Best Europe Tours

Basilicas, boutiques, and bistros. Cathedrals, canals, and cafés. Peaks, pasta, and pastries. This tour of Essential Europe goes beyond the “must-sees” to include the “must-dos,” the “must-discovers,” and the “must-devours.” As you travel and taste your way through Italy, Switzerland, and France, you’ll delightfully take a big bite out of your bucket list. The rolling Tuscan hills, the soaring Swiss Alps, plus mind-boggling mounds of Italian gelato, Swiss chocolate, and French éclairs are all awaiting from Rome to Paris on this delectable tour of Europe’s most popular destinations. Cruising through Europe’s breathtaking scenery, captivating architecture, and greatest chapters of history has never been easier as you motor by private water taxi through the Grand Canal of Venice, ride an elevator to the courtyard of a medieval Swiss castle, and board a high-speed train for a scenic journey through the French countryside from Basel to Paris. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Rome so you can plan your day your way. Hungry for more of Europe’s essentials? Board the high-speed Eurostar Train to London for fish ’n chips, bangers and mash, and a heaping serving of art, architecture, and fascinating history. When you add a 2-day London extension to your tour of Europe, we’ll also serve up guided sightseeing and plenty of optional excursions to make the most of your visit.

Athens to Athens and everything in between makes this Greek adventure one for the history books. From the mysterious ruins dedicated to Greek deities, to the magnificent realms of the great philosophers, your imagination will overflow with the sights, tastes, and ancient tales of Athens, Olympia, Delphi, Meteora, and more mind-blowing experiences—all between the blue skies and seas. Set sights on the sea with visits to the islands of Crete, Naxos, and Paros to unveil the mysteries, myths, and marvelous history that awaits you along with idyllic villages, pristine shores and so much more! You’ll find plenty of island time to wine, dine, and dream in sidewalk cafés and tavernas, creating a few legendary memories of your own.

Start the new year off with a toast amidst lively fireworks and dazzling lights on the Portuguese island of Madeira. Spend time in the quaint medieval walled town of Obidos. Attend an elegant black-tie gala on New Year’s Eve. Enjoy a day at leisure in sunny Funchal. Take in the view from Cabo Girão – the world’s second-highest cliff. Enjoy an espetada, a traditional dinner cooked over an open fire, accompanied by folk dancers and music. From the Portuguese Riviera to historic Sintra, ring in the new year with an unforgettable experience in a few of Portugal’s most beloved cities.

Experience the best of England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales on this in-depth exploration tour of the British Isles. In between time in the major cities—London, Dublin, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Cardiff—visit some of the historic towns and witness some of the breathtaking scenery. On any tour through Britain and Ireland, you’d expect to visit ancient ruins, majestic castles, and historic sights. That’s why Cosmos has included visits to prehistoric Stonehenge; Bath, known for its Roman ruins and baths; Edinburgh Castle, dating to the 12th century, where you’ll admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels; Hadrian’s Wall, the remains of the fortifications built by the Romans 2,000 years ago to defend against marauding northern tribes; the Mayflower Steps in Plymouth, where the Pilgrim Fathers embarked in 1620; the battlefield of Culloden Moor, where in 1746, the last battle was fought on British soil; and more. You’d also expect to see stunning scenery and lush landscapes on a Britain and Ireland tour. That’s why Cosmos has included a drive around the Dingle Peninsula, a dramatic drive passing seaside villages, ancient monuments, and views of the Blasket Islands; a drive on the 100-mile Ring of Kerry, with its rugged and magnificent landscapes; the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher, where rugged cliffs drop into the ocean; a scenic drive along North Wales coast to England’s tranquil Lake District, recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status; and drives through rich dairy farmland. In the Scottish Highlands, drive through the rolling terrain interspersed with lochs (lakes), picturesque towns, and the sparkling coastline. Watch for Nessie at Loch Ness, Scotland’s largest lake. Bustling cities, smaller towns, historic sights, breathtaking landscapes, and much more are offered on this incredible Britain and Ireland tour.

