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 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.

Tiptoe through the tulips, tread through famous battlegrounds, and sprint to the irresistible bonbons on this aromatic tour. Three nights in Amsterdam, two nights each in Luxembourg and Brussels, plus one night in the medieval town of Bruges is the perfect introduction to the sights and delights of the Benelux countries. Springtime departures include the exploding kaleidoscope of Holland’s famous bulb fields and the extraordinary Keukenhof Gardens, while summer and fall departures lead you to the bold tastes of barley and hops at the Heineken Experience where you’ll hear—and sample—the tradition of the world-famous beer. With intricate canals flowing as freely as the lager from lively Amsterdam to perfectly preserved Bruges, get ready to float up to some of Europe’s most impressive museums, markets, palaces, cathedrals—and confectionaries! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Luxembourg so you can plan your day your way.

Iceland is a country known for its natural wonders: glaciers, active volcanoes, black-sand beaches, geothermal areas, roaring rivers, majestic waterfalls, and beautiful lakes. On this escorted tour of Iceland, start and end in Reykjavik, and witness these natural wonders while enjoying unique experiences. Take an evening excursion by motorcoach to enjoy the spectacular experience of witnessing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Iceland’s night sky (weather permitting). Globus has also included some spectacular experiences to make your Iceland vacation special. In Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, walk through the rift valley that marks the separation between two of the world’s major tectonic plates. In Geysir, experience the geothermal areas and taste freshly baked bread, cooked using the heat from the hot springs. Pair it with a glass of Geysir schnapps. Marvel at the Gullfoss waterfall; drive through the national park at Skaftafell; and stop at Lake Jökulsárlón, where some of the most spectacular scenes of the James Bond movie Die Another Day were filmed. Join us to experience the exquisite natural beauty that will stay with you for years to come—a guided vacation in Iceland you’ll treasure forever.

A cuppa tea or a petit café? A sugar-dusted scone or a savory-filled crêpe? A pint of shandy or a flute of Champagne? The beauty of visiting two of the world’s most fascinating cities in one vacation is that you can indulge in the delights of both. On this 7-day tour of London and Paris, you’ll enjoy in-depth guided sightseeing along the cities’ famous roads and rues, as well as from the perspective of the legendary Thames and Seine rivers as you take in the historic skylines on relaxing, story-filled cruises. The fun continues to flow as you admire panoramic views aboard the London Eye Ferris Wheel and indulge on a French specialty in Paris’ lively Montmartre art district. With plenty of free time in each city, you can immerse yourself in the famous sights you’ve long envisioned, the storied streets you’ve often imagined, and the sidewalk cafés you’ve always dreamed of. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Paris so you can plan your day your way.

This Globus Independent tour begins in Panama City. Here, on the isthmus linking Central and South America, you’ll explore the colonial-style architecture of Casco Antiguo and hear the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruise in the waters of the Panama Canal to follow in the historic wake of some 14,000 ships that traverse the engineering marvel each year. Venture into Gamboa Rainforest Resort in the heart of Soberania National Park. Cruise up the Chagres River in a dugout canoe to visit an Emberá Indian Village where ancient dances, mystical ceremonies, and medicinal plants are a way of life. Take some free time in Gamboa to fish, birdwatch, or kick back at the pool or spa. Follow your independent spirit even further on the Pacific Coast of Panama to enjoy resort life between the lush tropical forests and white sand beaches. Take some free time for yourself to kayak, raft, surf, or dive! Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

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.

When my baby smiles at me, I go to Rio! You’ll be smiling from ear to ear on this Globus Independent vacation in Brazil and Argentina with plenty of free time in Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires. And while it takes two to Tango, it only takes you to choreograph the perfect vacation in South America. From Brazilian barbecue to bathing beauties on the beaches of Rio, to the heights of Christ the Redeemer, and the roaring thunder of Iguassu Falls, a Globus Independent tour gives you the freedom to design your days and fill your nights with Latin flair. Your Local Guide is on hand with included sightseeing, while helping you make the most of your free time with optional excursions to spice things up with your own personal taste. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

