Best Mediterranean Tours

Your escorted tour of Morocco is an escape from the crowds typically found at busier times of the year. Begin your vacation with a welcome dinner in legendary Casablanca. Follow North Africa’s infamous Barbary Coast to the capital-city Rabat—once the haven for 16th-century pirates—and take a drive to see the massive medieval battlements and Royal Palace. Throughout the week, you’ll encounter incredible historic and cultural sites. Marvel at the architecture and history of Meknes—the 11th-century military settlement, turned into an impressive city in the Spanish-Moorish style by the legendary Sultan Moulay Ismail. On your guided sightseeing tour, you’ll see the monumental gated walls that surround the city, elaborate mosques and the palace. Continue to Fez, considered to be Morocco’s spiritual and artistic center, and see the magnificent entrance to the Royal Palace. Drive through the old Jewish quarter, travel to the traditional entrance to Old Fez at Bab Bou Jeloud, and follow your Local Guide through the labyrinthine streets of its Medina and the remarkable architecture of the Medersa Bou Inania. Next stop is the vibrant oasis of Marrakesh. Explore the “Red City” amid its sandstone walls and buildings with your Local Guide. You’ll visit Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs (or Badia Palace), the Djemaa El-Fna town center and colorful marketplace. Return to Casablanca for a panoramic drive to visit the Hassan II Mosque. Then, top it all off with a delicious farewell dinner to celebrate your Moroccan Escape!

Treasured. Timeless. Tradition. Just a few words to describe the sampling of stunning history to be found on the tour of Turkey. Founded more than 2,500 years ago, the sights of the once Byzantine empire give new meaning to timeless traditions in the capital of Istanbul on the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. Moving sites of battle and heroism remain where stories of bravery and bold characters still echo in legendary style. From the legendary Trojan Horse to the longstanding temples of healing powers in Pergamum, this tour of Turkey’s treasures brings the past to light in shining examples of turbulent history. Peruse the power of the Roman Empire in Ephesus’ massive archaeological sites and ponder the natural wonders of travertine terraces and thermal pools found in Pamukkale. Awaken your curiosity for ancient traditions along the Silk Road amid Bursa’s centuries-old city center and bazaar in the shadow of Mount Olympus—just a few of the revelations to be discovered on this tour of Turkey!

Join us on a budget-friendly vacation in Sicily—the Mediterranean’s largest island, just off the toe of Italy’s “boot.” Your discovery of this fascinating island, rich in culture, warm welcomes, and beauty starts in Palermo, a vibrant city of churches, squares, marketplaces, and palazzos of every style. Take in stunning views with a cable-car ride to the medieval hilltop town of Erice—with cobblestone streets, fortifications, ancient churches, and breathtaking views over the Mediterranean Sea and the Egadi Islands. Enjoy a guided tour of Trapani, set on a harbor that was once a powerful trading network, and visit Marsala, known for its aromatic wine. See the Acropolis and the temples in Selinunte, and take a guided tour of the spectacular ancient Greek temples near Agrigento. Visit the Roman Villa at Casale, famous for its mosaics, like the “Bikini Girls.” Visit elegant Taormina and the coastal town of Cefalù. Enjoy an excursion on Mount Etna, the majestic volcano overlooking the city of Catania, the verdant valleys, and the shimmering blue Mediterranean waters. Celebrate your Sicilian adventure ending your affordable adventure in Palermo.

Discover the beauty of the Italian Lakes on this magnificent vacation. With the Alps for a backdrop, you’ll enjoy nature at its finest—with overnights in Verona, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore. Plus, on this affordable Italian Lakes tour, you’ll spend one night in Milan, known as one of the world’s fashion capitals. Take a guided walking tour around medieval Verona, famous for the Roman Arena, home of the summer Opera Festival. Situated at the foot of the Alps, Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake. With its cobalt-blue waters surrounded by majestic mountains, Lake Como is one of Europe’s deepest lakes, lined with elegant 17th-century villas and lush gardens; it’s the perfect destination. You will enjoy a scenic boat trip to Bellagio and Varenna, both picturesque towns on Lake Como’s shores, where nature and culture come together. Admire the centuries-old buildings, explore the cobbled alleyways, cafes, and shops. Lake Maggiore is a paradise of crystal waters, backed by towering mountains and surrounded by lush countryside. With its prestigious Italian gardens, intriguing palaces, and scenic landscapes, you can choose to relax or enjoy some of the many activities available. On the way to Lake Maggiore, visit Lugano, set on gorgeous Lake Lugano, shared between Italy and Switzerland. Here—with a Mediterranean ambiance—you can stroll along the lakeside promenade or simply unwind as you enjoy a delicious gelato. Over centuries, Italy’s great lakes have been among Europe’s most popular vacation destinations, providing enchanting landscapes and a relaxing ambiance. Now is your time to enjoy them on this affordable Italian Lakes tour. It’s a lovely vacation, perfect for savvy, value-minded travel lovers.

