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

Chocolate and Cheese. Alps and Alp horns. Precision timepieces and timeless scenery. There is so much to yodel about in sweet and scenic Switzerland. With snow-dusted peaks in view from Zurich to Geneva to Lucerne, this uplifting tour of Switzerland has many elevating experiences in store. A stroll through the13th-century Gruyères Castle, a drive through the picturesque vineyards of the “Swiss Riviera,” and a tasting at the delectable Maison Cailler chocolate factory are just the beginning of your delightful ascent. You’ll also visit the resort towns of Gstaad and Interlaken before heading via mountain train to the “Top of Europe,” the nickname for Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station at more than 11,000 feet. This Alpine wonderland of ice and snow, complete with multiple viewing terraces and an Ice Palace, is not just high in elevation—it’s the highlight of this spectacular Swiss journey. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Geneva so you can plan your day your way.

In Greek mythology, the Scylla and Charybdis were two sea monsters located in the Strait of Messina between Sicily and the Italian mainland, endangering ancient mariners, and inspiring the expression “being caught between a rock and a hard place.” Will you find yourself in such a predicament on this Undiscovered Tour of Southern Italy and Sicily? On the contrary, you’ll delightfully find yourself caught between Byzantine and Roman culture, flanked by Norman and Italian influences, and in the midst of a cross-cultural wonderland. Your comparison of cobblestones, customs, and cuisine gets underway in Rome, heads down to the dramatic Sorrento Coast, and then kicks the fun from Italy’s heel to its toe and all the way into the great melting pot of Sicily. From Italy’s lower half to its largest island, ruins, resorts—a rich history awaits. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Sorrento so you can plan your day your way.

They say you can’t stop time. Prague with its intricate and theatrical Astronomical Clock, striking every hour for the past 600 years, is ticking proof. Yet when you travel to the “City of a Hundred Spires” as well as the beguiling cities of Berlin, Warsaw, Krakow, Budapest, and Vienna on this six-country tour of Eastern Europe, it can also feel like time has stood still. Centuries-old palaces, castles, and cathedrals transport you to another era, as do beautifully reconstructed war-damaged cities. Tracing the steps of kings, queens, emperors, presidents, generals, soldiers, and prisoners, history buffs will relish revisiting the most gripping chapters of the past. In addition, with a whole day at leisure in harmonious Vienna and a special Chopin concert in the maestro’s hometown of architecturally alluring Warsaw, music lovers will be equally elated. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Budapest and Prague so you can plan your day your way.

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.

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, trace the story of the nation’s rise on a journey through Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Begin in Boston, where the American Revolution took root and venture to nearby Lexington and Concord, where the “shot heard ’round the world” was fired. Explore historic New York City on a panoramic tour and sit down for lunch in an 18th century tavern. In Philadelphia, see the Liberty Bell and reflect on the nation’s founding at the Museum of the American Revolution. Explore Washington, D.C., from the U.S. Capitol Building to the city’s iconic monuments and memorials, and visit George Washington’s estate, Mount Vernon. Be immersed in the history of a country found on the ideals of “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” in 1776.

This grand historic tour features a two-night stay at The Greenbrier, a classic American resort in the mountains of West Virginia. Relax and unwind on the iconic property while enjoying fabulous dining and traditional pastimes and exploring the storied past of this luxury escape. Be ushered through America’s eras: enjoy a tavern dinner colonial-style, visit Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg, explore a Smithsonian, and more. Experience the grandeur of The Greenbrier amid the West Virginia mountains and explore American history throughout Washington, D.C. and Virginia on a fascinating journey.

From the iconic tigers of Ranthambore to the legendary Taj Mahal, step into a world of captivating mysteries and vibrant color. Explore Old Delhi on an exhilarating city tour, weaving through the streets on a rickshaw. Join a local family for an unforgettable home-hosted dinner. Walk on the wild side in Ranthambore National Park and seek out its most popular residents: Bengal tigers. Stand in awe before the Taj Mahal in the early morning. Ignite your spirit during the holy Ganga Aarti ceremony in Varanasi. Welcome to India - a perfect synthesis of nature, vitality, spirituality, and regal legacy.

