Festivals & Special Events Tours & Trips 2020
41 trips to Festivals & Special Events tours from 94 tour companies. 1,652 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.
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DEPARTURE DATES
Travel Style
Travel Style
Relaxed A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Full on For those looking to maximize their sight seeing time. You thrive on a packed day’s schedule from 8 am to 6pm, with some (but limited) free time. Most activities and meals included.
Mixed You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Trip Type
Trip Type
Group Tour Groups are between 25-60 people, typically ~30-40. Usually there will be many opportunities to split off and enjoy meals and excursions in smaller groups. This is the most economical way to travel, saving up to 40% versus booking the same itinerary yourself.
Small Group Tour Small groups are usually defined as between 10 and 24 travelers, often less. If you're the kind of person who enjoys more intimate experiences and personal service this is a good choice. All else being equal you will pay a premium for this style vs a larger group tour.
River Cruise These vessels are smaller than most ocean cruisers, limiting which amenties are available. Passenger counts can vary. One of the biggest advantages of a river cruise is the ability to dock at smaller ports and local villages.
Small Ship Cruise Small ship cruises usually have a max passenger count of 500. The primary purpose of these trips is to spend time off the vessel in local ports (e.g. Mediterranean) or experiencing nature (e.g Galapagos or Antarctica). Cabins can vary from budget to luxury.
Private Guided Private tours give you the undivided attention of a guide, and often involve special access to sites and unique experiences not available to larger groups. This is a great option for families, couples, and small friend groups. Expect to pay a bit more for the extra service.
Self Guided / Independent Tour A travel company plans your itinerary and arranges all the logistics including lodging, local activities, and transportantion. You have the flexibility of a solo trip while still getting the convience and time savings of expert planning. Get 90% of the benefits of a tour, without a guide.
Vacation / Holiday Package Similar to a self guided tour, this usually involves a home base, such as a hotel or resort, with packaged activities and day tours as a part of the stay.
Large Ship Cruise This is the "floating city" experience, with multiple ways to enjoy your vacation aboard the ship as much as on land. Ships are multiple floors, provide several activities, culinary, and shopping options. They often make fewer stops and have less time available for shore excursions.
Itinerary Focus
Lodging Level
Lodging Level
Camping Typically involves most nights sleeping in tents (sometimes permanent tented sites) or in rustic cabins and lodges.
Basic - 2 star You'll stay in no-frills, but clean and comfortable, hotels or guesthouses. A 'Basic' trip might also involve a few nights of camping.
Value - 3 star Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Premium - 4 star 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Luxury - 5 star The highest level of comfort and service. All accomodations are in four or five star hotels, boutique lodges or high-end homestays.
Price
Duration Dropdown
Countries Visited
Physical Level
Physical Level
Very Easy Minimal walking - motor vehicles available for all major parts of trip.
Easy Normal generally flat walking in urban or suburban environments.
Moderate Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment.
Strenuous All or most of day hiking or biking, hills included.
Extreme Very challenging all day hiking and backpacking carrying significant equipment.
Travel Theme
Travelers Age
Rivers & Seas Visitied
Attractions & Cities Visited
Activities & Interests
Solo Friendly
Solo Friendly
Good for Singles Trips that specifically cater to travelers looking to meet other singles.
No Single Supplement Trips where single supplement is usually not required for solo travelers.
Supplier (Company)
Flight & Transport Inclusions
Continents Visited
No filters applied
Papua New Guinea National Mask Festival
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
9 days
$ 402 / day
$ 3,620
From :
$ 4,887
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style :
You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Mixed
Physical Level :
Regular walking or cycling over moderately long, hilly, or bumpy distances. Some public transport or utility vehicles such as safari jeeps.
Moderate
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Marvel at an active volcano, tuck into a shoreline barbecue and experience a traditional sing-sing in the Duke of York Islands
- Discover how the World Wars played out in the Pacific. Visit the War Museum in Rabaul and head underground for a tour of the Japanese tunnels in Kokopo
- Be mesmerised by the chants of the Kinavai ceremony as the canoes paddle across the magical dawn
- There's nothing in the world like the Baining fire dance. Watch as men engulf themselves in flames to the beat of the bamboo drum and escape unharmed
- Gain an insight into small village industry on a day trip to the tiny Matupit Island
- Relax and unwind at the plush Rapopo Plantation Resort when it's all over
York, Australia, Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea Firedance Festival
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
9 days
$ 373 / day
$ 3,360
From :
$ 4,536
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style : N/A
Physical Level :
Regular walking or cycling over moderately long, hilly, or bumpy distances. Some public transport or utility vehicles such as safari jeeps.
