Grand Baltic Explorer
- Return flights
- 9 nights in 4-star hotels
- 13 meals: 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
10 days from
£2,149
was £2,249
Europe Escorted Tours & Guided Holidays
Escorted Tours & Guided Holidays to Europe
Scenic beauty, a fascinating artistic heritage and an epic history, all of this and more makes Europe a dream destination for curious travellers wanting a Europe guided tour. Lovely landscapes offer a diverse feast for the eyes, whether you head south to Spain and Italy, or east to Croatia and Bulgaria or explore some of it's most beautiful islands such as Sicily, Sardinia or Malta. Alternatively, right here at home in the UK, there are ‘wow’ moments aplenty as you can delve into the culture of the Isle of Man.
There are so many options and variety on our European tours. Discover the rich historical sites of Turkey - such as the legendary city of Troy or head to warmer climes to find beaches in all shapes and sizes, from dramatic and rugged to golden and idyllic. Then there’s Italy’s Tuscan hills, which are dotted with Cypress trees, while pastel-shaded houses cling precariously to the glorious coastline of Amalfi. And if you want to reach really dizzy heights, a holiday to the Swiss Alps offers jaw-dropping views in every direction. There’s a long list of man-made wonders to consider when choosing your European tour, too. Italy is crammed with treasures from top to toe, with Rome’s Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Florence’s Duomo for starters. The romance of France, and the magnificent Spain’s Alhambra Palace will leave you utterly spellbound. And you’ll wonder how on earth Greece’s Meteora Monasteries were built on towering rocks in the 11th century. The chance to step back in time is never too far away wherever your travels take you, with well-preserved historic treasures around every corner. Delve into the seemingly endless alleyways in Malta, where the Knights of St John would have roamed in the 14th century. Or stroll through Italy’s myriad medieval villages, which stand to this day untouched by time. Ponder life back in 79AD when the well-to-do city of Pompeii was smothered in hot ash by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. And you can walk in gladiators’ footsteps in Roman amphitheatres scattered right across the land. Sightseeing aside, a wonderful way to experience your chosen European holiday hot spot is through its cuisine. A cheese fondue, Kalamata olives, nutty olive oil, sun-ripened tomatoes, fish freshly plucked from the sea, earthy truffles – each country, and each region boasts its own specialities. And nothing quite beats breaking bread with the locals, or drinking a glass of wine in the very vineyard where the grapes were grown.
We’re delighted to have received the World Travel and Tourism Councils (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp, which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world. Find out more >
Destinations in Europe
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Turkey
Turkey
Sitting astride two continents, a position that has given rise to a culture that reflects both East and West, our holiday packages to Turkey show a country where European aspirations mix comfortably with Asian traditions. With a heritage stretching farther back than the Byzantine Empire and even the Trojan War, the country we now know as Turkey has seen some of the most important events in all of human history.
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Bulgaria
Bulgaria
With a beguiling blend of nature and history, you're guaranteed an unforgettable adventure in Bulgaria. The keen explorer simply cannot resist being helplessly drawn to the freshening sea breeze and miles of turquoise water characteristic of Bulgaria’s coast, and many cities feel the benefits of this refreshing ambiance.
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Croatia
Croatia
An escorted tour to Croatia offers the opportunity to discover a country that has, in recent times, become one of the most popular destinations in Europe thanks to a rewarding mix of sublime scenery and towns and cities that are positively brimming with history.
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Finland
Finland
From winter magic to irresistible summers; wild beauty to contemporary culture, you can expect vitality and excitement whenever during the year you visit Finland. Known as Suomi to the locals, Finland’s scenic landscapes are nothing short of extraordinary; whether you fancy photographing your way around fabulous parks or taking in beautiful coastline dotted with islands, we're sure you'll be able to indulge your nature-loving side.
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France
France
France is a fantastic place for a holiday. Everywhere you go, there’s something new and exciting to experience. Here no two regions are the same, and whether you prefer captivating countryside chateaus or stylish seaside resorts, you're all but guaranteed a good time. Plus, there’s the added benefit of not having too long a journey; at its shortest, France lies just 20 miles off the coast of Kent and is easily accessible using all major transport methods.
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Greece
Greece
Widely regarded as the birthplace of Western civilisation, Greece is an enticing destination for culture vultures and history buffs (though if you're happier taking in beautiful landscapes and exploring new places, you won’t miss out!). An array of archaeological gems offers much insight into this country’s vast and ancient heritage.
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Hungary
Hungary
The crowning jewel of Central Europe, Hungary is a truly awe-inspiring place to visit; studded with a mixture of architectural landmarks and grand neoclassical buildings, this is the place to be when it comes to enjoying a unique, enriching travel experience. There’s a prominent Turkish and Roman influence in the country’s culture – evident in the popularity of mineral spas – which only serves to make holidaymakers fall in love with it even more.
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Iceland
Iceland
Defined by its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields, Iceland is one of the world's most spectacular places. If you're a nature lover, there's no better place on the planet to admire breathtaking views and dramatic backdrops.
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Italy
Italy
If you’re looking for a holiday packed with adventure, Italy is where you should go. A land of warmth and beauty, Italy is the place for fine art, fine food and fine living – a toast to the heritage of Europe’s favourite (and only!) boot-shaped country! Escorted tours of Italy with Travelsphere are an excellent way to make the most of this enchanting destination.