If you were the type of kid who always marched to your own drum, this bold tour of Costa Rica is just the escape for you. Wide-open spaces, multi-hued creatures, and bright, vivid scenery welcome you with open arms and a no-holds-barred spirit. As you make your way through Costa Rica, lava trails, cloud forests, and high-in-the-sky suspension bridges invite you to take a walk on the wild side while scenic boat rides, nature walks, and natural hot springs beckon you to leisurely soak in the views. Frolic among hundreds of species of butterflies, birds, reptiles, and wildlife in the most vibrant rainforests, and feast on your own delicious Costa Rican creations in an authentic cooking class. With visits to an active volcano and exotic fruit plantations, plus several meet-and-greets with the native macaws and monkeys, this vacation to Costa Rica is bananas!

Buenos Aires is bursting at the seams with bold buildings, European energy, and bustling boulevards on this Globus Independent South American tour. Walk down the world’s widest avenue where the Colon Theater and Plaza de Mayo burst onto the scene. From the exciting enclave of La Boca to the old district of San Telmo, you can shop ‘til you drop and dine on the deliciousness of dozens of local cafes. Linger in the legendary Recoleta Cemetery—final resting place of Argentina’s famous First Lady, Evita Perón. You’ll also be treated to a lively Tango show in the passionate style of Argentine culture. Spend some free time on the Tigre River or taking a turn at making your own empanadas. Horse around with gauchos on an Argentinian estancia where ranch life is alive and kicking. Go chasing waterfalls in Iguassu National Park, where thunderous cascades plummet 300 feet into Devil’s Throat Canyon. Finally, head to a heavenly sight at the top of Rio de Janeiro’s Corcovado Mountain where the Christ the Redeemer opens His arms wide to the Brazilian beaches below. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

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.

This relaxed 10-day tour combines many lesser visited parts of Ireland with some of the must-see iconic locations. The delights of Dublin, Kilkenny, Waterford, Killarney, and Galway are combined with more remote and unique experiences. Hear from an expert about the ancient Gaelic sport of hurling and take the chance to hit a few “sliotars” yourself; take a boat ride over to the tiny island of Cape Clear where one of its 110 inhabitants will tell all about their life; make (and eat) your own scones and watch a sheep dog at work at a typical Irish farm; have lunch in an Irish pub; hear about the ancient art of whiskey distilling at a modern distillery at the cutting edge of 21st century sustainability; and visit one of the world’s premier horse studs. You’ll leave with your Irish Heart filled! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Waterford so you can plan your day your way.

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.

Deep-blue fjords, breathtaking mountains, glimmering glaciers, and flowing waterfalls… these are natural wonders you expect to see in Norway, and on this Norway tour, you’ll experience all of this and more. A highlight of this Norway tour is a breathtaking ride on the Flåm railway, one of the world’s most scenic train rides, which passes through 20 tunnels and climbs to an elevation of 2,833 feet (864 meters). Marvel at the hypnotic waterfalls cascading down the side of steep, snowcapped mountains, rivers winding through deep gorges; farms on the side of steep slopes, and views of Sognefjord, Norway’s longest fjord. Travel on the Hardanger National Tourist Road, carefully developed to take you through some of Norway’s most stunning scenery, and stop at Steinsdalsfossen waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascading falls without getting wet. In addition to breathtaking scenery, Norway also offers you a country steeped in history. In the Middle Ages, Norwegians built churches out of wood. Only 28 of these stave churches now remain in Norway, and in Borgund, you’ll admire one of Norway’s best-preserved stave churches dating back to 1180. Stay two nights in Bergen, founded in 1070, where guided sightseeing features the main sights and a walking tour of Bryggen. From the magnificent scenery to the vibrant cities—including Oslo—this tour through Norway will delight all of your senses. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Bergen so you can plan your day your way.

