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THIS IS WHAT AWAITS IN EUROPE

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

Destination Must-Sees

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

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

Irish countryside:

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

Ancient cities of Italy:

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

Destination Must-Dos

Meteora Monastery:

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

The Palace of Versailles

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

Drift down a canal:

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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Europe Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or you just enjoy the finer things in life, a Europe tour package has something to offer every type of traveler. These Europe package tours and trips explore any of the continent’s 50 countries that are diverse in size, climate, traditions—and cost! With fine cuisine, world-renowned art and music, and 23 officially recognized languages, a tour in Europe can be a cultural labyrinth that fuels wanderlust. 

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Europe - Tour Package Highlights and Trip Insights

With so much to see, do, eat and buy, planning a Europe tour is no easy feat. There are, of course, the typical sightseeing musts: Paris’ Louvre, London’s Tower Bridge, and Rome’s Colosseum. Even Europe’s most frequent visitors will always find something new to discover. Read on for our top Europe tour highlights and Europe trip insights.

Europe Tour Package Highlights

• Go back in time and explore the ruins of ancient civilizations in Italy and Greece
• Snack on cheese and wine (or escargot, if you’re feeling adventurous) in the Champ de Mars, beneath the Eiffel Tower
• Ride a bicycle through the townhouse-lined streets of Amsterdam before touring the canals by boat
• Listen to the romantic songs of the gondoliers as you cruise through the canals of Venice
• Indulge in an authentic Belgian waffle, drowned in chocolate
• Enjoy an ice-cold beer from a beer stein at Oktoberfest in Germany
• Hike from village to village in Italy’s Cinque Terre
• Get lost between the shelves of some of the world’s most beautiful libraries, like those at Trinity College (Dublin, Ireland), Mafra Palace (Mafra, Portugal), and the Clementinum Baroque Library Hall (Prague, Czech Republic)
• Join a Europe tour that goes through many of Europe's travel highlights in countries such as Spain , France , Italy , Netherlands and Scandinavia .

Europe Trip Insights

• Traveling by rail is one of the easiest (and sometimes cheapest) ways to get around Europe, especially if you plan to travel for a couple of weeks (or longer). Investigate rail passes before you visit, particularly ones that can be used between countries. Interrail and Eurail are very popular among travelers.
• Don’t skip the “touristy” destinations. Everyone travels differently, but the most popular European highlights are popular for a reason. Brave the crowds and be sure to stop by those more cliché sites - you’ll be glad you did.
• Try not to over prepare! One of the great benefits of visiting Europe is that it’s incredibly easy to travel between towns and countries. Allow yourself some flexibility to open yourself up to new adventures (and avoid travel burnout). If you've booked a Europe tour package with accommodation, activities, guides etc. get ready to indulge and relax - you are up for a Europe trip of a lifetime. 
• Chances are you don’t speak 23 different languages, so be prepared before you travel. Avoid carrying around heavy guide books by downloading a translation app on your phone.
• Note that not all European countries use the Euro, including the United Kingdom , Denmark and Hungary (among others). Do your research beforehand and be ready to juggle different currencies if you’re planning an extensive trip.
• Travelling on a budget? Check our last minute holiday and travel deals to Europe . Also, consider looking for accommodation outside the city centre. Most large European cities are very well connected by public transportation, meaning all your bucket list sites are just a quick (and often inexpensive) bus, train, or metro ride away.

Tours in Europe - Questions and Answers

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Enjoy afternoon tea in London

Sample over 300-years of history in the simplicity of homemade scones with whipped cream and jam. This deliciously British treat is best enjoyed in the afternoon, complete with a hot cup of Earl Grey, cucumber sandwiches and a tower of sugary delights.

Explore ancient Athens

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

Catch a flamenco show in Spain

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

View the Northern Lights in Iceland

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

Spend a night at the opera in Vienna

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

Our top 5 things to do in Europe & Britain

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

Paris, France

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

London, England

The British Museum

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

Florence, Italy

Uffizi Gallery

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

Best museums in Europe & Britain

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

Paella Valenciana

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

Beef Stroganoff

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

Bouillabaisse

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

Best food in Europe & Britain

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

What to pack for a tour in Europe

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

A good book

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

Versatile shoes

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

A blank journal

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

All climate clothing

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

Pack for sustainable travel

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

Our Europe & Britain destinations

Bosnia Herzegovina

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

North Macedonia

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Europe tour companies range from global operators to local operators specializing in a particular country or region. Tours in Europe are often multi-country, and focus on a range of themes such as food & wine, outdoor activity, and culture. Find  the best  Europe tour operator for your style.