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. Your vacation in Portugal continues with a flight from Lisbon to Ponta Delgada—to soak in some of Mother Nature’s finest work on the Atlantic Ocean. Take in the views of volcanic masterpieces from the top of Pico da Barrosa Mountain and visit Europe’s only tea plantation on the massive Maia farm. Visit Furnas’ geothermal wonders and marvel at the volcanic crater, cradling the luminous Sete Cidades Lake—one of Portugal’s Seven Natural Wonders. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Lisbon so you can plan your day your way.

Cross the Continental Divide and discover the diverse landscapes, rich history, and distinctive flavors of Colorado on this spectacular 10-day adventure. From the Mile High City of Denver to the towering peaks, dramatic canyons, and desert landscapes of the American West, this journey showcases the remarkable variety that makes Colorado one of the nation's most captivating destinations. Explore all four of Colorado's national parks, from the alpine scenery of Rocky Mountain National Park and the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park to the towering dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park and the sheer walls of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Along the way, visit Garden of the Gods, stroll through Colorado's fruit-growing region in Palisade, and sample locally crafted spirits at Peach Street Distillers. Experience anunforgettable rail journey aboard the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through the spectacular San Juan Mountains. PLUS, this tour includes your choice of excursions in Colorado Springs so you can plan your day your way.

Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour. Witness the symbol of eternal devotion with a sunrise visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the New7Wonders of the World. Here, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan enlisted the help of more than 20,000 workers and 1,000 elephants to erect a towering white marble mausoleum dedicated to his wife who died during childbirth. Beyond India’s most sparkling jewel lies a priceless gem mine of experiences you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Hop in a rickshaw for a ride through Delhi’s centuries old Chandni Chowk bazaar, sit down for traditional Indian cuisine in the home of a noble family in Jaipur, and embark on two thrilling open-air safari game drives through Ranthambore National Park in search of marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and the elusive Bengal tiger. Next, you’ll travel to fascinating Kathmandu. Enjoy guided sightseeing in Nepal’s iconic capital city, including a visit to the historic seat of royalty at Hanuman Dhoka. Visit the residence of the Living Goddess at Temple of Kumari, and travel to Bouddhanath—one of the world’s largest stupas and the center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Marvel at the Hindu and Buddhist sites in Patan’s Durbar Square. A mosaic of memories awaits on this Small Group Discovery tour of India and Nepal.

You've seen photos of the ancient Athens Acropolis, dating back to the 5th century BC—now’s your chance to see it in person. You've watched the Olympics on TV—now is your chance to visit Olympia, legendary home of the first Olympic Games. You've dreamed of cruising in the Greek Islands—now’s your chance to sail into the deep-blue waters of the Aegean Sea and experience these islands yourself. All of this and more await you on this budget-minded Greece tour and cruise. Step back in time on your guided visits to many of Greece's historic sites. In addition to the Athens Acropolis, visit the archaeological site of Mycenae, dating back to 1350 to 1200 BC; the amazingly well-preserved, 2,300-year-old open-air theatre in Epidaurus, which still seats 14,000 spectators; and the medieval Byzantine Citadel of Mystra, a castle founded in 1249. You’ll also visit the spectacular mountain landscape of Meteora with its 24 rock-top monasteries set in almost inaccessible sandstone peaks. Continue your Greece vacation on a 4-night cruise on the Aegean Sea, cruising to some of the world’s most beautiful islands. Visit Mykonos, Greece's most famous and cosmopolitan island, with its seafront village, sandy beaches, and whitewashed houses. Explore Kusadasi, Turkey, and visit Patmos, where St. John the Divine wrote the Revelation. Call at the island of Rhodes, home to one of Europe's largest medieval towns with ramparts and palaces built during the Crusades. Discover Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands featuring towns nestled picturesquely between two mountain ranges; and explore Santorini (weather permitting), a dormant volcano offering one of the world's most breathtaking panoramas. Picturesque fishing villages, sparkling blue waters, and ancient sites offer the perfect mix for the vacation of a lifetime. Your spectacular Greek tour and cruise is truly an affordable dream vacation!

