Best Italy Tour Companies
50 Travel Providers meet your criteria (Providers 1 to 20 shown)
Perillo Tours
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Total Trips 26 Trips
Average Price
$ 260 per day
Size Local Specialist
Tour Length 9 – 12 days
Trip Prices $ 2,395 – $ 2,990
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Italy
8 Tours in Italy
It was my dream to go to italy
It was my dream to go to italy, we went 2019 Perillo Tour and Angelica made my dream so memorable loved every minute. We are planning to go back 2022 Can’t wait!
Not worth your money
My Mom and I had the opportunity to visit Italy this summer on the 9 day Rome and Amalfi Coast Tour. Italy is a beautiful country and everyone needs to see and experience it before they die. However, I would NOT recommend Perillo Tours (PT). Here’s why: Introductions of group members were not done at the orientation. There are still people on the tour that I did not meet or know their names. And, we were only given the first couple of days of our itinerary, which was VERY broad and lacking detail. I am still in shock that it was HAND-WRITTEN and lacking so much important information. For example, it would say that Breakfast was at 7 and we would depart at 7:30, we would tour the Coliseum and the Roman Forum, have lunch, and we would return to hotel at 5:30. I had so many questions: Where is breakfast located? Where do we meet to depart as a group? How long is each part of the tour? How long will we be on our feet/in direct sunlight? Will bathrooms be accessible on the tour? What time is lunch? Where is lunch? How long do we have to eat lunch? In my opinion, these are valid questions that should have been written down on the itinerary that was given. I will say that some of these questions were addressed verbally, but it would have been more relaxing for me to have at least had approximate plans written down on the itinerary. In our orientation, we were told that water was provided on every bus. NOT TRUE. I asked for a water bottle and was told that only the bus ride to Amalfi would have water bottles. So yes, you guessed it. My Mom and I went most of the day without water. This was frustrating knowing that we had perfectly good water bottles in our room and that we were misinformed during orientation. I think that it is also important to note that on the tours you don’t always get to jump the lines. At all of the tour sites, we still had to get in the “tour group line” and wait our turn to go. Most of the time, we were standing in direct sunlight for 30+ minutes. Specifically, while we were waiting to tour the Blue Grotto at the Isle of Capri, we had to wait in a rocky boat for 45+ minutes. Keep in mind the conditions. It’s hot, humid, loud, and the fumes from ALL the boats is almost unbearable. Then the captain of the boat randomly decided to jump out of line and move our boat closer to the cliffs for some reason. This area of the water was full of waves and not an ideal spot to anchor a boat. Accurate time frames or time estimates are almost nonexistent with PT. Not only is this confusing and not helpful, but this was a trend of the entire tour. No one knew any answers and it almost felt like we were being misinformed or dare I say lied to. My Mom and I decided to do one of the optional tour add ons. We understood that it was at an additional fee, but thought it would be worth it. Long story short, it was not. This tour started at 2, so we had a short window to rest, eat lunch, and regroup. We were told the walking tour would be 2 hours. It ended up being 3.5 hours in the heat of the day, direct sunlight, with no bathroom breaks, and only two stops at fountains to refill our water bottles, per my requests. At this point, my Mom becomes ill. She is light headed, nauseated, and no longer able to walk at the pace of the group (probably due to the heat, lack of water, and fast-pace of the tour, but that’s just a wild hunch). I informed the tour guide of this and he responded loudly in front of other group members, “Well, what do you want me to do?!” I suggested that my Mom and I end the tour early and head back to the hotel in a cab. He told me that this was a pedestrian only part of town and that we would have to walk to find a cab pick-up area. He also made it very clear that PT would NOT pay for the cab ride. I was shocked to say the least that he did not seem to care that my Mom was sick and did not offer to help us in any way. When we arrived back at the hotel, we were given less than an hour to rest and get ready. So at this point, we had been up and moving in direct sunlight, with very little water for about 8 hours. Sounds relaxing and fun, right? My Mom was still feeling ill and was not able to go out for dinner with the rest of the group, so I asked PT to please send a meal from room service, so she could have dinner. PT would not accommodate this request because hotel room service was too expensive. Instead, they sent up a bucket of ice to our room. Confused about this? Yeah, we were too. At the restaurant, I was handed a to go bag of food to give to my Mom, but we didn’t arrive back to the hotel until 10 PM and in my opinion, mozzarella cheese and prosciutto was the last thing my Mom needed to eat that late. If a person cannot go out to dinner because they are ill from the tour, then room service should be provided by PT to help them feel better. I have so many more things to add, but not enough character space to do so. In summary, do NOT book with PT!
