This holiday really delivered beyond our expectations in every respect. The itinerary is packed and varied; culture, wildlife, scenery, exciting activities and enlightening experiences. We climbed Lions Rock; biked alongside rivers, lakes, fields and forest; walked to World End and Horton Plain; explored jungle villages, ancient temples and botanic gardens; rafted across rivers and over rapids; swam in the ocean and gorgeous hotel pools, rode the gloriously scenic train from Pattipola to Ella and even braved tuk tuk rides amidst the mad chaos of The Sri Lankan roads. We jiggled around in jeeps, seeking elephant and leopard and enjoying everything else our excellent guides spotted on two very special safaris. Sounds exhausting doesn’t it but with a very comfortable air conditioned bus to transport us between beautiful hotels in superb situations, and delicious multicultural buffets and wonderful Sri Lankan curries and Lion Beer to reenergise us at the end of each day we were always ready and eager for the next early start. Longer trips were broken up with lovely lunch stops and there were interesting visits to spice gardens, a gem museum, a folk museum and a tea factory. We went from busy towns and hot, humid forests to cooler high country and finished at refreshing beaches, journeying via temples, lakes, paddy fields and the gorgeous contours of tea plantations. We saw traditional dancing and fire eaters in Kandy and had time off to wander the markets and soak up the vibes. There were plenty of spontaneous surprises to add a little extra. We felt safe and welcome, the hospitality was genuine, everyone was so friendly, the children are delightful, and although there is some obvious poverty the people seem happy at heart and very keen to share their love of their country with us visitors. The wildlife in this fabulous country is all around you, flora and fauna in abundance and breathtakingly beautiful.
Cultural Tours in Europe
Our Best Europe Culture Tours
Top 5 Cultural Tours of Europe
1. Highlights of the Amalfi Coast
Whether you’re cruising to the glamorous island of Capri, hiking along the breathtaking Path of the Gods, or wandering through the romantic streets of Ravello, each moment of this 8-day long tour is infused with the magic of Italy’s stunning coast. It’s no wonder that illustrious artists, writers, and actors have found inspiration in the beauty of Campania. Now, it’s your turn to live la dolce vita for a week, as you immerse yourself in the cultural treasures and natural splendor of southern Italy.
2.Treasures of Sicily
Join us on a tour that delves deep into the rich tapestry of Sicilian history, from sophisticated cities to picturesque villages, and from well-preserved archaeological sites to breathtaking scenery. Our journey begins with an exhilarating excursion to the legendary Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, where you’ll witness the raw power of nature amidst stunning volcanic landscapes. From there, we venture to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Syracuse, Agrigento, and Selinunte, each offering a glimpse into Sicily’s storied past. Explore the ancient Greek theater of Syracuse, stroll through the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, and marvel at the sprawling ruins of Selinunte, where ancient temples stand as silent witnesses to centuries gone by.
3. Discover the Baltics
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Baltic wonders of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an immersive experience like no other. Over 12 exhilarating days, journey from the medieval streets of Tallinn to the vibrant capital of Vilnius, exploring the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of this captivating region.
4. Highlights of Albania
Uncover the hidden treasures of Albania, a land of ancient civilizations and breathtaking landscapes that remains untouched by mass tourism. While its better-known neighbors may steal the spotlight, Albania boasts a history and natural beauty that rival any destination in the region. As we traverse this enchanting land, you’ll discover how it was shaped by the Romans, Byzantines, and other ancient civilizations. Explore the ancient Greek colony of Butrint, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site that offers a glimpse into Albania’s storied past. Marvel at the towering walls of the 13th-century Berat Castle, a testament to the country’s medieval heritage. Join us as we explore the Land of Eagles before everyone else does.
5. Highlights of Portugal
Explore Portugal’s cultural highlights from Porto to Lisbon, tracing the country’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Wander Porto’s colorful streets before venturing into the verdant Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards produce world-renowned wines. Discover medieval treasures in Coimbra and Óbidos, and marvel at the majestic beauty of Sintra before concluding your adventure in Lisbon, a city that captivates with its historic charm and vibrant energy.