Embark on this gripping tour through the dramatic landscapes of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Moments destined to become memories abound as you stroll through Lisbon’s music-filled Alfama quarter, pick up the speed on a four-wheel drive tour in the Sahara, and slow it back down to catch some rays celebrity-style on Spain’s famous Costa del Sol. Keeping the plot line interesting, more action, adventure, and thrilling scenery await from the perpetual oasis of Marrakesh to the former sanctuary of Granada’s opulent Alhambra complex. With so many sights to gush over from Tangier to Toledo, it’s impossible to be “quiet on the set” on this tour of the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Madrid so you can plan your day your way.

Follow the rich musical and cultural heritage of the American South on a journey from Nashville to New Orleans, where each destination reveals a distinct chapter in the region’s story. Begin in Nashville, the heart of country music, before continuing to Memphis, home of the blues and the legacy of Elvis Presley at Graceland. Travel along the Mississippi River through the storied landscapes of the Delta and the musical crossroads of Muscle Shoals, where some of America’s most influential sounds were recorded. Continue into Louisiana, where Cajun traditions, river history, and Southern cuisine shape the character of the region. Savor the grand finale in New Orleans, a city of unmistakable character where French, African, and American influences converge in its architecture, cuisine, and musical rhythm. Here, time is best spent wandering historic streets, discovering hidden courtyards, and experiencing the city’s layered cultural heritage. PLUS, this tour includes your choice of excursions in New Orleans so you can plan your day your way.

Beloved music, literature, and poetry; lively traditions, customs, and conversation; smooth Guinness, whisky, and ale—they all flow from the banks of one legendary river to another on this immersive tour of Ireland, Scotland, and England. From the ancient villages along the Liffey to the cathedrals and castles lining the Thames, this tour of Ireland and Britain invites you to splash about in four distinctive countries and cultures. Enjoy the scenic Ring of Kerry, follow the sounds of haunting bagpipes in Edinburgh’s quirky quarters, and quote famous verse as you stroll around Shakespeare’s birthplace in the English countryside. With a compass pointed toward enlightenment and enchantment, this vacation to Ireland and Britain is overflowing with seaside scenery, Highland history, and cobblestone charisma. PLUS, your tour includes your choices of excursions in Alnwick 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 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. All of this and more awaits you on this dream European vacation designed for value-minded keen travelers!

Discover the spectacular landscapes, wildlife, and natural wonders of Alaska on a value-minded land and sea adventure. Begin in Anchorage with sightseeing and a visit to the Anchorage Museum before boarding the world-famous Alaska Railroad for a scenic journey to Talkeetna through Alaska's rugged wilderness. Continue to Denali National Park and Preserve, home to six million acres of protected wilderness and Denali, North America's highest peak. Spend two nights with free time to explore independently or choose from a variety of optional excursions, including wildlife tours, hiking opportunities, and flightseeing adventures. Travel through Alaska's interior along the remote Denali Highway, a route known for its sweeping mountain vistas, tundra landscapes, and opportunities to spot wildlife. Continue to Valdez, where a scenic cruise through spectacular Prince William Sound reveals glaciers, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Watch for sea otters, seals, whales, and seabirds as you cruise past the impressive face of Meares Glacier. Then continue your journey with an Alaska cruise through the scenic Inside Passage. Explore glacier-carved waterways, coastal communities, and some of Alaska's most iconic landscapes as this memorable land and sea adventure showcases the best of the Last Frontier.

Skirt along the entire rugged coastline to see the highlights on this Ireland tour.

Enter an untouched paradise on an adventure through the Azores, the archipelago gems of Portugal. Explore the rim of the Sete Cidades Caldera. Indulge in a traditional cozido das furnas meal, cooked by the heat of the volcanic earth. Descend into Algar do Carvao, the “Cavern of Coal” lava tube, with an expert guide. Enjoy a home-hosted meal during your stay on São Miguel Island and on Terceira Island. Encounter the volcanic ash-covered landscape of the Capelinhos Volcano. From thermal pools and lush craters to local farms and volcanic cuisine, delve into the culture of Portuguese island life.