Moderate
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- As a small group, be welcomed into a local village and watch as traditional Baining dancers circle a growing fire and perform dancing rituals – a insight into one of Papua New Guinea’s indigenous cultures.
- Spend time before and after the performance learning more about these traditional customs, sharing meals, stories and laughs with local community members.
- Jump straight into island life of the Duke of York Islands, marvelling at an active volcano, tucking into a beachside barbecue and experiencing a traditional sing-sing with the villagers.
- Discover how the World Wars played out in the Pacific, by visiting the War Museum in Rabaul and heading underground for a tour of the Japanese tunnels in Kokopo.
- Head with your expert local leader to Matupit – an ‘island’ dwarfed in the shadow of Tavurvur Volcano looming overhead – to visit the local community, their markets and streets.
York, Australia, Papua New Guinea
Mexico City: Day of the Dead Original
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
5 days
$ 214 / day
$ 1,070
From :
$ 1,445
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style :
You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Mixed
Physical Level :
Minimal walking. Motor vehicles for all major parts of trip. Wheelchair friendly (check for individual trips). Most cruises.
Very Easy
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Fiesta the night away in Mexico City and get into the true spirit of this haunting ceremonial festival.
- Get the low-down on all of the traditions and rituals of the Day of the Dead festival, including taking part in making your own traditional altar offering.
- Get a taste of local art with a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum in the Coyoacan neighbourhood. Check out the works in her former home, with her art often focused on the notion of death.
- Explore the historic town of Tepoztlan – a mecca for artists and mystics, with a magical feel in the air. Tour the ancient city and ruins, and climb to the top of the Tepozteco pyramid.
- All of these festivities will work up an appetite. Luckily Mexico City boasts some of Central America’s best food – from roadside taco stands to fine dining in the heart of the city, you won’t go hungry.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City: Day of the Dead Comfort
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
5 days
$ 227 / day
$ 1,135
From :
$ 1,396
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style :
You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Mixed
Physical Level :
Minimal walking. Motor vehicles for all major parts of trip. Wheelchair friendly (check for individual trips). Most cruises.
Very Easy
Lodging Level :
3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Comfort (4*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Fiesta the night away in Mexico City and get into the true spirit of this haunting ceremonial festival.
- Get the low-down on all of the traditions and rituals of the Day of the Dead festival, including taking part in making your own traditional altar offering.
- Get a taste of local art with a visit to the Frida Kahlo Museum in the Coyoacan neighbourhood. Check out the works in her former home, with her art often focused on the notion of death.
- Explore the historic town of Tepoztlan – a mecca for artists and mystics, with a magical feel in the air. Tour the ancient city and ruins, and climb to the top of the Tepozteco pyramid.
- All of these festivities will work up an appetite. Luckily Mexico City boasts some of Central America’s best food – from roadside taco stands to fine dining in the heart of the city, you won’t go hungry.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mongolia's Naadam Festival
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
15 days
$ 211 / day
$ 3,160
From :
$ 4,266
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style :
You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Mixed
Physical Level :
Regular walking or cycling over moderately long, hilly, or bumpy distances. Some public transport or utility vehicles such as safari jeeps.
Moderate
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Go behind the scenes of Mongolia's Naadam Festival and visit the athlete's training camps as they prepare to compete in the Naadam Festival.
- Live the nomad life with a family stay at a horse breeder's camp.
- Experience the phenomenal landscapes of central Mongolia.
- Attend the Naadam Opening Ceremony and watch athletes compete for glory in wrestling, horse racing and archery.
- Encounter Mongolia's stunning natural landscape with visits to places such as the Flaming Cliffs and sand dunes of Khongoriin.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Rio Carnival Experience
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
6 days
$ 312 / day
$ 1,870
From :
$ 2,525
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style :
You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Mixed
Physical Level :
Some walking over short or flat distances. Some trips may include cycling options. Some are wheelchair friendly (check for individual trips). Some cruises.
Easy
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Perfect your samba steps at a local club and learn how to blend in with the Carioca crowds, a great introduction for your first night in this pulsating city.
- Witness a parade of elaborate floats and costumes as samba dancers show off their moves in the Sambadrome – a party that stretches well into the early hours.
- Leave the guidebook at home and get to know the rhythms of Rio on a city tour of the top sites. See Christ the Redeemer up close and soak up sweet views from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Be a part of the biggest stage in the world – don a costume and take part in the parade – dancing your way down the Sambadrome runway, a truly once in a lifetime experience.
- Experience the best of Carnival under the safe and knowledgeable guidance of your expert leader. They’re on hand to make sure you have a hassle-free, fun-filled adventure!