Ruth Clarke Discover Sri Lanka
Karen Harris Cycling VietnamWe have just returned from this amazing trip. Vietnam certainly lived up to and possibly exceeded our expectations. Vietnam is such a beautiful country – a true feast for the senses, so vibrant and joyful. The Vietnamese people are truly warm, friendly and engaging.
The cycling landscape was very varied through some busy towns, quiet villages, breathtaking scenery and alongside endless rice fields.
The organisation of this trip was truly remarkable thanks to the professional skills of our group leader Son. He absolutely is the best group leader we have ever met on our trips.
Unfortunately, I had an accident half way through the holiday but I have nothing but praise for our wonderful leader Son. He showed such professionalism alongside care, support and empathy, as did all the support team – Lee the mechanic, Tee and Saow our driver. I could not fault any of the team and I felt so lucky to have the love and support of the group members.
The accident did not ruin my trip. I feel so blessed to have seen so much of this beautiful country.
Our hotel rooms were fantastic with available conditioning and a swimming pool available in most of them . Whale Island was beautiful. The overnight train was an interesting experience and Halong Bay at the end was beautiful.
What can I expect on a European cultural tour?
On a cultural tour in Europe, you can expect to immerse yourself in the rich history, art, and traditions of the continent. From exploring iconic landmarks to discovering hidden gems, each day offers new opportunities for learning and discovery. Expert guides will provide insights into local culture, while small group sizes ensure personalized experiences. Whether it’s sampling regional cuisine, admiring architectural marvels, or delving into centuries-old traditions, a cultural tour in Europe promises to be a journey of enrichment and exploration.
Are your cultural tours in Europe guided?
Our experienced and knowledgeable guides accompany our small group tours throughout each journey, providing insights into local culture, history, and traditions. They ensure that travelers have a smooth and enriching experience, offering guidance, support, and expert commentary at each destination. Whether it’s navigating through iconic landmarks or exploring hidden gems, the guidance of our expert local guides enhances the overall cultural immersion and enjoyment of the tour.
FAQs on Cultural tours in European
In comparison to our hiking and cycling tours, our cultural tours don’t require as much physical preparation, but they are still active adventures. To confirm that a tour is right for you, review the activity rating for details on what level of challenge you can expect on our tour. Many of the tours in the cultural category are rated leisurely or leisurely/moderate, meaning they are designed for people who are in good health, enjoy the outdoors, and want a trip packed with interest, but don’t feature too much strenuous activity.
Europe is a diverse and historic continent filled with many opportunities for travelers to discover interesting cultures. For many, Europe represents a treasure trove of history, art, and architecture, offering an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the continent’s cultural heritage. From the majestic ruins of ancient civilizations to the masterpieces of Renaissance art, Europe’s cultural landmarks hold a timeless allure that draws travelers from around the globe.
Furthermore, Europe’s compact size and well-developed infrastructure make it an ideal destination for cultural exploration. With its interconnected cities and towns, travelers can easily navigate between iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path gems, maximizing their time and experiences. Wherever you choose to visit, you will find unique people, history, art, and food. We offer itineraries in all of our favorite destinations, including Sicily, Bosnia, Turkey, Albania, Croatia, and more.
Solo travelers are welcomed on all of our tours, and many solo traveler find that our small-group tours provide the perfect opportunity to explore Europe’s cultural gems in the company of like-minded individuals from around the world. With small group sizes and experienced tour leaders, Exodus ensures a welcoming and inclusive experience for solo travelers, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history, art, and traditions of Europe while forging new friendships along the way.
As a vast continent that features many climates, the best time of year depends on your destination. For much of Europe though, the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) months are ideal, as the weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and many cultural events and festivals take place. Spring offers blooming landscapes and outdoor activities, while fall showcases vibrant foliage and harvest festivals. However, summer (July to August) can also be a popular time to visit, especially for coastal destinations and outdoor activities, despite larger crowds and higher temperatures. Winter (December to February) can be quieter and less expensive, but some attractions may have reduced hours and colder weather may limit outdoor activities.
Our European cultural tours range from seven days to 15 days, offering options based on your travel style and destination. Want more? Check your trip notes and talk to your travel specialist about opportunities to extend your adventure.
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