Chantelle was an amazing tour leader on the gozo-Malta leg of the tour. We saw some most amazing places. Chantelle was very knowledgeable on the history of this region. Would highly recommend this tour.
Wonderful trip! I strongly recommend several of the Optional Experiences to make the most of your time, including the sunset boat trip in Paris (you see the Eiffel Tower aglow!), walking tour of Hidden Venice, and walking tour of the Colosseum in Rome.
Be prepared to walk a lot (I hit 10-14k steps most days!) Be prepared for early mornings.
Marvel at Gaudi’s masterpieces in Barcelona, spot locals sipping pastis in Nice and admire Florence the home of Michelangelo and the Renaissance, as you circle the azure waters of the Mediterranean. Embrace the city of Pisa with a stop at the famous leaning tower, where Italian astronomer Galileo was said to have pioneered his theories of gravity. In France, work up an appetite in the medieval streets. In Spain, dine with the locals in Basque tradition with an evening of San Sebastian pintxos tastings, snack-sized tapas, while sipping on a refreshing glass of local Txakoli wine. In Rome, taste the seasonal flavours and of course, handmade pasta.
From Amsterdam to Rome and onto Paris, this grand tour takes in Cinque Terre, abundant Florence sightseeing and a delectable Lucerne Dine Around evening. Start your tour with a curated cruise through the canals led by local experts—the perfect introduction to the Netherlands. Onwards in style into Germany, the Rhine's UNESCO world heritage sites give way to the golden city of Prague—where your local guide will lead you through the hilltop castle courtyards and the grandiose St Vitus Cathedral or through the Jewish Quarter. A tour of Italy serves up the gondola-filled canals of Venice and the opulence of Rome, before Swiss delights beckon in Lucerne. Paris dazzles last with a chance to shop the city's boutiques like a local and enjoy views of iconic sights, including Notre-Dame and the Louvre.
I enjoyed the variety of places we visited. I especially liked having a local guide at each location to learn about the history and culture of each place. The only regret for me was that we couldn’t spend more time in Lake Bled. I liked that we were able to take the boats over to the island, but I would have also enjoyed seeing a view of the lake from a higher vantage point to be able to see the entire lake with the island in the middle. Otherwise, I was fully pleased with the itinerary of the tour.
Taste the essence of Portugal and Spain as you wander through historic cities with rich culture and vintage wines. Explore Lisbon, where narrow Moorish streets meet expansive squares and a castle that overlooks a vibrant, cultural scene below. Walk the scenic Ribeira waterfront in Porto, a Portuguese harbor city and home to Port wine. Enjoy a relaxing 2-night stay on the grounds of a winery in the Douro River Valley. Visit the lively city of Salamanca, before touring Bilbao and San Sebastián and get up close with the local culture of the Basque Country, one of the most renowned Spanish regions for food and wine. Savor this journey along rolling hills, distinct cultures, curving coasts, and twisting vines.
Althea, our tour leader was the most knowledgeable, caring, professional young woman. She showcased Gozo and Malta through a local perspective. She is a tremendous asset to Explore. For travellers wanting to experience the history, culture and everyday life of Gozo and Malta, this is an excellent trip.
I thoroughly enjoyed this trip, a wonderful combination of history, culture, food, and extraordinary natural beauty, not to mention magnificent monuments from the ancient past. I really appreciated exploring the islands on foot (the walks and hikes), the chances to swim, cool down (I’m not used to the heat!) and enjoy amazing food and good company. I truly fell in love with Greece. Our guide Peter was the BEST! I don’t think I’ve had a guide that matches him, he is “next level”. His love of Greece is infectious and matched only by his deep knowledge.
I recently had the opportunity to embark on a wonderful tour of Italy, and it was an experience that will forever hold a special place in my heart. From the moment I set foot in this beautiful country, I was captivated by its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Our journey began in Rome, where ancient ruins like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum transported us back in time. The grandeur of the Vatican City left me in awe, especially when I gazed upon Michelangelo's masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling. As we ventured north to Florence, I was enchanted by the art and culture of Tuscany. The Uffizi Gallery and Florence Cathedral were absolute highlights, and strolling along the Arno River at sunset was a truly romantic experience. Our tour continued to Venice, where the intricate canals and ornate architecture made me feel like I was in a fairytale. A gondola ride through the narrow waterways was a dream come true, and exploring the historic neighborhoods of San Marco and Dorsoduro was a delight.
Get to the heart of Albanian culture.
Delve beyond the sheep-dotted green landscapes to the cities and villages that span the country, all the way from Tirana to Saranda. Mingle with locals in rustic Agrotourisms, pick up a souvenir in the Neck of the Bazaar in Gjirokaster, drive along the Albanian Riviera, and walk across the historic Butrint. After a week of exploring, you’ll leave feeling like a local (if you can even bear to leave at all)
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