Every single thing went perfectly and smoothly and it was a dream come true
We took the North Classic Tour in Sept 2019. It was the dream vacation we had been hoping for and planning for 15 years! We added Sicily at the beginning and my grandparents’ hometown outside Milan at the end, using all of Perillo’s recommended hotels and drivers, etc. We cannot say enough about Perillo Tours. All of their personnel from Devin in the office who helped us plan and patiently & cheerily worked with us and answered our many questions, to Daniela, our tour host in Italy, who I never want to visit Italy again without! She is just so wrapped up into my memories of Italy that I can’t separate her from our trip. Her knowledge and help and professionalism were top-notch! She was fabulous. We absolutely loved our trip: every hotel, every restaurant, every excursion (we took them all!) and all local guides were excellent, and our tour bus comfortable and tour bus driver was the incomparable Stefano! I could go on and on. Our personal local drivers hired by Perillo to escort us through our grandparents’ villages were fabulous, and not only drove us, but educated us the entire time about everything we were seeing and were totally Invested in our finding family and any info we could find. And I cannot finish without saying, although we planned to keep to ourselves, we met four of the dearest friends we’ll ever have on day one of this trip. So much so that everyone thought the 6 of us came together. Every single thing went perfectly and smoothly and it was a dream come true. Thank you, Perillo!
10 Day Marco Polo
Trip Type: Small Group Tour
Founded in 1945, and headquartered in New Jersey, Perillo was a pioneering company in the guided travel industry.
What Makes Perillo Stand Out?
Destination expertise
Well-balanced itineraries
Generous and satisfying meals
First-rate hotels
Perillo has been a name in the tourism industry since the 1940s, known for operating tours of Italy. Today Italy is still their main focus, though they have expanded to offer limited departures in Hawaii, Greece, and Costa Rica.
They provide well thought out and classic itineraries, showcasing the traditional sights, nicely augmented with local insider knowledge. Perillo is a classic tour company, offering several trip options including custom tours, destination weddings, and traditional escorted group trips. On the trip, you’ll benefit from their extensive experience and destination knowledge.
They have a dedicated Italy brand, “Perillo Italy Tours”, which expands on their long legacy providing Italy guided experiences, as well as a “Learning Journeys” brand. Their learning journeys travel to many more destinations, and cover a very wide range of interests, including certification classes for certain skills.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Perillo?
Older travelers
Solo female travelers
Those interested in classic, custom, and themed tours
All ages are welcome on Perillo tours, however their type of travel may be more enjoyed by older travelers looking for a calm, fully managed tour. Perillo is a bit old fashioned. They do one thing and do it well, and haven’t changed much in the 60 years that they’ve been around. So if you’re looking for a traditional guided tour, busy but not with too many bells and whistles, Perillo is a great choice.
One unique offering through Perillo is their faith-based journeys. This was one of the first types of tours designed by Perillo. You can visit Greece and the Holy Land, as well as several important religious destinations in Italy.
For travelers seeking an authentic religious-themed travel experience Perillo’s extensive experience leading and planning these kinds of tours is nearly unmatched.
Custom trip options are also available through Perillo. These custom group experiences cover a wide range of interests including yoga / health and wellness retreats, festivals, and learning tours geared toward universities. If you’re planning a destination wedding or honeymoon they have services dedicated to this as well.
Their Learning Journeys are perfect for solo female travelers and enthusiastic life learnings passionate about learning new skills, languages, or diving deeper into the history of a certain destination and culture.
Top Destinations
Perillo is known for, and primarily focuses on, Italy tours. Here their breadth of knowledge is impressive as they began operating Italy tour packages in 1945. Perillo Italy tours cover the whole country, including Sicily, with special emphasis on classic sights and local eats.
Perillo also offers escorted tours in Hawaii, Greece, and Costa Rica.
Their “Learning Tours,” focus on niche educational travel and classes around the world, including Africa & the Middle East, Asia, and Australia.
Perillo Travel Style
Tried and true is Perillo’s style. They may not have the most flashiest or easily navigable website out there, or the most unique itineraries, but they know guided tours, they know Italy, and they stick with the classics.
Hotels, meals, and activities on Perillo tours have been personally vetted and experienced by the founder, and they have everything down to a science.
Perillo Itineraries are between 9-10 days on average, often focusing on cuisine and historical sights. Groups tend to be between 20 and 40 people, and they often arrange private departures for large groups such as families or wedding parties.
Special interest tours are another popular kind of itinerary offered through Perillo. In Italy, they offer a number of golf tours, faith-based tours, and culinary tours. Learning tours often focus on cooking, as well as art and history, science, and wildlife.
Why Choose a Tour With Perillo?
For an Italy tour that appreciates the standards and approaches their itineraries from a local point of view, Perillo is the place to go. Their tours operate from the major cities to the charming hill towns more off the beaten path. You'll have a carefully crafted tour with a thoughtful balance of sightseeing, free time, optional activities, and relaxation.