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Argentina
Halloween in Transylvania (Southbound)
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
7 days
$ 176 / day
$ 1,230
From :
$ 1,661
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style : N/A
Physical Level :
Some walking over short or flat distances. Some trips may include cycling options. Some are wheelchair friendly (check for individual trips). Some cruises.
Easy
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Transylvania conjures up images of haunted castles, gothic churches and vampires. Where better to spend time around Halloween than in the 12th-century town of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Count Dracula? Things are about to get medi-evil
- Break out your scariest costumes for a spooky Halloween party in Cluj Napoca, the former capital of the historical principality of Transylvania
- Protect yourself against devils and demons with a visit to the Turda Salt Mines, a fascinating museum showcasing the history of salt in the region complete with an underground amusement park
- Delve into the communist past and the thriving, artistic present-day vibe of Bucharest, a city often underrated by travellers. The grand architecture of the 1980’s Palace of the Parliament is particularly awe-inspiring
- A stopover in the traditional Saxon village of Viscri exposes you to Romanian hospitality and some finger-licking home-cooked food
Brasov, Bucharest, Romania, Transylvania
Europe Christmas Markets: Munich to Budapest
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
8 days
$ 238 / day
$ 1,905
From :
$ 2,572
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style :
You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Mixed
Physical Level :
Some walking over short or flat distances. Some trips may include cycling options. Some are wheelchair friendly (check for individual trips). Some cruises.
Easy
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- This trip takes you to a variety of Christmas markets across central Europe. Contrast the various traditions, cuisines and of course, mulled wine, in several amazing cities
- Munich's Christmas markets are probably the most famous of them all. Authentic Bavarian food, ale and music make this an unforgettable Christmas experience
- Explore Salzburg’s markets and travel high above the rooftops of the Baroque historical district to the fully preserved castle, the Hohensalzburg Fortress
- Vienna's Christmas markets are as ornamental as its architecture. Austria's capital provides a spectacular seasonal shopping affair, with tonnes of hand-crafted toys, candles and paintings on offer. Where better to pick up those last-minute gifts?
- Jolly Budapest really embraces the Christmas spirit. Take a walk through the streets to find every street, tree and market lit up in lights
Budapest, Munich, Salzburg, Vienna, Austria, Germany, Hungary
Halloween in Transylvania (Northbound)
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
7 days
$ 177 / day
$ 1,240
From :
$ 1,674
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style : N/A
Physical Level :
Some walking over short or flat distances. Some trips may include cycling options. Some are wheelchair friendly (check for individual trips). Some cruises.
Easy
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Transylvania conjures up images of haunted castles, gothic churches and vampires. Where better to spend time around Halloween than in the 12th-century town of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Count Dracula? Things are about to get medi-evil
- Break out your scariest costumes for a spooky Halloween party in Cluj Napoca, the former capital of the historical principality of Transylvania
- Protect yourself against devils and demons with a visit to the Turda Salt Mines, a fascinating museum showcasing the history of salt in the region complete with an underground amusement park
- Delve into the communist past and the thriving, artistic present-day vibe of Bucharest, a city often underrated by travellers. The grand architecture of the 1980’s Palace of the Parliament is particularly awe-inspiring
- A stopover in the traditional Saxon village of Viscri exposes you to Romanian hospitality and some finger-licking home-cooked food
Brasov, Bucharest, Romania, Transylvania
Christmas Markets of Austria, Germany and Switzerland
8 days
$ 194 / day
$ 1,595
From :
$ 2,093
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style : N/A
Physical Level :
Regular walking or cycling over moderately long, hilly, or bumpy distances. Some public transport or utility vehicles such as safari jeeps.
Moderate
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- SIGHTSEEING TOUR with a Local Specialist in Vienna and Salzburg
- ORIENTATION of Munich, Oberammergau, Innsbruck and Lucerne
- SEE stunning alpine scenery
- VIEW Mozart's birthplace in Salzburg, the Marienplatz in Munich, the Golden Roof in Innsbruck and the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge in Lucerne
- VISIT the Christmas Markets of Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, Innsbruck and Lucerne and Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein
Bavaria, Innsbruck, Lucerne, Munich, Vienna, Austria, Germany, Switzerland
Festive St. Petersburg and Moscow
7 days
$ 239 / day
$ 1,674
From :
$ 2,260
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style : N/A
Physical Level :
Regular walking or cycling over moderately long, hilly, or bumpy distances. Some public transport or utility vehicles such as safari jeeps.
