I concluded the UK/Ireland/France trip in mid-October and am still
raving about it. Trip well-organized, and very knowledgeable guides. Can’t wait to travel again.
This European adventure combines the must-sees of the Balkan region and the lesser-known glories of North Macedonia and Albania – creating the perfect balance between old and new. Hang out in Dubrovnik's Old Town, cruise around Lake Ohrid, hike the foot hills of Mt Olympus and in Pelister National Park, and sample some regional specialties in Greece's capital. You’ll experience the Adriatic coastline and the Balkans interior on a 15-day regional wrap from Dubrovnik to Athens. With a curated selection of inclusions and plenty of free time, this slice of Europe is all yours to explore.
Adventure in premium style from the vibrant streets of Amman to the magical landscape of Wadi Rum and world wonder of Petra.
Float on the Dead Sea before bathing in its healing mud. Flying to Cairo, stand in awe against the Pyramids and roam its chaotic bazaars. Ride to bustling port city of Alexandria and stand beside the ruins of the Great Library of Alexandria. Taking a comfortable flight to Luxor, sail the wonders of the Nile for 5 days on a Nile Cruiser.
This was a busy itinerary which gave us the opportunity to visit several places that we have been dreaming of seeing. Our tour director was fabulous. He communicated the schedule for the day and we didn’t feel stressed, instead we enjoyed the many beautiful cities
I thoroughly enjoyed my journey from Madrid, through Portugal, and into Morocco, including the desert extension. The group leaders were fantastic, and the itinerary was thoughtfully organized. The local guides were outstanding, and the accommodations were comfortable, adding to the overall experience.
Marvel at the wonders of Jordan and Egypt on a cultural adventure.
Explore Jordan’s rich history including the ruins of Jerash and Ajloun. Camp overnight in the desert of Wadi Rum and float in the Dead Sea. Be awestruck by the Red Rose City of Petra before heading to bustling markets of Cairo. Cruise along the Nile from Aswan to Luxor in a 5 star Nile Cruiser. Soak up the Egyptian history as you discover the Pyramids of Giza, Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel and more.
Best bang for your buck. The only way to see as much of Europe as we did in 18 days. Often times you do not have very much time in certain cities/towns, but the travel directors do their best to make sure you hit the highlights and have a good experience. You just have to know going in that this is an introductory trip to all the wonders of Europe. That being said, we had a fantastic time. No real complaints other than feeling short on time in some locations,, as expected. Would highly recommend for someone’s first experience in Europe and I even enjoyed it as a repeat traveler as this tour went to some unique places such as Saint Paul de Vence and Colmar. Optional excursions were also all excellent and included meals at hotels were surprisingly good.
We’re both in our 60s and loved the concept of seeing iconic cities in one tour. Highlights for us were Cape Town and Agra, very well organized with knowledgeable guides. The early morning flights and long transfers were tiring, and there wasn’t much time to unpack before moving again. That said, we met lovely people and learned so much. We just wish we had more time in Singapore. They handled logistics impressively for such a big tour. Would recommend for flexible, energetic travelers.
Your adventure kicks off in Amman, Jordan! We'll sort your airport transfer, and you'll have a free evening to settle in. Next up, you'll explore the amazing Roman ruins at Jerash and discover Amman's highlights like the Citadel and Roman Theatre. You'll also get a taste of local life with a street food experience and pop into the unique Wild Jordan Centre in the evening. After Amman, you'll travel south along the scenic King's Highway. Along the way, you'll stop at Madaba (home of a famous mosaic map), take in the incredible views from Mount Nebo, and check out the old Shobak Castle before reaching Petra. Once in Petra, you'll have the evening free – maybe try the magical Petra by Night experience or join a fun Jordanian cooking class?