Travel to fascinating cities and through the magical countryside of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, exploring historic places, iconic sights, and rich heritage. Be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland’s Ring of Kerry, the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, and the Welsh and English countryside. Step into the past at York’s medieval Shambles and Bath’s ancient Roman ruins. Get acquainted with Britain’s pageantry in the royal cities of Edinburgh and London and soak in the cities’ iconic sights on guided walking tours. This is an unforgettable journey for the books through Britain and Ireland.

Glide along the enchanting Rhine and Moselle Rivers on a leisurely journey to the Netherlands, Germany, and France. Join a local expert for a tour of Amsterdam. Experience the storybook town of Cochem and the historic Reichsburg Castle, perched high above the banks of the Mosel River. Cruise past charming panoramas as you get to know the culture and deep history of the region.

Dutch windmills, cozy streets, bubbling champagne, and the “City of Light” – experience the essence of three European countries. Cruise through the canals of Amsterdam on a private boat. Stand in awe before the powerful windmills of Kinderdijk. Spend two nights in the storybook city of Bruges. Travel along the Route du Champagne stopping for a visit to a Champagne winery. See Parisian boulevards and finish with dinner at the Eiffel Tower. Connect with deeply rooted cultures as you make your way through the Netherlands, Belgium, and France.

In the heart of aurora season, encounter a world of untamed beauty in Iceland’s adventurous landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Travel the stunning Golden Circle and visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir thermal field, and the awe-inspiring Gullfoss waterfall. Explore western Iceland’s coast and towns, visit local farms, and spend evenings at leisure searching the skies for the northern lights. Ascend the Langjökull glacier, journey to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and in Reykjavík, choose between a dip in the Sky Lagoon or a thrilling virtual experience ride. From ethereal lava fields to thundering waterfalls and coastal villages, discover the island’s dramatic contrasts.

Discover Scotland’s castles, art, and history as you tour its cities and the Highlands. Cross over to Ireland for music, a medieval castle banquet, and the beauty of the Ring of Kerry.

Follow the path of Paul the Apostle as you discover bucolic beauty and ancient history on this Grecian sojourn. Enjoy a 3-night cruise of the magical Greek islands of Mykonos, Patmos, and Santorini. Visit the ancient Greek city of Ephesus, Türkiye. Explore the Acropolis in Athens. Discover the biblical town of Corinth and see the Agora and the Bema, where Paul was brought before the tribunal. Stop in Philippi, where Paul delivered his first sermon in Europe and baptized Lydia, the first Christian. On your journey, feel the spirit of the New Testament as you visit the places where the great apostle lived and preached.

Vineyards, olive groves, and cities that float. Incredible history, indelible culture, and unforgettable cuisine. This is l’Italia at its most iconic. Enjoy the natural beauty and calm of the Alpine lakes region. Snake along the edge of the sea to the colorful villages of Cinque Terre. Aboard off-road vehicles, explore the marble quarries of Carrara, where Michelangelo obtained the marble for his statue of David. Relax during a leisurely 4-night stay at a Tuscan villa. At a family-owned villa, learn the fine art of creating Tuscan cuisine during a hands-on cooking class. Explore Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Discover Venice, a city of winding canals and bridges. From medieval masterpieces to bustling piazzas, be swept away by the legendary treasures of northern Italy.

Relaxing days and fascinating knights. That is the appeal of the ancient island of Rhodes, famous for its brilliant azure waters, its Acropolis-topped village of Lindos, and its fortress-lined Old Town built by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades. This exhilarating land and cruise tour of Greece, starting with our 8-day Classical Greece vacation, includes Rhodes in the island-hopping fun that sets sail from Athens and follows a captivating course to modern Mykonos, unspoiled Patmos, medieval Rhodes, Minoan Crete, and serene Santorini (weather permitting)—with a special stop on the Turkish coast to see the amazingly preserved Greek, Roman, and Byzantine excavations of Ephesus. See the iconic sights of mainland Greece—including Athens’ monumental Parthenon and the legendary town of Olympia—before you cruise into the blues on this tour of glorious Greece.

