

Comments Disclaimer And Information

BLABBERMOUTH.NET uses the Facebook Comments plugin to let people comment on content on the site using their Facebook account. The comments reside on Facebook servers and are not stored on BLABBERMOUTH.NET. To comment on a BLABBERMOUTH.NET story or review, you must be logged in to an active personal account on Facebook. Once you're logged in, you will be able to comment. User comments or postings do not reflect the viewpoint of BLABBERMOUTH.NET and BLABBERMOUTH.NET does not endorse, or guarantee the accuracy of, any user comment. To report spam or any abusive, obscene, defamatory, racist, homophobic or threatening comments, or anything that may violate any applicable laws, use the "Report to Facebook" and "Mark as spam" links that appear next to the comments themselves. To do so, click the downward arrow on the top-right corner of the Facebook comment (the arrow is invisible until you roll over it) and select the appropriate action. You can also send an e-mail to blabbermouthinbox(@)gmail.com with pertinent details. BLABBERMOUTH.NET reserves the right to "hide" comments that may be considered offensive, illegal or inappropriate and to "ban" users that violate the site's Terms Of Service. Hidden comments will still appear to the user and to the user's Facebook friends. If a new comment is published from a "banned" user or contains a blacklisted word, this comment will automatically have limited visibility (the "banned" user's comments will only be visible to the user and the user's Facebook friends).

Money blog: Pound flies after inflation news - and it's good news for holidays

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and tips. Leave a comment with your thoughts below.

Wednesday 17 July 2024 20:03, UK

• UK inflation was 2% in June - slightly higher than expected
• Blow for mortgage holders as interest rate cut forecasts rewritten
• Holiday money boost as inflation data sees pound fly
• Ed Conway analysis : No panic in Bank of England, but rate cut in two weeks now less likely

Essential Money blog reads

• Women in Business: 'I set up business with £200 and went on Dragons' Den - now it's worth £1.5m'
• Basically... What happens when you go bankrupt?
• Money Problem : 'A £16 phone bill debt has put a default on my credit record and now I can't get a mortgage - what can I do?'
• Risks from your child's first smartphone - and how to tackle them

Ask a question or make a comment

By Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

While unexpectedly high inflation data is bad news for anyone borrowing money, particularly mortgage holders, it's good for the value of the pound.

That in turn spells good news for people going on holidays to the US or a Eurozone country or for importers paying in dollars or euro. One pound equals $1.30, a high not seen in more than a year, and €1.1915, a near two-year high.

Higher rates and the associated more expensive borrowing tend to strengthen currencies, hence today's data benefited the pound.

The UK-company FTSE 250 index of valuable companies on the London Stock Exchange was down 0.45% following stubborn inflation figures.

Similarly, the index of more international firms, the FTSE 100 composite of most valuable companies on the London Stock Exchange, fell 0.09%.

Another price fall was more welcome - the oil price dropped to $83.96 for a barrel of Brent crude.

A limited-edition Wensleydale & Cranberry flavour crisps has been launched by Tyrells in collaboration with Wallace & Gromit.

The crisps, priced at £2.75, are to launch on 22 July at the Co-op.

Cineworld has opened talks with some of Britain's biggest commercial landlords about its plans to axe up to a quarter of its British cinema estate.

Sky News understands that property owners including Landsec and Legal & General, which between them own about 30 Cineworld multiplexes, are engaged in active discussions with the company about a looming restructuring plan.

Read Mark Kleinman's full story here ...

Frequent visitors to Wetherspoons pubs will know that one of the downsides of the budget boozer is that sport is rarely shown - and when it is, the sound is off.

That's not going to be the case for the Olympic Games in Paris this summer, however.

A spokesman for the chain said: "Wetherspoons pubs will be showing the Olympics.

"So wherever your local is, you won't miss out on the events in Paris."

It comes after Wetherspoons screened all England and Scotland Euro 2024 matches earlier this month.

Seventeen of the chain's 801 pubs won't show the games, as they don't have screens. You can read which of the pubs won't show them here . 

Amazon workers have failed to achieve enough support for union recognition in the UK, the results of a landmark ballot have shown.

More than 3,000 workers at the company's Coventry warehouse were asked if they wanted to be represented by the GMB union.

But the union fell "agonisingly short" - 49.5% of the 2,600 workers who voted backed union recognition, falling shy of a majority.

It means the GMB cannot officially represent its membership among the workforce.

Teachers at state schools will be offered higher wages in exchange for smaller pension contributions.

United Learning, a schools group containing 92 academies, has told teachers they could receive starting salaries of up to £45,000 in return for leaving the Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS).

The current starting salary for teachers is around £36,745 in central London and around £30,000 outside the capital.

All state schools in the UK have to automatically enrol their staff in the defined benefit pension scheme and it includes an employer contribution of 28.6%.

The pension scheme is based on salary and service rather than investments - it guarantees a regular source of income when you retire.

Those who chose to opt out will be switched to a defined contribution pension scheme which is a type of workplace pension where a fund of money is built up consisting of your own contributions.

A spokesperson for United Learning told the  i newspaper  that the move could "attract a whole new cadre of people to teaching".

However, they added that the traditional TPS would continue to be available.

"The two options have the same cost to us – the new one just puts more into pay and less into pension than the traditional one," they said.

Some have criticised the move and warned against it.

Dr Patrick Roach, NASUWT general secretary, told Schools Week : "We would warn any state-funded employer that is seeking to play fast and loose with teachers' pay and conditions, they are not only playing with fire, they will get burned."