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Brilliant ... but.

I will deal with the 'but' first. This is definitely not a 1; leisurely; more a 2, moderate. The distances to walk are comparatively large and the surfaces (cobbl...

highlights of central europe

An excellent introduction to the countries visited. The tour leader, Peter, plying and explaining the flute. Very pleasant knowledgeable man, with a good sense of ...

HIGHLIGHTS OF CENTRAL EUROPE

I was a bit worried about being too long on the bus but the timings were so well organised and during these bleak rainy days of winter I think about how happy I was ...

Had a fantastic time.Saw some beautiful places, amazing arctitecture, met some fantastic people, laughed til I cried. X Auschvitz...........an emotional place. We pa...

it is a very well orgnized trip, good pace, nice combination of big cities, small towns and mountains. good guide too. Prague is very beautiful, should spend on...

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Our Europe tours connect you with the emotion and camaraderie of day-to-day life as you travel throughout its vibrant cities and along the Yellow Roads... those smaller back roads that immerse you on a deeper level offering that authentic sense of place.

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Welcome to Europe

Experiential, culturally diverse, and filled with timeless art, Europe is a true melting pot of cultures on a grand scale. Whether you are traveling along our off-the-beaten-path Yellow Roads on a land journey, or aboard a small ship cruise or river cruise... you are connected to day-to-day European life, with its many historical sites and culinary treasures. The finest handpicked hotels add a luxurious sense of place... making you feel right at home.

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Cruising Europe's inland waterways on a Tauck River Cruise...

Many of our river cruise guests tell us that they believe there's no better way to explore Europe than aboard one of Tauck's custom-designed riverboats. While riverboating may not be for everyone, it may be for you... and there's no better way to find out than by joining us aboard a Tauck river cruise along the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Rhône, Saône or Seine rivers.

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Discover the best of Europe by sea...

Tauck small ship cruising began more than a quarter-century ago in European waters, with a Mediterranean cruise crafted to delight our guests with the best of land and sea, aboard a ship selected especially for the destination. This holds true today as our small ships cruises set off for European destinations in the United Kingdom and Ireland, the Adriatic and the Dalmatian Coast, Greece and the Aegean, Russia and the Baltic , Iceland, the fjords of Norway, and Mediterranean cruises to Italy, Sicily, Spain and Portugal.

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Small group departures transform your travel experience throughout europe.

Small Group departures averaging 24 guests and even Smaller Group departures averaging 15 guests are available on Tauck's Europe land journeys.

Tauck Bridges Family Travel

Exciting adventures await your family on our tauck bridges trips throughout europe.

Scavenger hunts in famous museums like the Louvre in Paris... bicycle tours, train trips, boat and gondola rides... culinary adventures like a cooking class in Ireland, truffle-hunting in Italy, chocolate art in Paris... a day in gladiator school, a night in a castle, and so much more awaits on our Tauck Bridges family trips and river cruises to fun destinations including the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia.

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Many of our Europe journeys and cruises explore some of the continent's greatest cities in one trip – Venice, Florence and Rome on a family adventure in Italy... Amsterdam, Köln and Budapest on one Danube cruise, Berlin, Vienna and Krakow on another... Heidelberg, Strasbourg and Basel on the Rhine...

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The 10 best rome food tours: pasta, gelato & more.

Get your fill of the city’s best cheese, pasta, gelato and more on these top-rated tours.

The 10 Best Rome Food Tours

Laura Itzkowitz

When in Rome , you’d be remiss not to try the local specialties – there’s so much more than pizza, pasta and gelato (though you’ll find plenty of those too!). If it’s your first time visiting the Eternal City, you might be surprised to learn that some of the Italian dishes you’re used to ordering at home aren’t available at restaurants here (forget about chicken parmesan and spaghetti with meatballs). A local guide can introduce you to regional specialties like supplì (cheese stuffed rice balls), carbonara and cacio e pepe . Read on to discover the food tours and cooking classes that U.S. News identified as the best in Rome.