They are not the flashiest of tour companys, and their website is somewhat difficult to navigate to find all the options available - of which there are a good number. But they certainly have laurels to rest on given their extensive background and long historic legacy in guided tourism.
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Premier
Trafalgar
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Total Trips 3,896 Trips
Average Price
$ 329 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 32 days
Trip Prices $ 1,550 – $ 9,555
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Italy
586 Tours in Italy
Cancelled trip no refunds
Trafalgar cancelled our trip and now wants to take our money. We have a total of $30,000 invested in this trip for 11 people and cannot use vouchers for future use. stay away
thanks for the trip of a lifetime
Our guide for Italy and Sicily was so knowledgeable. If she did not know the answer, she found it by looking it up. Trafalgar see to your every need. We were so comfortable in every situation. Thanks for the trip of a lifetime.
I can't wait to travel with them again!
The guides are amazing and everyone does their best to accommodate the guests. There is ample free time to explore on one's own as well as optional extra excursions. I can't wait to travel with them again!
Great European
Trip Type: Group Tour
Grand European with Eurostar
Trip Type: Group Tour
Trafalgar is a name many seasoned travelers will recognize. A branch of the Travel Corporation, whose brands all enjoy stellar reputations, Trafalgar has been offering classic and affordable tours for over 70 years.
Trafalagar Tours - Quick Facts
Founded: in 1947
Group size: Large Groups, between 40-45 people
Mode of transportation: Primarily large comfortable coaches
Accommodation style: Unique 3 & 4 star hotels and guest houses
Typical age range: 50+
Single travelers welcome (single supplements are required, but often discounted)
Average tour price: $3,796
Top Regions: Europe, USA, Canada
Related TTC Brands: Insight Vacations, Uniworld, Brendan Vacations
Commonly compared with: Insight Vacations & Globus
What Makes Trafalgar Tours Stand Out?
Budget friendly without cutting activities
Comfortable, not physically demanding tours
Largely focused on cultural immersion
Destination specific accommodation styles
Strong reputation
Dedicated to responsible tourism - Founding member of TreadRight Foundation
Good balance of free time and inclusions
Trafalgar is a budget friendly group tour operator with premium tastes. Their motto is “See the world from the inside,” - this is the place to come for culturally rich and immersive travel experiences that don’t break the bank or the back.
Tours with Trafalgar are comfortable, not too physically demanding, and offer the opportunity to meet, talk, eat and drink with locals. You’ll get to know chefs, artisans, craftsmen, historians, and farmers as you explore what makes each destination truly special.
Trafalgar has a strong reputation, having been around since 1947 - putting them right at the pinnacle of when many premier guided tour companies were established. You’ll meet groups of like minded travelers, enjoy cultural experiences, expertly crafted itineraries with local touches and experiences guides, while traveling in comfort and ease.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Trafalgar?
Older travelers (but all ages are welcome)
Families
Mid to high range budget travelers
Those who enjoy slow-paced itineraries and easy physical activity
Those who favor historic sightseeing & cultural immersion over hard core adventure
If you are an active traveler, perhaps recently retired, eager to explore the world in comfort, visiting a nice combination of unique local spots and classic sites, then Trafalgar could be a great choice.
Possibly you are new to group tours and packages, having been used to creating your own travel experiences at a younger age - Trafalgar provides the perfect introduction to group tours.
You'll have plenty of free time to explore on your own, for shopping, sightseeing, and meals away from the group. Optional excursions are available throughout the itinerary for when you want a bit more structure.
Families will also get a lot out of the Trafalgar travel experience. If you're seeking a family vacation and interested in introducing a new generation of travelers to your favorite country - but don’t really have the time or patience to worry about planning out all the logistics - Trafalgar could be a great choice.
While they offer many trip styles, suitable for travelers of all ages, their classic touch is popular among older travelers. Classic doesn’t mean old fashioned or tired - simply a bit less on the active adventure and more on the historic sights and cultural experiences. They have a number of family focused tours, as well as tailored trips for special interests.
Trafalgar trips are budget friendly, with most trips in middle to low range, including a “Cost Saver” feature that allows you to see more inexpensive trips broken down by ratings and cost clearly. They offer several deals on trips throughout the year.
Trafalgar is a British brand, so many of the attendees on your tour will be from the UK.
Top Destinations
Europe & the UK
USA and Canada
Australia & New Zealand
Asia
South America
With Trafalgar, you can find trips to Europe, USA & Canada, South America, Asia, Australia & New Zealand. While the destinations are widespread, Trafalgar trips explore the culture and their highly trained local guides take you to hidden local spots without venturing too far outside the comfort zone.
Tours in Europe and the UK are among the most popular itineraries, utlizing guest houses and even castles for accommodation!