On this Best of Greece tour, discover the highlights of historic and mythical—as well as modern—Greece. As the birthplace of Western civilization, Greece has some of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites, and now is your chance to explore them. Your affordable tour of Greece starts and ends in Athens with overnights along the way in Nauplia, Sparta, Olympia, Delphi, and Kalambaka and covers the Greek mainland and the Peloponnese peninsula. Step back in time as you visit some of Greece's ancient sites where the Mycenaean civilization thrived between 1600 and 1200 BC. Enjoy the included guided sightseeing tour of the Mycenae archaeological site and learn about its history and legends. In Athens, visit the Acropolis, still standing after 2,500 years. Your Local Guide will give you many insights into this ancient masterpiece. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Acropolis sits high on a rocky hill and is a symbol of Athen’s wealth and power at its apex. In Epidaurus, climb the limestone steps of the amazingly well-preserved, 2,300-year-old open-air theatre and marvel at the perfect acoustics. Step back into the Middle Ages when you walk around the medieval Byzantine Citadel of Mystra, a castle founded in 1249. You’ll also love the mystic mountain landscape of Meteora with its 24 rock-top monasteries set in almost inaccessible sandstone peaks. On this affordable Greece tour, you’ll travel to Olympia, legendary home of the Olympic Games, and Delphi, where people visited in ancient Greece to seek the advice of the Oracle. But that’s not all…you’ll experience modern Greece as well, as you cross over one of the world's longest cable-stayed bridge, the spectacular Rion-Antirion Bridge, linking the Peloponnese peninsula to the Greek mainland. From ancient ruins to contemporary engineering —with beautiful landscapes in between—this affordable Greece tour is perfectly designed for value-minded travel lovers. You’ll agree that your Greece vacation is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Follow the Moorish trail starting from Madrid, Spain and ending in Casablanca, Morocco. Discover the elegant Spanish capital on the sightseeing tour with a local guide, and then proceed to explore the pearls of Andalusia: spend three nights in Cordoba, the city featuring the Mezquita; and get to know Malaga, birthplace of Picasso on the Costa del Sol. Andalusia is associated with passionate flamenco, sunny countryside and a fascinating Moorish past, and crossing the Gibraltar Straight is the natural step to get a taste of real Moroccan culture. Immerse yourself in the northern region of this fascinating and exotic country. From the capital of Spain to the foot of the Moroccan Atlas Mountains, enjoy the diversity of views, flavors and sounds on this affordable journey of a lifetime.

Time travel on this 7-day escorted tour of the beautiful Balkans from Tirana to Dubrovnik and discover how the past stands still and the future is in full play. From the seemingly unchanged villages and natural landscapes to the languid lakes and legendary seascapes of Albania and Croatia, you’ll find the vibrant life of artisans, ancient architecture, and fortresses that hold the secrets of wars past, and freedom won. Capture the beauty of the Balkans on the pink-paved streets and markets mixed with the Byzantine and Venetian architecture of Kotor, Montenegro; the legends of sea stories in Perast; and the massive fortress walls of Dubrovnik. A gem of a vacation in the Balkans that’s worth its weight in gold. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Dubrovnik so you can plan your day your way.

What will you need to pack for this enlightening tour of Classical Greece? A sun hat, your thinking cap, and your competitive spirit for starters. Thought-provoking scenery and stories await in the land of powerful Sun Gods, ancient philosophers, and legendary Olympians. From the world-famous Acropolis in Athens to the sacred Temples of Olympia, and the mountainside excavations of Delphi to the monastery-topped rock formations of Meteora, you’ll walk in the footsteps of Greece’s most renowned and mystical figures—and dance in them, too. A glass of traditional ouzo will loosen your joints to learn the lively steps of the sirtaki, made famous in the classic movie Zorba the Greek. A toe-tapping, hands-on adventure, you’ll also learn the secrets of Mediterranean cuisine and how to make traditional tzatziki cucumber dip. Don’t forget to bring your appetite, too!