To determine the best Rome food tours, we used our own experiences along with recent traveler reviews. All of the featured tours have at least 100 reviews and a minimum rating of 4 out of 5 stars across multiple websites.

Editor’s Pick: Eating Europe – Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour

U.S. News independently paid to send Laura Itzkowitz , a freelance journalist based in Rome, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. Eating Europe – Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews. 

Price: Adults from 133 euros (about $150); kids from 92 euros (about $102) Duration: 4 hours

This walking tour of Trastevere – often referred to as Rome’s bohemian neighborhood – is a great introduction to Roman cuisine and ties in a bit of the city’s history, too. The stops vary, but typically include a visit to a wine bar with a cellar that predates the Colosseum , a taste of porchetta (slow-roasted pork), street food, such as supplì , a typical antipasto like carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style fried artichokes), two types of pasta and artisanal gelato.

The engaging guide on this tour had a great sense of humor and immediately created a sense of camaraderie among the group, joking that by the end we would be like a big, toxic Italian family. As we walked between stops, she pointed out monuments like the Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere and showed us the buildings constructed on top of the ancient Theatre of Pompey, near the site where Julius Caesar was killed. She explained the four types of Roman pasta ( cacio e pepe , gricia , carbonara and amatriciana ) and how to tell the difference between true artisanal gelato and the mass-produced stuff. I left feeling very full – both literally and figuratively speaking, with plenty of new-found knowledge.

The Twilight Trastevere Rome Food Tour is offered several times a day beginning at 3:30 p.m. Eating Europe also leads a foodie tour of the Testaccio neighborhood, among other options.

Why we love it:

• Enjoy skip-the-line access to popular Trastevere restaurants like Da Enzo al 29 and Trapizzino.
• You’ll learn about how Trastevere developed as a neighborhood for society’s outcasts during antiquity – and how they influenced the cuisine.
• In addition to typical Roman specialties, you’ll taste an ancient recipe that’s rarely made these days.

Check prices & availability on:

Eat and Walk Italy – 3 in 1 Cooking Class: Fettuccine, Ravioli and Tiramisù

Price: Adults from 79 euros (about $87); kids from 70 euros (about $77) Duration: 3 hours

If you want a more hands-on experience than a typical walking tour can provide, this cooking class is a great option. At a restaurant just off Piazza Navona , you’ll join a small group to learn how to make fettuccine, ravioli and tiramisù from a local English-speaking chef. The chef will share tips for mastering the art of homemade pasta. You’ll make the pasta dough from scratch and choose your preferred sauce for the fettuccine, then stuff ravioli with seasonal fillings, and finally sit down to enjoy the meal you prepared with a glass of wine or a nonalcoholic beverage of your choosing.

The class is available every day and takes about three hours (1.5 hours for the lesson and 1.5 hours to enjoy the meal). Travelers say this class is great for families with teenagers and easy for people with no prior pasta-making experience. Classes are offered daily in the afternoon and evening. Prefer pizza to pasta? The company also hosts a pizza-making class.

The Roman Guy Tours – Trastevere Local Food Tour in Rome

Price: Adults from about $108; kids from about $87 Duration: 3 hours

This walking tour starts in the centro storico and then crosses the Tiber to Trastevere, with four stops along the way. You’ll sample meats and cheeses at a traditional salumeria (deli), stop for baccalà (fried cod filets) or supplì, then sit down at a trattoria for a three-course meal with antipasti, two Roman pastas and a main course before ending the evening with a gelato. The tour is capped at 12 participants and includes wine.

Tourgoers rave about the engaging, smart guides and the delicious food, though some reviewers were disappointed that pizza was not featured. Tours run daily, with time slots at 12:30 p.m. and in the evenings, starting at 5:15 p.m. The Roman Guy also offers tours of the city’s major sites, including the Colosseum and the Vatican.