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Lithuania
Lithuania
If you want to be enchanted on your holidays, Lithuania is the place to go. Tradition and folklore are deeply ingrained into Lithuanian culture; here, songs, stories and tales only serve to enhance the quietly eccentric vibe that abounds within this beautiful country.
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Austria
Austria
The stuff of fairy tales, Austria is famously beautiful. Characterized by mountain villages, baroque architecture, Imperial history and rugged Alpine terrain, no other country waltzes so elegantly between the urban and the rural mode of life.
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United Kingdom
United Kingdom
There's a reason why we call the UK our very own green and pleasant land; boasting a unique heritage and unrivalled history, it's the envy of many other nations. From pulsing cities to stunning countryside, you’ll find a wide range of things to see and do here. The shared culture and distinct local flavours that contribute to the UK really must be seen to be believed.
Absolutely amazing trip - Travelsphere took care of everything while we sailed round exquisite islands finding hidden gems or places of historical interest at every stop. Highly recommend
Charlotte Field
Europe Touring Holidays Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best tours to Europe
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Europe has an array of exciting destinations from Italy to Turkey to Croatia and many more, here's some good tours for you to choose from.
Italy has so much to offer from the colosseum to Pompeii to Venice – all locations you definitely won’t want to miss! To cover all these you will need to take the Grand Tour of Italy. 15 days exploring the country from Venice to Catania, Rome, Sorrento and Sicily on route!
Turkey tantalises the senses on our Treasures of Turkey holiday. You’ll go from the hustle and bustle of the grand bazaar to watching the sunset with wine in hand at Love valley, enjoying archaeological sites, mosques and hot springs along the way.
If the medieval era is your thing then our Discover Romania and enchanting Transylvania tour will be right up your street. You’ll visit Sibiu, with its 14th century Lutheran Cathedral. Go to Sighisoara, the birthplace of one of Transylvania's most notorious sons, Vlad the Impaler – the real-life inspiration for Dracula and of course you’ll stop off at Bran’s Castle itself! (better known as Dracula’s Castle) and visit a 300-year-old monastery – still home to several monks in Bucharest.
If island hopping is more your dream holiday then our Croatian Island hopping tour may float your boat. Travelling from Split to Solta and back again, on our luxury ship solely for our group! You’ll enjoy kayaking around the walls of Dubrovnik, swimming in secluded coves, bobbing around in an inflatable, and discovering interesting facts like ancient methods of air-conditioning, all accompanied by laughter and cheerful chatter of your shipmates!
- What are the highlights of Europe
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There is so much to see and enjoy across Europe from Germany’s architecture, to Frances artistic attractions and an array of historical sites in Italy.
Key attractions not to be missed on your tours are:
Italy – The Colosseum, built in AD 70-80 using travertine, limestone and volcanic rock, seating over 80,000 spectators, it was most famously known for its gladiator fights but it was also the arena for re-enactments of famous battles and executions. More remarkably, it was also the set for simulated sea battles! The arena would be filled with water so vessels could float in during the shows and drained rapidly afterwards.
Equally as interesting is the engineering behind this theatre. It had a retractable awning to protect its spectators from the bad weather! Also hidden beneath the colosseum was a warren of tunnels and cells which held the gladiators and animals captive before they were sent to fight.Another site not to miss in Italy is Pompeii – a 440,000 square meter town that was tragically engulfed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. Approximately 10 percent of the population died and the city was buried under lava and volcanic ash. The lava preserved the town which means you can walk the streets and see the well-preserved buildings such as the Lupanare (brothel), and thermopolium (the Roman equivalent of fast food).
France - The famous Eiffel Tower, at the centre of Champ de Mars in Paris, built to be the entrance to the World's Fair in1889.This world famous structure has not always been admired though, in fact Engineer Gustave Eiffel was greatly criticised by locals, calling it a monstrosity! Never did he or they imagine quite how successful and important a structure it would be today, with its 81 floors of exhibits, viewing decks, cafes and gift shops.
Venice – The floating city. A romantic location with over 118 islands connected by the canals that run through Venice. Grab a gondola and sit back, relax and take in the scenery.
Romania – Dracula’s Castle - Bram Stoker’s 1897 Gothic, horror novel Dracula may be imaginary, but the castle isn’t. It was the real life setting of the sinister novel and is located just outside of Brasov in Romania. Officially known as Bran Castle it includes all the weapons and armour that is mentioned in Bram’s book. As for the blood-sucker himself, Bram used Vlad the Impaler as his muse. A ruler who was notorious for brutal torture and demise of in excess of 10,000 people during his reign.
Turkey – Turkey has an array of wonders to offer from Mosques to palaces, to hot springs and the famous bazaars
- What is the food like in Europe?
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There is so much delicious food to be tasted across Europe and such a variety from one country to another. From delightful seafood in Portugal, Greece and Croatia to perfect pasta dishes in Italy and world-famous desserts in Austria.
While in Romania you can try stuffed cabbage rolls and in Turkey, anyone with a sweet tooth must try the ancient, traditional pastry dessert of baklava.
There really is something for everyone.