That calendar you live by—the one with 365 days divided into 12 months—you can thank the ancient Egyptians for the handy invention that helps you manage your time. In this 9-day vacation, you’ll marvel at many other amazing accomplishments of this remarkable civilization. The daunting Great Pyramids, the enigmatic Sphinx and the extraordinary temples of Luxor and Karnak are well worth the journey as are the sparkling treasures inside Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum, including the fascinating burial items from the opulent tomb of “King Tut.” As you sail down the legendary Nile from Luxor to Aswan on this enthralling tour of Egypt, you’ll also stand in awe at the Kom Ombo Temple, barter for goods at the bustling bazaars, and sway to the rhythmic drums on a relaxing felucca ride down the Nile.

Parmesan and prosciutto. Ferraris and Fiats. Ruins and the Riviera. Some of Italy’s greatest indulgences can be found up north. Italy’s “Fabulous Five,” the pastel-hued cliffside fishing villages along the Mediterranean, start the count of the numerous joys you’ll experience on this Undiscovered Tour of Northern Italy. In addition to finding the freshest seafood along the coast, you’ll relish a balsamic vinegar tasting in the epicurean city of Modena, a parmesan cheese tasting near Verdi’s hometown of Busseto, a risotto lunch at a Vercelli rice factory, and a wine tasting in vineyard-dotted Gabiano. To spice things up, you’ll speed over to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello and strut your stuff down the streets of Milan. Leading you to the fabulous, the famous, and the fashionable, this tour is the way to see Northern Italy in style. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Genoa 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.

What’s the best way to see one of the world’s great melting pots? A Globus Independent vacation, of course! Your guide will show you all the highlights taking you to visit the Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown, and Marina Bay, where you ascend to Sands Skypark to admire beautiful views of the city and its surroundings. The following day you’ll have some well-deserved free time to continue exploring Singapore on your own or book an optional excursion to Kampong Glam or a Malay village. Then, fly to Bali, a magical blend of culture, nature, cuisine, and sun. Visit fascinating villages in the hillside town of Ubud. Take in beautiful views of Mount Batur, Bali’s second highest volcano. Enjoy free time in the coastal town of Sanur.

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.

Looking for a vacation to Greece that includes sightseeing, sailing, learning, lounging, discovering, and dancing? Eureka, this is it! Just as the Greek mathematician Archimedes shouted this exclamation after his great discovery, so will you as you float through the ancient ruins of Athens and then set sail for a 4-night Aegean Sea cruise to the historic coast of Turkey and the sunny Greek Isles. In between poolside chilling, you’ll discover the hottest sights of the Greek Islands—the towering windmills of Mykonos, the fortress-lined Old Town of Rhodes, Crete’s Bronze Age settlement of Knossos, and Santorini’s serene whitewashed and blue-roofed villages. Get ready for ruins and resorts, baklava and beaches, and ouzo and oodles of fun on this relaxing land and cruise tour of gorgeous Greece.

When you hear the call “Txotx!” (pronounced “choach”) shouted in the traditional Sidrerias of Northern Spain, it’s time to gather ’round! Standing five feet back from the tapped barrel, patrons line up to catch the shooting cider into glasses—then toast the age-old tradition that adds the right amount of carbonation to the tart beverage. Lucky for you, there’s much to toast as you explore the sparkling seaside from Lisbon to Barcelona on this mostly coastal tour of Portugal and Northern Spain. This sunny vacation makes a splash with visits to the popular pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela, the famous seaside resort of San Sebastian, and in Pamplona, the legendary Calle Estafeta where the famous “running of the bulls” takes place. You’ll also want to make a beeline to the delicacies of each country, from the zesty paella of Spain to the sweet port of Portugal. Cheers! Salud! Txotx! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Porto so you can plan your day your way.