The Roman Food Tour – Rome Food Tour in Prati

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $121); kids from 95 euros (about $105) Duration: 4 hours

Foodies will love this walking tour of the Prati neighborhood, which includes samples of premium food and wine, such as 30-year aged balsamic vinegar, truffles and Barolo. According to reviewers, a highlight of this tour is a stop at Bonci Pizzarium, widely considered the best pizza al taglio (by the slice) in Rome. There’s also a stop at La Tradizione, one of the city’s best gourmet food shops, which has more than 400 cheeses and 300 types of meat. Finally, you’ll sit down to enjoy some pasta before ending with gelato at Fatamorgana, one of the best gelato shops in the city.

The tour runs several times per day, every day of the week, starting at 10:45 a.m. most days. A word of advice from past travelers: Skip breakfast if you go on the morning tour.

If you’re interested in exploring Rome’s other foodie neighborhoods, check out the company’s Trastevere tour, or its tour of Mercato Trionfale, the largest food market in Rome.

Devour Tours – Tastes & Traditions of Rome: Testaccio Food and Market Tour

Devour Tours

Price: Adults from $83; kids from $73 Duration: 3.5 hours

If you want to get off the beaten path and see an authentic Roman neighborhood, this food tour in Testaccio may be right for you. During the walking tour, you’ll learn about Testaccio’s ancient roots and how the old slaughterhouse (now shuttered) played a pivotal role in the development of Roman cuisine. The tour starts with a typical Roman breakfast, with espresso and a maritozzo (a soft bun filled with whipped cream), then visits the Mercato di Testaccio, which some locals say has remained more authentic than the market at Campo de’ Fiori, and includes a tour of an ancient wine cellar. Other highlights include lunch at a sixth-generation, family-run trattoria, and of course, plenty of samples of cheese, pizza and pasta.

Unlike some food tours, this one is adaptable for vegetarians, pescatarians and pregnant women; notify the company about any dietary restrictions at booking. The tours are limited to 12 people. Availability varies, but generally, the tour is offered Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at 10:30 am. Travelers praise the genuine experience and say that it was refreshing to get out of the more touristy historic center. Hungry for more? The company also leads an evening tour in Trastevere, in addition to cooking classes.

Raphael Tours – Rome Street Food Tour with Local Guide

Price: Adults from $52; kids from $45 Duration: 3 hours

Concentrated in the area around Campo de’ Fiori and the Jewish Ghetto , this three-hour walking tour focuses on street food like pizza and supplì. Stops on past tours have included the open-air market in Campo de’ Fiori, the famed Antico Forno Roscioli for some of the city’s best pizza and the old-school Sant' Eustachio Caffè near the Pantheon . You’ll also learn about Roman history in the Jewish Ghetto and Largo di Torre Argentina, where Julius Caesar was assassinated.

The group size is limited to 15 people and tours have two time slots available every day (morning or evening). Tourgoers praise the knowledgeable guides and love learning about the history of each dish. They also appreciate the reasonable ticket prices and sizable portions.

Raphael Tours offers a variety of foodie-themed outings around the city, as well as a kid-friendly tour of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Rome with Chef – Spritz & Spaghetti Class

Price: From 99 euros (about $110) Duration: 3 hours

If you’re nervous about cooking and want a little liquid courage to help you out, this class may just be for you. As soon as you arrive, the spritzes start flowing. You’ll learn tips and tricks for making the perfect Aperol spritz, then try a Campari spritz to see how they compare. After kneading your pasta dough, you’ll learn how to make one of the most classic sauces in Roman cuisine – carbonara or cacio e pepe – before ending on a sweet note with a taste of limoncello.

This three-hour class is limited to 12 participants. There are three time slots available every day. Participants suggested that this activity is great for solo travelers who want to meet other people in an informal setting during their trip. If you’d prefer to leave the cooking to someone else, consider the company’s Trastevere food tour.

Secret Food Tours – Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 89 euros (about $98); kids from 79 euros (about $87) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

One of the things that sets this apart from other tours is right in the name: every tour includes a delicious secret dish that’s only revealed during the tour. Starting with an espresso or cappuccino at one of Rome’s oldest cafes, the walking tour makes six or seven stops around Piazza Navona, Campo de’ Fiori and the Jewish Ghetto for pasta, pizza and gelato, among other tasty samples. While it mainly focuses on Roman cuisine, you’ll also get to try some specialties from other Italian regions, including cannoli and stracciatella cheese.