Their USA & Canada tours are extremely popular for outdoorsy travelers. National Parks are a common itinerary item, as are trips along the Rocky Mountaineer railroad.
In South America, Trafalgar travels to Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Peru. In Africa, they go to Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa. In Asia, it’s Cambodia, China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
And in the Pacific, Trafalgar visits Australia and New Zealand - some trips in this region are more basic when it comes to accommodation so be sure to read the itinerary carefully!
Wherever you go, you can expect high quality guides, unique destination-specific accommodations, and smooth travels.
They also have a number of religious themed tours, including trips that include excursions to Oberammergau, Bavaria. Once a decade this small town presents a Passion Play, and Trafalgar has had special access since 1970. The next time to experience this unique event is 2020.
Trafalgar Travel Style
The Trafalgar travel style is all about getting to know the culture through activities and connecting with locals. Their main tagline is “Discover the Good Life”. On Trafalgar tours, you get to experience the real thing in a safe, escorted environment with knowledgeable guides there to help with the language and provide historical and cultural context.
"Discovering the Good Life" encompasses perks like skipping lines and private access to classic sites; and unique experiences that bring you to places and among people you’d never have the chance to meet traveling on your own.
This kind of travel is local immersion, but not in the same way a 25 year old might interpret that idea.
Rather than bunking at hostels, going out late at night, and enjoying potentially questionable street food, you’ll stay in premium, centrally located and culturally significant accommodations - everything from bed and breakfasts in Ireland to hotels right on the banks of Norwegian fjords.
Learn cooking techniques in Italy, enjoy private winery tours at French chateaus, and touring a small olive farm in Spain are just a few examples of the kind of unique travel experiences you can expect with Trafalgar.
Groups are large, typically between 40-45 travelers, a max of 52 on trips in the USA and Canada. Primary transportation during the tour is in large coaches, equipped with WiFi (with the exception of Alaska) and featuring large viewing windows - ideal for taking in the scenery as you head to your next spot on the itinerary.
Most meals during Trafalgar tours are included. Trips often include free time during which you can explore on your own, with suggestions from your expert guides.
Why Choose a Tour with Trafalgar?
Well known company
Culturally rich experiences in comfort
Many activities included, plus some optional choices
All guides are expertly trained
Large groups of international travelers
Trafalgar has a solid reputation, and they stick to what they’ve done well for over 50 years. They focus on the classics, providing a culturally rich perspective as you meet locals along the way. Their experience has allowed them to cultivate relationships around the world with local businesses - quality control you can trust for every stop along the trip.
Niche tours based on specialized interests are also something they are proud to offer. Trafalgar is where you go to have the essentials and logistics take care of seamlessly while you sit back and enjoy. Do note that these tours can be quite large - 40 people traveling together in a tour group can be stifling for some.
While they appeal to an older crowd due to their history and recognizable name, Trafalgar has an impressively well integrated social media presence. Trips on their site are accompanied by instagram posts from real travelers who have been on the same tour, using the hashtag #SimplyTrafalgar.
Old or young(ish), couple or single, traveling Simply Trafalgar inspires confidence, comfort, and enjoyment.
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Premier
Audley Travel
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Total Trips 494 Trips
Average Price
$ 297 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Custom/Private Tour Operator
Helped us finding a great vacation spot during the pandemic
We were looking for a quiet beach vacation during the pandemic. Audley travel specialist worked closely with us to understand our needs, proposed multiple and diverse options, went above & beyond to find out more details. This made it simple & worry-free, the specialist was really listening to what we were looking for. The specialist also prepared a detailed itinerary, including close by attractions tailored to our expressed interests. We had such a great experience, we asked the specialist to book our next trip as soon as we came back from the first. Thank you!!
Fantastic service
Truly bespoke and repeatedly very high quality service from the team at Audley. Super impressed.
Our dream holiday to Borneo
We had our dream holiday to Borneo cancelled because of the Corona Virus. Layla had worked so very hard with us to ensure everything was going to be perfect, so we were truly gutted. About a month before I had also been given the hard news that I needed a major back operation in the not too distant future. We had hoped we would be able to go on holiday and then have that. How wrong were we! However Audley Travel were wonderful. By now we were talking to Hannah, who completely understood that we couldn't just rebook, or take their extremely generous offer of a voucher. We have no time frame for my op to work around. Hospitals have cancelled so much. We were hearing horror stories from friends who were trying to get refunds and had lost thousands, but none of them had booked with Audley. Audley refunded our money with no queries. So much so that we placed that money in Premium Bonds, with a view that it is not to be touched until I have had my op, and we will once again be phoning Hannah and Layla, and booking with them. Hopefully Borneo but maybe somewhere else. However it will definitely be with Audley and will be a dream holiday. In the meantime I am enjoying looking at all the wonderful places to go with their emails and updates. Thank you Audley for being so understanding and kind at a time when I really needed that.