Journey through spectacular mountain scenery and picturesque cities as you experience three Alpine countries and Munich’s legendary Oktoberfest. Spend four nights in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bern and three nights in the charming Alpine city of Innsbruck. Spend your last night in the vibrant city of Munich. Get a taste of Switzerland when you meet a local alphorn maker and yodelers and enjoy a fondue lunch. Explore Lucerne, the "Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Visit Mozart's birthplace and the Mirabell Gardens, featured in The Sound of Music, during your time in Salzburg. Sample traditional regional cuisine at some of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Europe. Toast to tradition at Munich’s Oktoberfest, dating back to the 1800s. The hills are alive on this enchanting journey across Switzerland, Austria and Bavaria.

From the ancient ruins of Pompeii to the chic charm of the Isle of Capri, embark on a spectacular Italian getaway. Enjoy multiple-night stays in Rome, the charming Sorrento Coast, Florence, Venice, and Stresa in the Lake District. Discover the treasures of Classical Rome, including the Colosseum. Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Romans in Pompeii. Take a boat to the enchanting Isle of Capri. See the gems of the Renaissance in Florence, a veritable open-air museum. Marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa and stroll the streets of Verona. Stop at a Tuscan winery and farm for a lunch of regional specialties and wines. Tour Venice and walk the Castello district. Cruise to Isola Pescatori, one of the scenic Borromean Islands. Delve deeper into its history and culture as you visit some of the world’s most beautiful locales.

Embark on an Iberian adventure as you take in medieval architecture, idyllic landscapes, and delectable cuisine. Embark on a tour of Barcelona and view Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, including La Sagrada Familia. Enjoy an authentic paella experience with lunch. Visit the exotic and expansive Alhambra Palace. Enjoy the fascinating art form that is flamenco. Marvel at the timeless masterpieces at the Prado Museum. Explore Lisbon, Europe’s second oldest capital city and see Belém and its many monuments, including Jerónimos Monastery (UNESCO). Visit the medieval walled town of Obidos. Explore Spain and Portugal’s culture and history set against a backdrop of sunny Mediterranean shores and grand mountain ranges.

Experience Ireland in all its vibrant shades as you travel from the lively city of Dublin to the untamed natural beauty of Northern Ireland. Explore Dublin with a local guide. Take a jaunting car ride in Killarney. Experience the world-famous beauty of the Ring of Kerry. Marvel at the stunning 700-foot Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy tea and scones on a traditional family farm. Tour the walled city of Derry with a local. Stand on the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway. Uncover the legend of the Titanic at Belfast’s famed Titanic Experience. From breathtaking nature and stunning coasts to a captivating culture and friendly locals – this is Ireland.

Enjoy the splendor of every corner on this leisurely Ireland tour of the essential—and the unexpected.

Head a little off the beaten path on this tour of Scotland's rugged Highlands, coastal byways, and the archaeological treasures on Orkney and the Isle of Skye.

Discover Scotland’s castles, art, and history as you tour its cities and the Highlands. Cross over to Ireland for music, a medieval castle banquet, and the beauty of the Ring of Kerry.

Uncover Scotland’s soul through Highland legends, island abbeys, tartan tales, and whisky toasts in cities, castles, and coastal towns. From buzzing Glasgow and Edinburgh to peaceful isles, lochs, and valleys, this journey blends Scotland’s storied past with its spirited present. Watch border collies at work on a family farm, explore Cawdor Castle’s history, and ferry from Oban to the Isle of Mull and Isle of Iona. Discover the true story of tartan from Highland women, sip whisky in Edinburgh, and walk the haunting trails of Glencoe. Along the way, savor local flavors, meet passionate locals, and feel the pulse of a land where every loch and legend holds wonders.

What shoes should you pack for walking on sunshine? The pair best suited for 1,000 miles of shoreline and 300 days of sunlit skies per year. With its refreshing Atlantic breezes and live-life-to the-fullest Mediterranean ways, the sun-drenched country of Portugal invites you to dip your toe—and entire body—into a sea of relaxation. This rejuvenating tour of Portugal leads you past rolling olive farms, through scenic cork groves, and down winding Moorish alleyways to the country’s signature delights. In its coastal villages and medieval towns, grilled seafood fills the tables, sweet port fills the glasses, and the soulful sounds of fado music fill the air. Continue your tour with a trip to Santa Cruz on the magical Island of Madeira, complete with crystalline waters and centuries of tradition and culinary treats. Explore “Little Lisbon” in Funchal, with its creative atmosphere that inspires the imagination. From the quaint charms of fishing villages to the quiet reflections from luminous pools and lofty plateaus, your vacation in Portugal is a feast for the senses and an unforgettable adventure for the soul. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Lisbon so you can plan your day your way.