If you’d like to enhance your tour, consider paying more for the upgraded drinks package, which includes prosecco or a spritz, Italian beer and organic Italian wine. Participants praised the lighthearted and informative guides and loved the food they ate during the tour. Others appreciate that the tour takes you to the less touristy areas of Rome.

Tours are offered several times a day beginning at 11 a.m. Secret Food Tours also runs an outing that concentrates on Trastevere.

Gourmetaly Rome Food Tours – Campo de’ Fiori, Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere

Price: Adults from 97 euros (about $107); kids from 70 euros (about $77) Duration: 3.5 hours

This company has been leading food tours in Rome for more than a decade, so you can be sure they know what they’re doing. Covering three neighborhoods in the city center (Campo de’ Fiori, the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere), this plastic-free walking tour features 15 different food samples at five locations. Highlights include sampling mozzarella, burrata and pecorino romano, trying fried artichokes or zucchini blossoms (depending on the season), digging into cacio e pepe and amatriciana, and tasting organic gelato. Reviewers recommend taking the tour early on in your trip so that you can make use of the guide’s recommendations and tips for avoiding tourist traps (participants leave with a restaurant guide and cookbook, which will come in handy if you’re staying for a few days). Tourgoers describe the tour pace as leisurely and the portions as generous.

The tour is offered in English multiple times per day and private tours can be booked in Spanish, French, German or Italian. If you have more of a sweet tooth, you may want to book the company’s espresso, gelato and tiramisu tour, which visits the cafes, bakeries and gelato shops surrounding the Pantheon and Navona square.

Withlocals – The 10 Tastings of Rome

Price: Varies Duration: 3 hours

When you book this private food tour of Rome, you have the chance to choose your local guide. You might end up with a pastry chef, an actor, a photographer or even a yoga teacher. The walking tour winds its way through Campo de’ Fiori and Trastevere, with 10 food and drink samples along the way. You’ll try sweet and savory items, including buffalo mozzarella and gelato.

Because this tour is private, it’s completely customizable. Availability varies depending on the guide you choose; pricing varies by the number of people in your party. For instance, a group of four adults can expect to pay about $99 per person. Let your guide know in advance about any allergies or dietary restrictions and they’ll tailor the tour to your preferences. Reviewers raved about the fantastic guides, who made them feel like they were visiting a friend.

The company also offers a food tour of Vatican City, as well as more traditional sightseeing tours of the city’s top attractions.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura Itzkowitz is a Rome-based freelance journalist who’s obsessed with Roman cuisine. She cooks it, she eats it, and she’s on an eternal quest to find the best pizza, pasta and gelato that the city has to offer. To curate this list of the best food tours in Rome, she used her own experience as well as her research expertise, poring over reviews and culling tips from locals and visitors.

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• The Best Rome Hotels

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Europe Small Group Tours

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Anatolian Civilizations | 10 Days (Small Group)

Tour from athens to sarajevo or belgrade: 7 balkan countries in 14 days, tour from athens to dubrovnik or split: 7 balkan countries in 14 days, 10-day ultimate ireland small group tour, magic carpet tour, mamma mia - 13 days/12 nights, 10 days turkey escapades tour, 10 days exclusive wonders of turkey tour, best of turkey- 10 days, turkey classics tour.

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“The sunrise balloon ride over Cappadocia was fantastic, we highly recommend this optional activity.”

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• Immerse yourself in the vibrant cities of Tirana (Albania), Prizren (Kosovo), Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina), and Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
• Witness breathtaking sunset views over the rock formations and monasteries of Meteora,

“The stuff was so friendly, and the tour was amazing.”

• Stroll through Gjirokaster's medieval bazaar
• Enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine in Tirana
• Discover Berat, the city of 1001 windows

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• Enjoy Bohemian Galway and venture to the ancient Aran Islands
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• Visit the famous city of Pompeii
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• Explore Istanbul's historic sites and bazaars

“The coordination of travel and different guides for each area was excellent. They turned the trip to individual needs.”

• Cruise the Bosphorus and shop at the Spice Market
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Six European cities that are still warm in September and October – with football tours and cheap bars

• Lisa Minot , Head of Travel
• Published : 21:00, 2 Sep 2024
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AUTUMN can be the best time for a European city break – when the weather is often glorious, but not too hot, and the streets are less crowded.