Discover the natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and coastal charm of Northern California on a journey through some of the Golden State's most celebrated landscapes. Explore San Francisco's famous hills, waterfront districts, and landmark sights before venturing into the scenic wine country of Sonoma Valley for a tasting at a family-owned winery. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park, where granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient forests create one of America's most spectacular natural settings. Continue to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks to stand among some of the world's largest trees, including the awe-inspiring General Sherman Tree. Along California's rugged coastline, visit Monterey and charming Carmel-by-the-Sea before enjoying the spectacular views along the famed 17-Mile Drive. As night falls, experience stargazing beneath some of California's darkest skies and enjoy special stays in national park lodges surrounded by extraordinary natural beauty. PLUS, this tour includes your choice of excursions in Yosemite 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 13-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. But the adventure doesn’t end there. Your desert dreams awaken even more mystery with the treasures of Jordan—from 4-wheeling in the red landscapes of Wadi Rum where your camp feels close enough to reach out and touch the stars above, to the spectacular sandstone monolith of Petra that conjures visions of Indiana Jones and ancient rulers resting in the ancient sandstone tombs of the Treasury. Sip tea in the ancient traditions and soak in the ancient sites surrounding the Dead Sea where some of civilization’s earliest history was recorded amid the horizons where Moses saw the Promised Land. A Bedouin experience to rival ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ in color, scope, and sheer beauty.

Journey through a crossroads of civilizations in Sicily and on to the spectacular coastlines of Southern Italy. Uncover Sicily’s capital Palermo and its Moorish and Norman influences. Explore Agrigento’s ancient Valley of the Temples and the Ancient Roman mosaics of Piazza Armerina. Travel to the historic hilltop town of Taormina. Visit a local winery for a wine tasting and agriturismo dinner. Venture to the ancient cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera. Explore Sorrento and stunning Positano, the pearl of the Amalfi Coast. Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in the excavated Pompeii. Allow the unique culture to capture your heart and get a glimpse into an age-old heritage composed of ancient monuments and cultivated lands.

This Globus Independent tour through Cambodia and Thailand introduces you to the best of each country. Start in Siem Reap with visits to the magnificently preserved temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple—with some 200 faces carved into 54 towers. You’ll also visit the exquisite 10th-century Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm, where ancient jungle tree roots wind through the temple ruins. “Thailand” translates to “land of the free” and we think it’s about time that you free yourself from the typical to explore this fascinating destination with the free time you crave on a Globus Independent vacation. Start your exploration with a boat ride through Bangkok’s canals, or klongs, to see family homes and temples—you’ll quickly see why they call this city “Venice of the East.” Next, visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn, and the Grand Palace, which houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Lastly, stop at the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok, featuring one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. You’ll also have free time to explore more of Bangkok and other nearby attractions including Damnoen Saduak floating market and the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. In Chiang Rai, travel to the “Golden Triangle” where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, tour a local tea plantation, and explore Wat Rong Khun. You’ll also visit several interesting hill tribes and learn about their culture. In Chiang Mai, explore the most popular temples and visit an amazing elephant sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts of orphaned and rescued elephants. End your stay in Thailand with a three-night stay at a beachfront resort in Phuket. Explore the area at your leisure or simply relax at the beach!

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. 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.

Escape into a world of ancient tradition and modern marvels on this Globus Escapes tour of Japan. From the captivating capital city of Tokyo to the moving memorials of Hiroshima and the magnificent temples and shrines Kyoto, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds in the off-season to savor each stunning scene, sumptuous cuisine, and serene natural beauty. Enjoy the ancient art of Japanese tea traditions, be whisked away on the famous shinkansen (bullet train), wander through 400-year-old gardens, and wonder at the natural beauty of Nara Park’s free-roaming deer and dazzling lanterns of Kasuga Shrine. Your adventure in Japan continues by shinkansen bound for Osaka, where the timeless traditions of tempting cuisine give way to a city coming to life in the bright lights of Minami by night. This spectacular tour of Japan is the perfect escape for off-season travel from Tokyo to Osaka and every incredible sight in between!