Audley helps travelers see the world their own way, providing individual journeys crafted just for you by experts who have been there before.
What Makes Audley Travel Stand Out?
Trips fully customized to your dates, needs and interests
Hotels with character and thoughtful excursions hand-selected to impress
Dedicated country specialists who know their destination inside and out
With Audley, you get the peace of mind that comes from speaking directly to a country specialist who’s been to your destination many times before and who will use their insider knowledge to design an itinerary specifically for you.
Your dedicated specialist will listen to what you want, propose ideas to match, and work with you from inception to departure and remain available to answer any questions throughout your trip.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Audley?
The Audley traveler is discerning and curious and used to attentive and personal customer service. They’re interested in working with the finest trip planners to ensure all aspects of their trip are taken care of. Audley prices reflect the experience and care that goes into crafting our journeys and we’re happy to say that our customers think we’re worth it.
Where Do They Operate?
Audley Travel has country specialists for more than 80 destinations across every continent. They can plan anything from first time visits to special interest trips in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, Oceania, the Middle East and Polar regions. Within each destination, they also have travel advisors that specialize in safari and wildlife, culture, adventure travel, family trips, cruise and more.
Audley Travel Style
With Audley, virtually any travel style or theme is available to you. We’ve broken it out into 12 distinct Vacation Types:
Beach Vacations: Great for combining experiential travel with plenty of rest and relaxation along the way. Audley beach vacations can be planned anywhere from the Seychelles to Thailand and usually feature a resort stay along with some exciting cultural adventures.
Cruises: A great way to cover a lot of ground while only unpacking once, Audley river and sea cruises go all around the world, with a focus on destinations that are just a bit off the beaten path.
Cultural Vacations: For those travelers who want insider insights and to get to know adestination through the locals.
Family Vacations: No matter how old your family members are, Audley specialists can helpcreate the perfect itinerary for you out to see the world. We’ll suggest the best activities, accommodations, and destinations based on your family’s individual needs, from toddlers to teens.
Great Journeys: Trips on an epic scale, often visiting sweeping landscapes and far-flungdestinations like Antarctica or New Zealand. Honeymoon and Romance Ideas: If you’re looking for a relaxing and romantic honeymoon, with plenty of unique and special touches, Audley can help with private tours all over the world.
Luxury Vacations: Most of Audley’s trips have luxury components, but these trips takeindulgence to the next level. Everything from the hotels to the transportation will be five-star. We can provide opulence around the world, from Morocco to India to Australia.
Off the Beaten Track: For those travelers who want something both unique and adventurous, Audley's off-the-beaten-track trips focus on places that aren’t easily accessible like Malaysian Borneo or Brazil’s intric maze of Amazonian wetlands.
Rail Vacations: A classic way to travel, rail journeys are great for travelers who want to take it slow. It’s a rare chance to take in the landscape in a way that cars or planes just can’t provide.
Road Trips: Sometimes a good old-fashioned road trip is the only way to go. These self-drive vacations are for travelers who are used to going without a guide but want an expert’s opinion on the itinerary.
Wildlife Vacations: Get up close and personal with unique and hard-to-find wildlife around the world. From pandas in China to orangutans in Borneo, Audley can help you discover species around the world.
Why Travel With Them?
Audley can provide the inspiration and expertise you need to elevate your next trip into an epic journey. Their customized trips are created by experienced travel experts who have been there and know the best way to discover a destination. If you’re looking for personal attention, dedicated experts and local insights, Audley is a great choice.
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Premier
Tauck
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Total Trips 1,324 Trips
Average Price
$ 578 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 14 days
Trip Prices $ 3,690 – $ 11,790
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Italy
151 Tours in Italy
Great if you like 5-star hotels and lots of food
The tour covered most of Switzerland, with one day in Italy, which could have been eliminated. If you want to see the country from a bus or train, and you desire luxury hotels and gourmet food, then this is the tour for you. If you want to have a closer connection to the local people, and walk a bit in the mountains, or even hear the cowbells up close, then don't take this trip. While the trip was nice, I felt a disconnect from the local people and the country itself. We were always separated in a private train car, or on a private tour. I came home not really knowing what it's like to live there, other than it's very expensive.
Still Spellbound by the Grandeur of Alaska
Focused on the amazing wildness of Alaska without worrying about the mundane details. Expert, low-key tour director made everything look easy. Excursions enhanced appreciation for the history, terrain, wildlife, peoples, boom and bust cycles that make Alaska so unique. Clear view of Denali, great weather, days 'at sea' with binoculars in hand!