Many destinations also have a lovely beach to relax at after a day’s sightseeing.

Lisa Minot suggests some cities that are just stunning to visit this month or next  . . . 

September 24C

WITH the celebrities back home, the French Riviera and stunning coastal city of Nice are perfect for a September getaway.

We’ve been flocking to the Cote d’Azur for centuries and its stunning beachfront promenade, the Promenade des Anglais, was paid for by English aristocrats.

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Snaking 4.3 miles along the Mediterranean, it’s the perfect place to start your break — with plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from.

Stroll the Old Town’s narrow, winding streets and pick up fresh fruit, cheese and flowers at the Cours Saleya market which is open every day but Monday.

GO: Three nights’ room-only at the 4H Villa Bougainville is from £294pp including flights from Luton on September 30. For details, see thomascook.com .

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THIS intoxicating city in southern Italy is hot enough in September to soak up sun and sea breezes.

Just a short trip from the city are the ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Book a guided tour to bring the ruins to life.

In Naples itself, the National Archaeological Museum has an extensive collection of Roman artifacts to marvel at.

The Spaccanapoli district’s narr- ow streets wind through the city centre, with fabulous shops, cafes and restaurants.

To explore a lesser known side of the city, head underground at Naples Sotterranea to tour its labyrinth of ancient aqueducts, caves and tunnels.

GO: Three nights’ B&B at the 4H Palazzo Salgar is from £242pp flying from Luton on September 23. See easyjet.com/en/holidays .

September 26C

WITH the searing heat of summer fading, it’s still a very toasty 26C in the Spanish capital in September.

Exploring its grand boulevards, markets and museums is much more manageable.

Art lovers should head for the Prado and Reina Sofia Museums for works by Picasso and Dali. Foodies will adore fresh produce on sale at Mercado de San Miguel.

Take a stroll through one of the city’s glorious parks, including El Retiro with its thousands of trees and ornamental boating lake.

Footie fans should book a guided tour of the Bernabeu, home to Real Madrid . The £28 experience takes in the dressing rooms, the club’s impressive trophy collection and, of course, the hallowed pitch.

GO: Four nights’ B&B at the 4H Sercotel Alcala 611 is from £372pp from Gatwick on September 29. Includes hand luggage and transfers. See tui.co.uk .

October 24C

ATHENS may be a magnet for history buffs but the Greek capital’s buzzing nightlife will delight those who love to party. Of course, a must is the Acropolis.

But to enjoy the ancient citadel, including the Parthenon, without the crowds, go in the early morning or late afternoon — consider a guided tour if you want to skip the long lines.

For the best nightlife, hit the Gazi-Keramikos neighbourhood, known for its quirky bars, clubs, restaurants and live music. For a bird’s-eye city view, take the funicular ride up Mount Lycabettus.

GO: Three nights’ B&B at the 3H Dave Red Athens — Son Of A Brown is from £279pp from Gatwick on October 15. Call 0208 492 6868 or see olympicholidays.com .

ONE of my favourite Spanish cities, Valencia has it all — beautiful beaches, a characterful old town and oodles of green space.

Perfect for an autumn or spring break, the town and beaches are connected by the stunning Turia Gardens — a former riverbed that snakes between the two and is ideal for strolling or cycling or for discovering the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences with its ­aquarium, museums and opera house.

The gothic cathedral in the Old Town is said to house the Holy Grail — and for a panoramic city view, climb the Micalet Tower.

Nearby is the Albufera Natural Park, Spain’s largest freshwater lagoon and near the rice paddies that provide the main ingredient for the city’s legendary paella dish.

GO: Three nights’ B&B at the 3H Ilunion Aqua 3 is from £185pp including flights from Bristol on October 14. See loveholidays.com .

October 23C

EXPLORE the Portuguese capital’s history in the Alfama district, known for its distinctive and soulful Fado music scene.

Downtown Lisbon ’s Rossio Square is a great starting point for exploring the area’s grand squares, shops and neo-classical buildings.

Must-dos include the Tram 28, which winds through some of the city’s prettiest neighbourhoods.