Like the blue Azulejo-tiled walls on Portugal’s beautiful buildings, homes, and churches, we’ve pieced together the best experiences of two sun-washed countries for those looking for an enlightening getaway. On this 9-day tour of Spain and Portugal, you’ll spend two nights each in four legendary cities spanning from the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea to the golden coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Barcelona’s distinctive architecture, Madrid’s artistic energy, Seville’s medieval past, and Lisbon’s tiled and cobbled charm await your arrival and exploration. With immersive sightseeing, you’ll dive into the history, culture, and cuisine of each city during the must-see, must-taste, and must-hear experiences, from Portugal’s sweet red port and mournful fado music to Spain’s dry Rioja wine and lively flamenco performances. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Lisbon so you can plan your day your way.

Immerse yourself in ancient history and culinary delights as you discover Palermo’ s vibrant streets, ancient ruins in Agrigento, Taormina’ s coastal charm, and the majestic landscapes of Mount Etna.

What’ll it be? Black risotto made with squid ink? Grilled sardines with garlic and lemon? Lamb and potatoes “under the bell”? This introductory tour of Croatia allows you to sample its local delicacies as well get a taste of the country’s greatest attributes. Modern coastal cities, magnificent medieval towns, and breathtaking natural wonders await at every turn. Get your fill of the lively cobblestone squares in the capital city of Zagreb, the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace in the seaside city of Split, the walled beauty of baroque Dubrovnik, and the magical waterfalls of Krka National Park. Walking tours of Ston, famous for its oyster farms, and Konavle, known for its lush vineyards, are also on the menu of this tasty tour of Croatia. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Dubrovnik so you can plan your day your way.

Experience exciting big cities, charming seaside towns, amazing natural wonders, and a coastline like no other on this value-minded tour highlighting the best of California. See San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, Nob Hill, Chinatown, and Fisherman’s Wharf and experience Yosemite National Park’s wonderland of giant granite peaks, dramatic waterfalls, lush forests, and giant Sequoias—the largest living trees. Explore Monterey where historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row were made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel. Travel the stunning 17-Mile Drive past scenic ocean views, the famed Lone Cypress, and Pebble Beach Golf Course en route to the storybook village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Drive along Big Sur, one of the world’s most unforgettable stretches of coastline with its rugged cliffs, giant redwoods, and spectacular vistas. Arrive in Los Angeles, where guided sightseeing includes the legendary TCL Chinese Theater, the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards, and the star-studded sidewalks of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Have time to explore ‘Tinseltown’ on your own before traveling to Santa Monica to stroll the famous Pier and enjoy the beach. Continue south and tour Mission San Juan Capistrano, called the “Jewel of the Missions’ for its beautiful Spanish buildings and gardens. Arrive in San Diego where sightseeing includes city highlights and the historic Hotel del Coronado, setting of famous films like “Some Like it Hot” with Marilyn Monroe. Return to Los Angeles where this journey ends, but with memories that last a lifetime!

This tour of Morocco invites you to ‘play it again’ in the dramatic sights of a city forever connected to its namesake film, Casablanca. Discover the cafes of Morocco’s largest city, where modern life meets ancient sights that ignite the imagination. Follow North Africa’s infamous Barbary Coast to Morocco’s capital city of Rabat—once the haven for 16th-century pirates. Discover its massive medieval battlements and the Royal Palace in one of the four Imperial Cities of Morocco. Travel along the Atlantic coastline of North Africa to visit the Caves of Hercules on your way to the dramatic promontory of Cap Spartel on the Strait of Gibraltar which divides the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Journey from the gateway to Africa, Tangier, to explore Tétouan, the “white dove” of the crystal blue Mediterranean and the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen. Marvel at the magic of Fez, considered the heart of Morocco, where legends of philosophers and astronomers still intrigue with a colorful culture bringing Aladdin to mind along its car-free urban alleyways and markets. A magical ride, indeed!