Moderate
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- SIGHTSEEING TOUR with a Local Specialist in St. Petersburg and Moscow
- SMALL GROUP SIGHTSEEING visit to the home of the Tsars on a guided tour with a group size of fewer than 25 guests, exploring the treasures of St. Petersburg's Hermitage Museum
- VIEW the Tsar's Winter Palace, Nevsky Prospekt, St. Isaac's Cathedral and the statue of Peter the Great in St. Petersburg and Red Square and St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow
- VISIT the Peter and Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg and the Kremlin in Moscow
Moscow, St. Petersburg, Russia
German Christmas Markets
8 days
$ 191 / day
$ 1,550
From :
$ 2,059
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style : N/A
Physical Level :
Regular walking or cycling over moderately long, hilly, or bumpy distances. Some public transport or utility vehicles such as safari jeeps.
Moderate
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- ORIENTATION of Frankfurt, Rothenburg, Nuremberg, Weimar, Dresden and Leipzig
- SIGHTSEEING TOUR with a Local Specialist in Berlin
- VIEW the Opera House and Zwinger Palace in Dresden and the Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag Building in Berlin
- VISIT the Christmas Markets of Rothenburg, Nuremberg, Wartburg Castle in Eisenach, Erfurt, Weimar, Dresden, Leipzig and Berlin. Ascend the Berlin TV Tower
Berlin, Dresden, Frankfurt, Leipzig, Nuremberg, Germany
Discover Japan
12 days
$ 350 / day
$ 4,199
From :
$ 9,897
The strike-through price reflects either the high season trip price or the average price a traveler pays for a similar itinerary when the components are booked separately.
Travel Style :
You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Mixed
Physical Level :
Some walking over short or flat distances. Some trips may include cycling options. Some are wheelchair friendly (check for individual trips). Some cruises.
Easy
Lodging Level :
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Value (3*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Explore historic Imperial Palace (Tokyo)
- See the majestic Mt. Fuji
- Visit Hakone National Park
- Opportunity to see the Shirakawago (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Visit Ancient town in Takayama
- Sightseeing in Kyoto
Hakone, Hiroshima, Imperial Palace, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Mount Fuji, Osaka, Shirakawa, Tokyo, Japan
Magnificent Europe (Christmas Cruise)
Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
15 days
$ 373 / day
$ 5,599
Travel Style :
A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Relaxed
Physical Level :
Some walking over short or flat distances. Some trips may include cycling options. Some are wheelchair friendly (check for individual trips). Some cruises.
Easy
Lodging Level :
3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Comfort (4*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Visit Medieval Gothic Cathedral at Cologne
- Explore Regensburg
- Discover Nuremberg
- Explore Würzburg
- Visit the Residenz Palace and gardens
- Visit multiple Christmas Markets on the scenic river route from Budapest to Amsterdam
Amsterdam, Bamberg, Bavaria, Cologne, Koblenz, Munich, Nuremberg, Vienna, Wachau, Austria, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands
Christmas in the Heart of Germany (WNF)
8 days
Check price
Travel Style :
A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Relaxed
Physical Level :
Some walking over short or flat distances. Some trips may include cycling options. Some are wheelchair friendly (check for individual trips). Some cruises.
Easy
Lodging Level :
3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Comfort (4*)
Highlights
Visits:
- Explore Germany and Czech Republic Country.
- Enjoy the Cruise through Main River.
- Experience the culture of Nuremberg, Bamberg and Würzburg
Bamberg, Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Prague, Czech Republic, Germany
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Top Festivals & Special Events Experiences and Attractions
Top Festivals & Special Events Experiences
Joining in the party at New Orleans’ Mardi Gras or Rio’s Carnaval; will it be catching beads or sampling the samba?
Floating over New Mexico’s high desert at Albuquerque’s hot air Balloon Fiesta
Braving the firecrackers and embracing the fervor at India’s Diwali, the Festival of Light
Downing a few liters of beer (and dancing on the tables) at Munich’s boisterous Oktoberfest
Getting splattered by fresh tomatoes and then plastering others with same at Spain’s one-of-a-kind La Tomatina
Running with the bulls (if you dare) at Pamplona’s notorious San Fermin fest
Grooving to the vibes at Montreal’s Jazz Festival
Taking in the spectacle of lion dances and marching bands at San Francisco’s colorful Chinese New Year celebration
Bathing in mud at South Korea’s Boryeong Mud Festival
Absorbing the local culture at Mexico’s Cinco de Mayo or Day of the Dead festivities
Festivals & Special Events Trip Reviews
1,652 Festivals & Special Events Tour Reviews - Summary 98% Recommend
All Festivals & Special Events tours, river cruises, expedition cruises, and adventure trips. Find the best guided trips and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Average rating of 4.7 for all Festivals & Special Events trips.
41 trips from 94 tour companies with 1,652 reviews
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