Or climb aboard the historic Bic and Santa Justa funiculars and elevators to view the city from above.

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After dark, head to Bairro Alto for great restaurants and bars.

GO: Two nights’ B&B at the 4H Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel is from £319pp including BA flights from Heathrow on select dates in October plus 23kg luggage. See britishairways.com/lisbon .

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Europe Christmas Markets: Budapest to Zagreb

8 days | discover the festive markets of hungary, austria, slovenia and croatia.

It’s the most wonderful time of year, particularly when its set in some of Central Europe’s prettiest and most historic cities. Get in the Christmas spirit exploring festive markets in cities decorated in full Christmas splendour, browsing local handicrafts from traditional wooden stalls, sampling delicious regional specialties and taking in endless winter scenes along the way. Indulge your senses in intoxicating Budapest, browse Austrian handicrafts hopping between Graz’s 14 charming markets, and be immersed in spectacular winter scenery in Ljubljana and fairy-tale like Lake Bled. Finish up in Zagreb, which transforms into a magical illuminated wonderland for its month-long Advent festival.

Trip overview

• This trip takes you to a variety of Christmas markets across central Europe. Contrast the various traditions, cuisines and of course, mulled wine, in several amazing cities.
• Hungary’s intoxicating capital becomes even more magical when draped in fairy-lights and dusted with snow at Christmastime. Try delicious local specialties like chimney cakes and potato dumplings at its main market at Vorosmarty Square.
• Why settle for one Christmas market when you could have 14? Visit Graz’s main market at Hauptplatz Square, then make your way through as many as you wish.
• Bled’s fairy tale-like scenery – which includes an 11th-century cliff-top castle, a stunning lake and a picturesque island topped with a church – is a dream to explore. See it for yourself.
• Zagreb transforms into a glorious illuminated winter wonderland during its month-long Advent Festival. Spend two days savouring the sights, taking in acres of fairy-lights, huge Christmas trees, nativity scenes, ice-rinks, mulled wine stalls and igloo-shaped rakija (a potent local drop) bars.
• While the Christmas markets we visit are all beautiful, they can get very busy, so please be prepared for crowds. We'll also spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, and as it is winter it would be advisable you bring warm clothing and are adequately prepared for the weather.
• The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train. Train travel is a fast way to traverse long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. Trains are comfortable and often decked out with air conditioning, toilets, a snack bar (or vending machine) and power points. Please note that you'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find this information in the 'Packing' section of the Essential Trip Information.
• Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.
• On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2023 - 31 December 2024

Szia! Welcome to Budapest, Hungary's intoxicating capital. Make your own way to the hotel, where your trip begins with a 6 pm welcome meeting. There are no planned activities for today, but if you arrive early, there is plenty to do and see. This historic city, complete with hilltop castle overlooking the Danube, is beautiful any time of the year, but it becomes even more magical at Christmas time when it's draped in lights and dusted with snow. Perhaps get a first impression of the city on an afternoon stroll, taking in its charming mix of Roman, Gothic and Turkish architecture, or head to Fishermen’s Bastion – a white-stoned, seven-towered structure that looks straight from a fairy tale – for the best view of Budapest. After your important evening meeting, perhaps head out with your new travel buddies and tour leader for dinner, then take a night walk along the Danube River to see the surrounding buildings and bridges lit up in lights. Not to be missed are Budapest's funky 'ruin pubs'.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

If you can't arrange a flight that will have you arrive in time for today's welcome meeting, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please have these on hand.

Get acquainted with Budapest on a morning orientation walk with your tour leader, finishing with a visit to the Budapest Christmas Fair at Vorosmarty Square. Not only is this the oldest and biggest Christmas market in Budapest, it is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world. Discover why as you browse wooden stalls selling local handcrafts, as your senses are treated to wafts of fresh Hungarian pastries (like chimney cakes and home-made strudel), dodolle (potato dumplings), grilled sausage, paprika-infused goulash and other various street foods fill the air. Don’t miss sampling a freshly baked chimney cake (Kurtoskalacs) or dough shaped as a cone, covered in sugar and cinnamon. Enjoy an included food tasting and a warming glass of mulled wine in the market. Afterwards, you have a free afternoon to further explore on your own. You might want to check out some of the smaller markets scattered around the city – head to Deak Ferenc Steet (frequently called Fashion Street), Varoshaza Park, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Erzsebet Square and Gozsdu Udvar to find just a few – or jump on a tram and make your way to City Park for outdoor ice skating in front on the gorgeous Vajdahunyad Castle. Follow this is a warm soak in the Budapest baths. Keep the Christmas spirit going in the evening, taking in festival music at one of the many venues in town.