Most Memorable Moment:
Flightseeing, Tundra Wilderness tour (clear Denali, rare wolf sighting and grizzlies in distance), crossing Prince William Sound (sea-otters, orcas, stellar sea-lions, and more), Hubbard Glacier calving, Glacier Bay entire day, Whale Watching out of Juneau, and bald eagles everywhere!
Pay for a 4 star trip and get 2 star food
My husband and I took the Treasures of the Mediterranean tour two weeks ago. The food off the ship was very good. The food on the ship was subpar (2 stars out of 4 stars). We ended up ordering French Fries at the beginning of each meal so we would at least have something to eat. I called Tauck and voiced my concerns. They offered us a $250 voucher each for another trip. I hardly think the food portion on the yacht was $250. Why would I go on another Tauck trip when my first one, which was our retirement celebration due to the poor food. The majority of the people on the trip were dissatisfied with the food and their reviews reflected it.
Sicily, the Amalfi Coast & Rome - Northbound 2020
Trip Type: Small Ship Cruise
Venice & the Dalmatian Coast 2021
Trip Type: Small Ship Cruise
Venice & the Dalmatian Coast 2020
Trip Type: Small Ship Cruise
Founded in 1925 by Arthur Tauck, the company has blossomed from a New England motor coach tour agency to offering trips throughout the world -- by land (including rail), sea, and sometimes by air (private air charters, helicopters). But it remains a Tauck family-run business, now in its fourth generation.
Quick Facts
Founded in 1925
Luxury travel with a friendly touch
Small groups, large groups, river cruises
Solo friendly
Average tour price is around $6,000 p/p
Unique partnerships: BBC Earth, offering science themed nature tours, Ken Burns journeys in the US
What Makes Tauck Stand Out
“No grouches or pessimists” was the plea in a 1920s newspaper ad for a small tour group. From that small automobile taking curious, adventurous New Yorkers along dusty roads through beautiful New England, Tauck has come a long way, now offering guided tours throughout the world.
They look upon their legacy with immense pride, as well they should. Arthur Tauck was an immigrant who pulled himself up by bootstraps and engenuity, and his name represents a supreme, classic and classy tour experience.
Tauck is a long-established high-quality tour operator with a strong reputation as one of the top companies offering upper-mid-range to luxury group travel and river cruises for the 50+ crowd. While its staple has been European and North American land tours, Tauck has been increasingly expanding into special family trips, exotic locations, and recent award-winning European river cruising.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Tauck?
Pricing is virtually all-inclusive -- no additional options that can run up costs are offered during the trips, yet this is not a place for the true budget traveler. Though they offer several different types of tours, from family vacations to river cruising, attracting and serving a diverse customer group, the legacy of tradition and comfortability appeals largely to older and middle aged travelers.
Solo travelers are very welcome on Tauck trips, and pay a low single supplement. Numerous specifically solo friendly tours are offered. You’ll meet romantic singles, or simply independent minded travelers, of all ages.
Large family or friend groups could find a great fit at Tauck. Particularly because if your group is 11 people, the 11th travels for free! Because of Tauck’s impressively wide reaching themes and styles for families, having several different ages will be easier to entertain than they might be with other companies.
They even have dedicated “family river cruises”. So if you’re considering a multi-gen family reunion or have a large group of friends with various ages, Tauck could be a good choice.
Top Destinations
Tauck destinations include all seven continents -- so whether you're trying to plan an Iceland vacation or looking to take a trip to Canada, consider Tauck!
Special themes may include food and wine, North American national parks, fall foliage, solo travel, African safaris, “Culturious” travel (for culturally curious baby boomers), “Bridges” (for families), and “Events,” which are considered once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences.
These may feature a trip to the Kentucky Derby or journeys based around themes of Ken Burns films, with a chance to meet Burns himself.
Tauck Travel Style
Tauck’s travel style is all about seeing destinations in comfort, yet with a strong sense of adventure and desire to see different sides of the destination - from local life to culturally immersive activities.
Land tours are where they began, and they offer hundreds of different tours of various lengths around the world. Typically accommodations are in comfortable 3, 4, and occasionally 5 star hotels.
Tauck has an award winning river cruise line, covering a variety of European rivers. They strive to create an intimate setting, where customer service is not compromised. Small ship cruises use 40- to 264-passenger-size yachts and expeditionary vessels that can visit small islands and other locations that big ships cannot. The staff is known for its attentiveness and individualized service.
Among Tauck’s unique partnerships is a special connection with the BBC Earth, through which they offer what they call “Earth Journeys”. These explore the natural world with emphasis on being outdoors learning the fascinating earth science behind stunning nature and wildlife.