Get ready for a fantastic day exploring the incredible ancient city of Petra! You'll start with a guided walk through the stunning Siq canyon to the famous Treasury, and then you'll have free time to explore more sites like the Monastery at your own pace. Later, it's off to the spectacular desert scenery of Wadi Rum! You'll spend the night in a comfy Bedouin camp under the stars, enjoying a traditional dinner. Fancy a camel ride or some stargazing? Those are options too! The next morning kicks off with a thrilling jeep safari through Wadi Rum's amazing landscapes. Then, you'll head north to the Dead Sea for an overnight stay. You'll have plenty of time to experience that amazing floating sensation and maybe even try the therapeutic mud. If you're feeling adventurous and visiting at the right time of year, there's an optional trek through the nearby Wadi Mujib canyon too.
Leaving the Dead Sea behind, you'll fly from Amman to Cairo to start the Egyptian leg of your journey (we'll handle the transfers, but the flight cost is not included). Get ready to be amazed, because once in Egypt, your expert Egyptologist guide takes you to some truly iconic sights – the incredible Great Pyramids and the mysterious Sphinx watching over the Giza plateau! It's a real 'pinch me' moment. You'll even get to refuel with a delicious and authentic Koshary lunch, a bustling plate of Egyptian comfort food, before hopping on the overnight train heading south. The train journey itself is an experience, travelling through the night (you can upgrade to the sleeper train for extra comfort). Waking up refreshed, you'll arrive in Aswan, a relaxed city on the Nile. Here, you'll take a boat trip out to the stunningly relocated Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, on its island home. You'll also get a wonderful feel for local life with an overnight stay in a colourful Nubian village nearby, known for its warm hospitality. There's an unforgettable optional trip to see the colossal temples of Abu Simbel, built by Ramses II and saved from the rising waters of Lake Nasser – seeing them at sunrise is magical. Afterwards, it’s time to slow the pace right down as you board a traditional Nile felucca. Spend the afternoon peacefully sailing down the Nile, watching rural life unfold on the banks. Your Nubian crew will sail the boat, cook your meals, and maybe even entertain you with some local songs! You'll sleep on the deck under the stars (mattresses and blankets provided – it's basic but brilliant, though a hotel upgrade is possible if you prefer comfort!). After a final breakfast on the felucca, you'll say goodbye to the crew and travel north towards Luxor, often called the world's greatest open-air museum. On the way, you'll stop at the remarkably well-preserved Edfu Temple. Once in Luxor, you might want to see the grand Luxor Temple, beautifully lit up in the evening. The next day brings more wonders with a fascinating tour of Luxor's West Bank. You'll delve into the tombs of Pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings, marvel at the unique terraced Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and see the giant Colossi of Memnon. For a truly breathtaking perspective, an optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise over the West Bank is highly recommended! There might also be a chance to explore the vast Karnak Temple complex later on. Then it's time for the overnight train journey back to Cairo. Once there, you'll have a full day to explore this bustling capital. You could relax, wander independently, or perhaps join an optional tour – maybe delve into Coptic Cairo and the Citadel, discover the evolution of pyramids at Saqqara and Memphis, or take a guided walk through the vibrant chaos of the Khan-el-Khalili bazaar, soaking up the sounds, smells, and sights. On your final day, there's still time for some last-minute souvenir hunting or perhaps a visit to the incredible Egyptian Museum, home to countless ancient treasures including Tutankhamun's famous collection, before we take you to the airport for your flight home, full of amazing memories.
Accommodation is in comfortable mid-range hotels, Bedouin tents with proper beds in Wadi Rum, a friendly local Nubian guesthouse in Aswan, plus one night on board the felucca sailboat on the Nile.
Private tour option
If our scheduled departure dates don't work for you, or you would prefer not to travel with a group, then we can also run this tour privately for you. Please contact us for more information and prices
The perfect mix of seasides and cities, the Barcelona to London Quest kicks off in Barcelona, skirting the Mediterranean Sea before heading up through the middle of Italy and on to Eastern Europe, winding up in London after a perfectly balanced adventure.
Think just over a week isn't enough to get a good look at Europe? The London to Barcelona Quest is here to prove you wrong. Experience the contrast of the bustling city of Barcelona to the wine region of Bordeaux & the seaside San Sebastian to the monuments & museums of Paris. When you uncover France & Spain, you've truly entered the world of Europe.