Calling all adventurous spirits to embark on an odyssey and discover breathtaking sights and ancient legends. Begin where it all began, the ancient city of Athens where the Panathenaic Stadium and the Acropolis proudly preside and where the spirit of athletes and gods, philosophers and poets still fill the air with legendary tales. 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.

From Turkish treasures to Grecian delights, this tour takes you from the magical monuments and mosques of Istanbul to the mysteries and mythologies of Athens! Your tour of Turkey and Greece begins in the incredible city of Istanbul in a country of two continents. The bold beauty of sacred Byzantine architecture in Istanbul’s mosques and palaces is complemented by the warm people who welcome us to share in the traditions and tastes (think Turkish coffee and Turkish Delight!) in this gateway to the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. Embark on your journey to Greece through Turkey’s northwest region of Marmara. Marvel at the archaeological remnants of Kings in Philippi and Vergina. Explore Thessaloniki the cultural capital of Greece with its Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history. Be amazed by the floating monasteries of Meteora, and the heroic tales of Spartan battles on your way to Athens, where history comes to life as you discover the city that was at the heart of Ancient Greece.

Spectacular national parks and scenic drives highlight this wonderful Canadian Rockies tour featuring Vancouver, Kelowna, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Sun Peaks, Whistler, and Victoria. Begin in vibrant Vancouver where city sightseeing includes Stanley Park and other famous landmarks. Continue to Kelowna on the shores of Okanagan Lake amid orchards and vineyards. Climb Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park, then enter Yoho National Park and ascend Kicking Horse Pass to arrive in breathtaking Banff National Park. Enjoy free time to hike, bike, soak in the natural hot springs, or take in spectacular views from above on an optional helicopter excursion. Stop to see the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, then travel the Icefields Parkway to ride the Ice Explorer on the Columbia Icefield over ice that’s 750 feet thick! Arrive in Jasper National Park and discover its vast wilderness and wildlife including elk, bighorn sheep, and bear. Enjoy free time for independent exploration or embark on optional excursions like floating down the Athabasca River or marveling at Maligne Lake’s Spirit Island. Gaze up at Mount Robson, the Canadian Rockies’s highest peak en route to the mountain resort of Sun Peaks. Travel to the alpine town of Whistler surrounded by glacial mountains with time to hike, explore the village, or take an optional excursion to Ziptrek through an old-growth rainforest. Continue to the Pacific Coast to sail across the Strait of Georgia for two nights in Victoria on Vancouver Island. Enjoy guided sightseeing including a trip to world-renowned Butchart Gardens and have free time for high tea at the Empress Hotel or take an optional wildlife and whale watching expedition. A ferry ride through the Gulf Islands back to Vancouver completes this unforgettable value-minded Canadian Rockies tour.

Immerse yourself in one of the world’s most iconic cities and delve into London’s rich history and culture. See Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey on a city walking tour. Explore a local market and the culinary treasures of London on a progressive foodie walking tour. Explore the historic Tower of London and Kensington Palace. Take a local transport river bus along the River Thames and see the city from a different perspective. Every day in London brings a new adventure, encountering majestic pageantry and grand charm.

Famous for creating the Olympic Games, inventing theatrical arts, and founding democracy, the industrious and innovative Greeks have also been known to vote for the art of doing nothing at all. On this tour of historic Athens, coastal Turkey, and the sunbaked Greek Isles, you’ll witness the feats of great architects, cross the same finish lines as legendary athletes, walk in the footsteps of famous philosophers, and then completely clear your mind on a relaxing 3-night Aegean Sea cruise. Lounge, laze, and learn the national sirtaki dance as you set sail for the most intriguing Greek islands, from the jet-set-approved Mykonos to the pilgrimage popular Patmos to wonder-filled Crete, the cradle of Minoan civilization. Ruins, resorts, rich history, and total relaxation are all on the itinerary on this breezy land and cruise tour of Greece.

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. From the granules of golden sand to the rich nuggets of history, this enlightening tour of Portugal introduces you to the brightest sights of the country as you make a loop from lively Lisbon and back. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Lisbon so you can plan your day your way.