Tauck is a luxury minded brand, and their prices do tend to sit in the upper budget range. Think an average price between $5,000 and $7,000 per person. That said, they strive to reflect a friendliness and openness, and steer away from any kind of “stuffy” feeling. Their trips are comprehensive and full of enriching cultural activities, while also appreciating the value behind enjoying a cocktail hour before heading into dinner.
Why Choose a Tour or River Cruise With Tauck?
Tauck has an impressive array of travel styles and tours, suitable to numerous types of travelers. They are especially popular with large family groups and corporate groups, as well as very friendly to solo / single travelers.
A renowned, award winning, and well established company, they seamlessly marry innovation with legacy - sticking to their roots while continuing to create unique offerings. Some of its biggest growth has come on water, where Tauck operates a fleet of seven European river boats and a number of small ship cruises. Their customer service, attentive and knowledgeable guides are definitely a key component to their popularity.
Tauck offers something for just about everyone.
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Preferred
Contiki
View Profile
Total Trips 2,372 Trips
Average Price
$ 192 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 33 days
Trip Prices $ 1,465 – $ 8,838
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Italy
413 Tours in Italy
Cape Safari & Falls...amazing!!!
Worth every penny!! This trip was a once in a lifetime kind of trip and I think was great value for money!!
A heartless tour company!!
Let me start by saying that I did not even get the chance to go on this trip. A week prior to my trip to Spain, an immediate family member of mine become ill with imminent death. I was unable under the circumstances to travel and wanted to cancel my trip and was willing to reschedule for a later date or get a credit. This was a very expensive trip for both my sister and I, taking us years to save up for it. The response we received from our agent is that Contiki is not willing to postpone the travel, even after we were willing to pay an extra fee. This tells me that this company is GREEDY and HEARTLESS. My family member has since passed away, 3 days before my departure date which was supposed to be on July 2nd. I even went to check the Contiki website and was shocked to see that my trip which was previously full, has now opened up spots to fill our place. Now, not only are they keeping the money of 2 young hardworking people, but also making money off filling our spots!! I've never experienced such injustice and mistreatment from a company in my entire life! This company has no sympathy and ZERO understanding for a situation as devastating as death. My sister and I were so excited to go on this trip and were very upset by the timing of our situation... but how can you control when a loved one will pass??????? SHAME ON YOU CONTIKI. If nothing is done to resolve this unfair policy, I will make sure not to recommend your tours to anyone.
The trip itself was incredible
The trip itself was incredible, we had so many activities, most of them you had to pay for but it was defiantly money well spent, it was worth it!! There was a lot of travelling involved but it was all an amazing adventure, and we got to get to know everyone much better.
Since 1962, Contiki has been a leader in providing exceptional global experiences for 18-35 year olds.
What Makes Contiki Stand Out?
Contiki offers a huge amount of tour options tailor made for younger travelers. They pride themselves on creating lifelong memories among international groups of like-minded travelers. They offer a comprehensive selection of trips, over 300 of them, all over the world.
Their product range spans three different styles based on the pace of the trip: Discovery Plus, In-Depth Explorer, and Easy Pace. Make sure to read the details of each trip and choose the right one for your travel style.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Contiki?
Is Contiki only for 18-35?
Yes, Contiki is specifically for travelers between the ages of 18-35.
Sociable, spontaneous, and easy-going travelers who are between the ages of 18-35 will definitely love the Contiki travel experience. These are trips for those young people who travel for the sheer joy of meeting locals, experiencing the nightlife, relaxing in the sun, and pounding the pavement for the next unique local gem.
Having a good time, being active, and spending less time in museums is something to expect on a Contiki tour. If you’re the kind of young person who likes meeting a lot of new people, are excited to try new things Contiki could be a good choice.
Contiki trips are very much about being young and having fun - so you might miss a particular cultural attraction in favor of a group decision to instead explore a local market or neighborhood not in the guidebooks. Contiki tends to attract partiers more than bookworms.
The guides and groups are generally warm and welcoming.
Top Destinations
Contiki offers 300+ trips in over 50 countries. They are especially popular for young travelers looking to explore Europe and Asia. Other top regions include Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Contiki Travel Style
Contiki trips keep budget very much in mind when designing their trips. Expect a mix of 2 to 3-star hotels, guesthouses, and hostels on most trips. Contiki uses a mix of private coaches and public transportation to get around.
The Contiki travel style is designed to allow for spontaneity - appreciate and get to know the culture through immersive activities, outdoors adventures, and local gems, off the tourist path.
Contiki trips can be found in 6 broad themes:
1. Discoverer - For the widest mix of sites and activities. These trips are multi-country and city, jam packed with attractions and hidden gems.
2. High Energy - For those travelers who are all for maximizing their fun day and night.
3. In Depth Explorer - If cultural travel is what you gravitate to, these trips are going to suit you the best.
4. Independent Insider - For if you value a lot of free time to explore, setting your own schedule and curating the experience for your interests.