A European tour should include the most popular and exciting cities, the must-see sights, picturesque scenery, and a mix of culture, history, and just plain fun. This, and more, is what you get on the Best of Europe tour. Visit London, where you could join one of our optional excursions or just discover the city at leisure. From there, cross the Channel on the Eurostar train to Brussels and then continue by coach to discover many diverse continental destinations. Local Guides will tell you all about Amsterdam’s canals; Rome’s St Peter Square; Florence’s Renaissance old city center with a replica of the “David” by Michelangelo; Pompeii, where you’ll see what life was like during the Roman Empire; Paris’s most famous landmarks with a scenic Seine cruise, and much more. As you journey through Europe, you’ll also enjoy spectacular scenery, such as the picturesque Rhineland with its scenic countryside, historic castles, and charming villages, and breathtaking views of the Italian and French Rivieras. Sit back and relax as you drive past the Burgundy vineyards in France and through gorgeous alpine landscapes from Switzerland to Italy. Marvel at the beauty of Tuscany with its rural villages, rolling hills, vineyards, rows of cypress trees, and olive groves, and stand in awe as you witness the blue sea and amazing views on the Sorrento coast and the legendary island of Capri. Last but not least, you’ll love the green hills and valleys as you travel through Umbria to visit medieval Assisi. Travel back to London on the high-speed Eurostar train from Paris and spend one additional night in London. Maybe go out and catch up on anything you missed out on at the beginning of your vacation. All of this and more awaits you on this dream European vacation designed for value-minded keen travelers!

On this Britain and Ireland tour, you’ll see Britain and Ireland’s highlights, from the bustling cities to the small towns and from the magnificent palaces and castles to the ancient ruins. Travel through the lands of queens, kings, and leprechauns, you’ll begin and end in London and pass through Wales, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England. You’ll visit some of the splendid castles and palaces for which Britain and Ireland are famous. In Edinburgh visit Edinburgh Castle, where you’ll marvel at the Scottish Crown Jewels. In Woodstock, Oxfordshire enjoy a visit to majestic Blenheim Palace, built in the early 18th century and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. On this tour through Britain and Ireland, you’ll enjoy guided sightseeing in many of the cities with Local Guides — experts from the area who will give you in-depth, insider knowledge of the cities and their attractions. In London, your sightseeing includes a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral; and in Edinburgh you will see both the “New Town” and “Old Town.” Additionally, at the National Irish Stud in Kildare, you’ll be shown some of the most magnificent horses in the British Isles, and you'll hear about Shakespeare’s life and times in Stratford-upon-Avon. You will also learn how to make a traditional Irish coffee, and ride on board a horse-drawn jaunting car to take a tour of beautiful Killarney National Park. All of this and much more, including a visit to prehistoric Stonehenge and medieval York Minster, included on this fabulous Britain and Ireland tour. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Stratford-upon-Avon so you can plan your day your way.

Go off the beaten path as you traverse the whole of Britain to see Devon and Cornwall in England’s Southwest, the medieval heritage of Wales, and Scotland’s delights.

Explore a land where world history and fairy-tale charm come to life in the culturally rich cities of Central & Eastern Europe. Enjoy multi-night stays, immersive local deep-dives, and authentic, traditional flavors in Prague, Vienna, Budapest, and Krakow. Learn about life during the fall of the Berlin Wall from a Berliner who lived through it. Get a sweet taste of the relaxed Viennese coffee house culture. Travel aboard a train, like the locals, on the beautiful journey from Prague to Vienna. Make your journey unique when you choose to visit the House of Terror Museum to learn about Hungarian history or indulge in the famous Thermal Baths of Budapest, one of the largest spa baths in Europe. Discover Krakow on a walking tour through the Old Town. Step into history at Auschwitz during a poignant visit. This is a land where past and present coincide – embrace history, culture, and endless beauty in Central and Eastern Europe.