From the seemingly miraculous waters of the Dead Sea to Cana of Galilee where Jesus is said to have performed his first miracle of turning water into wine—this fascinating tour of Israel is full of incredible sights, scenery, and stories. The historical and biblical tales begin in Tel Aviv, the “Mediterranean Manhattan,” continue to the Mount of Beatitudes where it is believed Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount and culminate at the lowest (yet most uplifting) point on the surface of the Earth—the Dead Sea where you’ll effortlessly float at 430 meters below sea level. Discover the fascinating city of Jerusalem and dive into numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites—including the golden-domed Baha’i Shrine in Haifa and the ancient clifftop fortress of Masada—not to mention some of the most delectable dishes of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Enjoy a small group culinary journey to Rome, Sorrento, and Capri on this grand Southern Italy vacation. Spend three nights in Rome and two nights each in Capri and in the Sorrento area. Explore Italy’s southern charms at a leisurely pace: ancient historic sites, spectacular scenery, and authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Start your foodie adventure in Rome with an included cooking masterclass, where you’ll learn how to prepare an authentic sumptuous Italian meal—and get to enjoy it with your travel companions. On your way from Rome to Sorrento, visit a family-run wine cellar and indulge in an included lunch with wine tasting. In the laid-back town of Sorrento, take part in a gelato making experience and tasting in a local gelateria and see how real Italian ice cream is made. Enjoy an excursion to scenic Positano, on the Amalfi coast, and feast on spectacular views of the gulf. Following the natural course of the coastline, the winding road to Positano features dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea, inlets, and bays interspersed with picturesque towns—all with the deep-blue Mediterranean waters as the background. A short ferry ride separates Sorrento from the legendary island of Capri, where you will spend two nights. In the famous Capri “piazzetta” (little square), you may bump into some celebrities! Spend time discovering the island or gazing at the mesmerizing water and enjoying the Mediterranean climate. You may even be able to steal a chef’s secret “torta caprese” recipe to impress your friends back home. Leaving Capri by ferry, on the quest for the most authentic pizza and legendary espresso coffee, visit Naples and enjoy a pizza lunch before returning to Rome. This affordable Cosmos Gourmet Italy tour offers value-minded travel lovers a unique and unforgettable vacation along with the opportunity to learn about Mediterranean cuisine.

Trekked by more than half of humankind’s ancient world, modern day Sicily still offers off-the-beaten-path discoveries that reveal an undiscovered side of Italy. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, French, Germans, Spanish, Italians, and even the British have left an impression on this gorgeous island, and it shows in its diverse architecture, unique culture, and multinational cuisine. As you trace the sparkling coast from the flamboyant capital city of Palermo to the ultra-chic Taormina Riviera, you can expect stunning archaeological treasures, ancient works of art, and a warm welcome at every turn, and a cool gelato on every corner. Traditional granita, cannoli, and Marsala wine serve to sweeten the experience on this Undiscovered Tour of Sicily. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Ragusa so you can plan your day your way.

Discover the magnificent ruins of ancient Greece in their tranquil Mediterranean settings. This comprehensive journey explores Greece's most important ancient monuments, like the famed Temple of Zeus, the archaeological site of Olympia, and ancient artifacts of Delphi. Explore Athens on a comprehensive tour of the incredible Acropolis. Visit a local farm in the countryside to see how olive oil and wine are produced. Learn how to cook traditional Mediterranean cuisine during a cooking demonstration. Learn the history of this fascinating country from local experts on guided tours of Athens, Metéora, Delphi, and Olympia. This well-paced journey balances expeditions to Greece’s important historic sites with ample time to explore on your own.

Uncover the chic resorts, sun-soaked beaches and elegant allure that attracts the rich and famous to the exquisite French Riviera. Unpack for a leisurely multi-night stay, embracing the luxury and breathtaking beauty of the French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur. Spend time in the fairy-tale principality of Monaco. Discover the opulence of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and Gardens. Get a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous in Cannes. Watch artisans create fragrant perfumes. Enjoy leisure time to explore on your own. It’s time you lived a little bit of the good life.

Uncover the chic resorts, sun-soaked beaches, and elegant allure that attract the rich and famous to the exquisite French Riviera. Spend time in the fairy-tale principality of Monaco. Discover Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the crown jewel of the French Riviera. Get a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous in Cannes. Watch artisans create fragrant perfumes. Enjoy leisure time to explore on your own. It’s time you lived a little bit of the good life. Unpack for a leisurely multi-night stay, embracing the luxury and breathtaking beauty of the Côte d’Azur.