Upon visiting Australia, Oprah Winfrey remarked to the locals in Sydney, “You’re so darned friendly, you must go to friendly class!” But you don’t need to be a celebrity to get the star treatment and warm welcome of Aussies. Experience the meaning of “G’day, mate!” on this 10-day Globus Independent Australia vacation. We’ve arranged your hotel reservations, daily breakfast, sightseeing, and private transfers to/from the airports from/to your hotels for your intra-vacation flights. Plus, a one-of-a-kind feature: the Globus Local Host®, someone who is available throughout your stay (in Sydney, Cairns, and Melbourne) to ensure your vacation runs smoothly and to help you make the most of your vacation. This Globus Independent tour packs plenty of free time to explore, relax, and discover on your own. Your vacation begins the moment you arrive. Globus can pick you up at the airport and whisk you seamlessly to your selected hotel. Your Local Host will greet you with a smile and information to help you get settled. The next day, after your included breakfast, we’ll pick you up at your hotel for a guided sightseeing tour with a local expert. You’ll hear inside stories behind the must-see sights, like the Opera House and Bondi Beach. And never fear...we’ve scouted the city for the best place to capture a photo of Sydney’s famous Harbour Bridge. In Melbourne, your guided sightseeing with an expert Local Guide includes the Royal Botanic Gardens and Queen Victoria Market. On the third day in each city, you have a free day to explore on your own (with your Local Host support, of course). You may want to follow in Oprah’s footsteps in Sydney and climb to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge; explore the cobblestone streets of the Rocks, the harborside area where the first convicts settled; or participate in a game of lawn bowling. In Melbourne, you can visit one of Australia's leading opal companies or take an excursion to see the little penguins emerge from the sea and waddle across the beach in the world-famous Penguin Parade. It's not just the big cities you'll experience on this Australia vacation. In Cairns, we’ll take you to the Outer Great Barrier, where you can snorkel, take a semi-submersible watercraft tour, or attend a presentation by a marine biologist. You'll be amazed by the clarity of the water and the variety of fish that will swim all around you. You may even see a green sea turtle glide by! You will also have a day at leisure so perhaps take an excursion via the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the quiet mountain village of Kuranda or explore one of the markets to try locally grown mangoes and bananas. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time to enjoy optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

Isn’t it time you nipped monotony in the bud? From fields of yellow sunflowers to cellars of pink rosés, this fascinating tour of France invites you to survey the sensuous land and pick the perfect bouquet. Fragrant gardens and aromatic wines are just the beginning of the sweet experiences that await from the City of Light to the sunlit regions of Normandy and the Loire Valley. Tiptoe through the tulips at Claude Monet’s rainbow-colored gardens, float down the castle hallways in dreamy Châteaux country, and swirl and sip your way from the lively cafés of Paris to the storied wineries of the French countryside. Traveling from the Seine to the sea, we’ve handpicked the best coastal experiences—the resort town of Deauville, the famous Abbey of Mont St. Michel, and the poignant beaches of Normandy, site of the Allied Forces’ D-Day invasions during World War II. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Paris so you can plan your day your way.

Warm winter wishes abound in the holiday atmosphere and abundant Christmas markets of Montréal and Québec City. Discover a winter wonderland of French cultural delights, sights, and bites to warm the heart and inspire the imagination. From Montréal’s Basilique Notre-Dame to Jean-Talon Market, Grand Marché de Noël de Montréal (Great Christmas Market), and Montréal Christmas Village, you’ll feel a cheerful glow around each corner. In Québec, explore Canada’s only walled city. Stroll the narrow streets amid old-world houses by the St. Lawrence River and indulge in a sugar shack lunch in the old tradition. Dive into the natural beauty of Montmorency Falls Park and feel the holiday spirit in markets brimming with holiday cheer and European-style outdoor market shopping as winter warms the heart on this wintertime vacation in Montréal and Québec!

Even if you’re not keen to try bubble and squeak, haggis and tatties, or cockles and laverbread, this perfect sampling of England, Scotland, and Wales will surely whet your appetite for adventure! Our most popular tour of Britain, this tri-country introductory vacation has something for everyone. History buffs will treasure prehistoric Stonehenge, the Roman ruins of Bath and the medieval cities and towns such as York and Ludlow. Music lovers will cherish the music-festival town of Llangollen and The Beatles’ home city of Liverpool. Literary fans will relish the countryside homes of William Shakespeare and Sir Walter Scott. And beer and whisky connoisseurs will delight in the dimly lit pubs from London to Edinburgh and back where if you just can’t bring yourself to taste the black pudding, there’s always delicious fish and chips!