• Budapest - Christmas Snacks and Mulled Wine Tasting
• Budapest - Leader-led orientation walk
• Budapest - Christmas Market

Travel by train to Graz (about 6 hours). Austria’s second largest city has no less than 14 Christmas markets open over the holiday season. Start off with a visit to the main one at Hauptplatz square in front of the town hall. Find vendors selling a mix of traditional Austrian handicrafts and culinary treats, a towering Christmas tree decked in lights and a carousel for the young at heart.After take a spectacular funicular ride up to The Schlosberg Castle for a visit and to experience some high-altitude Christmas Markets that are right inside. On your way down you can choose to either go on food, via the WW2 tunnel or as an optional activity, should you feel more adventurous, via the tallest indoor slide in the world. The slide is 64m tall and more than 170m long. In the evening, an advent calendar is projected on the town hall to great effect. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore a few more of the markets scattered around town; all 14 are within easy walking distance. 

• Graz - Christmas Market Visit
• Graz - Schlosberg Castle Visit and Funicular Ride

Travel by train to Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana (about 3.5 hours). Set amongst grand lakes and mountains, Slovenia’s picturesque towns offer an idyllic backdrop at any time of year. But in winter, the spectacular scenery becomes even more captivating with a dusting of snow and frost-covered trees. Upon arrival, set out to explore the town with your leader and visit the main Christmas market on the banks of Ljubljanica river. Perhaps head out to Metelkova Mesto in the evening to experience the local nightlife.

• Ljubljana - Christmas Market

Today you’ll take a one-hour bus ride to the lakeside town of Bled. Gifted with immense natural beauty, Bled ranks among the most beautiful alpine resorts in the world; its fairy tale-like scenery – which includes an 11th-century cliff-top castle, a stunning lake and a picturesque island topped with a church – is a dream to explore. Depending on the weather, you can choose to visit Bled Castle, join your leader on a 6-kilometre/4-mile walk around the lake or climb to Ojstrica viewpoint for some amazing vistas. Warm up with coffee or hot chocolate and a slice of kremsnita (Bled’s famous cream cake) before taking the public bus back to Ljubljana.

• Bled - Day Trip to Lake Bled

Travel to Zagreb this morning (about 2.5 hours by train). Nestled below Mt Medvednica, Croatia’s thriving capital is an exciting winter destination. A month-long Advent festival transforms the city into an illuminated winter wonderland, complete with acres of fairy-lights, huge Christmas trees, nativity scenes, temporary ice rinks, mulled wine stalls and igloo-shaped rakija (a potent local drop) bars. The Christmas market here is considered among the best in Europe. Head out on an evening walking tour to see the city in full Christmas splendour. A local guide will provide an insight into Croatian Christmas tradition, such as why Croatian’s used to keep their turkeys out on their balconies before Christmas dinner.

• Hostel (1 night)
• Zagreb - Walking Tour of Christmas Markets with Local Guide

Take in the panoramic view of Zagreb on the cable car ride to Sljeme, the summit of Medvednica mountain. If you weren’t fortunate enough to see snow at previous destinations on this trip, you’ll likely get the chance to experience a true winter wonderland here in the mountains, which always see a fair bit of snow during the winter. Savour the snow-covered sights on a short walk with your tour leader, before enjoying a traditional Croatian lunch. Feast on local specialties like soup, meat stew or sarma (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat), then return to Zagreb for your final night.

• Zagreb - Cable car to Sljeme

Today you’ll have a chance to enjoy traditional Croatian lunch. Keep in mind that Croatian cuisine is meat based. Even though there will be a vegetarian option available, it may be limited.

Your festive adventure come to an end after breakfast. There are no planned activities for today.

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch

Train, Public bus, Taxi

Hotel (7 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is bookable on this trip, subject to availability. Please speak to your agent for further information.

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