Sky News has contacted United Learning for comment.

Rental sector reforms contained within the King's Speech today will push through "key changes" for the sector, Zoopla has said. 

Laws will be introduced to give "greater rights and protections to people renting their homes", including ending no-fault evictions - an idea that was shelved by the last government.

"Draft legislation will be published on leasehold and commonhold reform," His Majesty said. 

Executive director at Zoopla, Richard Donnell, welcomed the changes, particularly on ending no-fault evictions, but warned they will take time to impact renters. 

No-fault evictions, also referred to as Section 21s, allow landlords to kick tenants out of their property without giving an explicit reason.

"Finding a balance to ensure we don't see more landlords selling up and putting more pressure on supply is crucial... the bill outline strikes the right balance," said Mr Donnell. 

"It's also welcome news that the government has avoided implementing rent controls. 

"The focus on growing supply across all tenures is the correct long-term solution but it will take time for this to feed through and positively impact buyers and renters."

Much is known about JD Vance, Donald Trump's running mate, not least his past criticism of the Republican presidential candidate, his tough working class upbringing and his time in the US Marine Corps.

What the business world is more interested in, though, is the Ohio senator's previous career in venture capital and his views on commerce - and what they might mean in the event of Mr Trump returning to the White House.

In particular, Mr Vance  has been strongly supportive of cryptocurrency, raising hopes in the sector that a second Trump administration could be positive for the asset class.

So, too, is  Mr Trump  who, in May, became the first major presidential candidate to accept donations in crypto-assets. He has already accumulated almost $3m worth of such assets - $1.8m in Bitcoin and $900,000 in Ethereum.

What could this all mean for crypto and the wider tech sector? I take a look here ...

People aged between 25 and 34 are proving to be the UK's savviest spenders, Lloyds says. 

The bank looked at how much different age bands increased their spending on non-essential items such as trips, subscriptions and eating out between 2022 and 2023.

Across all age groups it was up 4.3% - but Britons aged 25-34 increased their spending in this area by just 1.3%.

This compares with:

• Aged 55 to 64 - 6.8% rise
• 45 to 54 - 5.1% 
• Over 65 - 9%

Spending in bars and pubs went up among most ages by 8.2%, but only 2.4% among 25 to 34-year-olds.

There are different interpretations for these figures, of course. It could be suggested that what Lloyds calls "savvier" spending is in fact down to necessity because, perhaps, younger people have faced higher living costs, for example being disproportionately impacted by rent hikes.

The data doesn't seem to back this up, however, as those aged 25 to 34 are also spending less on essentials. They spent 3.4% more on necessary items like food, electricity and gas - compared with 5.6% across the population as a whole. 

Every Wednesday we ask top chefs to pick their favourite Cheap Eats where they live. This week we speak to Andrew Sheridan of 8 By Andrew Sheridan in Liverpool, who some might recognise from BBC cooking competition Great British Menu.

Hi Andrew, can you tell us your favourite places in Liverpool where you can get a meal for two for less than £40?

Me and the guys in 8 head to Chop Chop for lunch most weeks. It's some great Asian food, amazing katsu.

Duke Street Market  is the place to go when you don't know what to eat as they have everything you could wish for under one roof.

What I love about this place is the guys in the kitchen love what they do and the food is super tasty and consistent.

Mowgli Liverpool has super tasty Indian food and is around the corner from 8 in Liverpool.

Nisha Katona, the founder (and GBM judge), is an amazing businesswomen and has created a brilliant brand. Nisha is a regular alongside her family in 8 and naturally I can't help but visit Mowgli for something super tasty and reasonably priced.

We've spoken to lots of top chefs - check out their cheap eats from around the country here...

Aldi has come top in a poll of Britain's most popular supermarkets.

Polling data from YouGov, covering the three months to June, puts the budget chain at the top of the list just ahead of its budget rival Lidl.

It also pipped the traditional "big four" supermarkets of Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's and Morrisons.

YouGov's popularity ratings take into account what proportion of people have heard of a supermarket chain and how many of those people view it positively.

Aldi came out top with a popularity rating of 78% . Lidl came a close second, also on 78% (but with a slightly higher negative rating), and M&S Food was third on 76% .

The findings contradict another poll - of 3,000 people by Which? - in February which looked at value for money, staff helpfulness, queuing time and range of products.  

This had M&S top , followed in this order by Aldi, Waitrose and Sainsbury's. Morrisons came last in ninth spot.

Meanwhile, Aldi was named by Which? as the UK's cheapest supermarket again last month - with the company topping the list every month for 2024 so far.

The International Monetary Fund has confirmed it is expecting the UK economy to grow faster than previously expected this year.

The Washington-based fund, which was predicting  only last October  the UK would be the slowest of all the G7 nations this year, now expects it to be firmly in the middle of the pack.

The upgrade - which takes expected growth this year from 0.5% to 0.7% - does not reflect the recent change of government, since it was  first announced in May , when the IMF conducted its annual assessment of the  UK economy . However, it was welcomed by new Chancellor  Rachel Reeves , who has pledged to improve Britain's economic growth.

She said: "While it's welcome that the IMF is forecasting growth to pick up this time, I am under no illusion to the scale of the challenge facing the economy and the inheritance this new government faces. That is why we are already taking the tough decisions to fix the foundations of our economy, so we can rebuild Britain and make every part of our country better off."

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free