5. Camping - Truly budget travel, sleeping under the stars, camping trips with Contiki are currently available in Europe.
6. Winter & Ski - Hitting the slopes and Christmas markets in Europe, enjoying some off-season perks like fewer crowds and lower prices.
7. Sailing, Cruise, Beach - If being out on the water is your bread and butter, and suntanning on the beach calls your name every time you travel, these trips are for you.
8. Festivals & Short Stays - Festival travel has grown in popularity, especially among younger crowds. Contiki will help organize these often confusing and crowded events.
Why Choose a Tour With Contiki?
Contiki is a great choice for younger travelers looking to socialize with others during their trip. All of their travelers are between the ages of 18-35, and having a good time is one of their primary reasons for traveling with Contiki.
Groups are a mix of people from the US, Canada, Australia, and the U.K.
They have lots of experience leading cultural tours in different parts of the world and have a wide range of options to choose from.
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Globus
View Profile
Total Trips 938 Trips
Average Price
$ 273 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 32 days
Trip Prices $ 799 – $ 5,369
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Italy
70 Tours in Italy
GLOBUS REFUND
We were scheduled to take our 4th. tour with Globus on September 15, 2020. Globus canceled our trip (because of covid-19) on July 1, 2020. We notified Globus that we would like a refund on July 8, 2020. Globus indicated that it could take up to 12 weeks to get a refund! Our credit card was refunded in the full amount August 17, 2020. This was 6.5 weeks from when we initiated the process! We would have given Globus a 5 stars if the refund would have been faster!
Fantastic Israel tour - highly recommended!
We took the Israel Escape tour in late Feb 2020. We choose the tour for the itinerary and cost, and it was simply wonderful! The itinerary ticked almost every box on our wish list, and our tour guide was simply phenomenal. Very comfortable bus and good hotels and meals. We had not been on an organized tour before - we usually plan our own independent travel - but we could never have done as much or with such expert commentary and guidance as this tour. We're hooked - we are planning our next Globus adventure!
Never book with Globus again ever
Put down deposit of $799 on 7/16/2019 for a trip that would have started today,8/16/2020. Trip was cancelled 5/12/2020 due to Covid. Even with insurance which my travel agent told us wouldn't have mattered because Globus cancelled the tour, getting my deposit back was like pulling teeth. After patiently waiting 12 weeks and 2 calls to Globus with no answers on when the refund would be issued ,I escalated it to my Visa card company. I finally have gotten my deposit back. If I ran my business like that I'd be arrested and get dragged into court.....Covid or not there is absolutely no excuse for taking 14 weeks to return my money...I will never book with Globus again ever and advise anyone who will listen don't do it. They had to have their deposit over a year ahead of time but dragged out refunding as long as they could. SCREW THEM ! As someone else said,1 star is to high a rating.
Grand Catholic Italy – Faith-Based Travel
Trip Type: Group Tour
Oregon's Coast, Cascades & Craft Beers
Trip Type: Group Tour
Italian Highlights with Lake Como
Trip Type: Group Tour
Globus’ roots date back to Switzerland in 1928, when the company’s founder, Antonio Mantegazza, bought a rowboat to carry passengers across Lake Lugano, entertaining them with stories about the local sights along the way.
From that modest beginning, one of the world’s leading travel companies was born. Globus is part of the Globus Group of brands, which also includes Avalon Waterways, Cosmos, and Monograms - together they carry more than a half million passengers annually.
What Makes Globus Stand Out?
All inclusive packages
Balanced itineraries between planned activities and free time
Centrally located accommodation
VIP access (skip the lines and get behind-the-scenes experiences!)
Founded in 1928, one of the oldest in the business, they are well respected as a mass market all-inclusive tour company that provides great value. Want free wifi on your tour bus so you can google the interesting sites you pass by? Like convenient hotels centrally located and/or with special local charm? Globus' long experience has helped them learn what makes travelers happy, and they deliver at accessible prices.
Offering inclusive, budget friendly coach tours, most notably in Europe, Globus is a classic escorted tour operator ideal for those travelers seeking a comfortable and fun travel experience.
Globus tours include mostly everything in their base rates, they choose hotels that are in the heart of a city (where the action is), allow a good amount of free time to explore a destination on your own, and use knowledgeable local guides -- in short, they offer the complete package.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Globus?
Ages 50+
Low and high budget travelers
Those who enjoy slower paced itineraries
Globus tours are heavily aimed at active older travelers, particularly recent retirees and baby boomers in the 50+ range, as well as seniors. You have a desire to relax and feel at home, able to linger and appreciate classic sights as well as perhaps enjoy a cappuccino at a local cafe suggested by your tour leader. You don’t want to be rushed or hurried from place to place, yet are attracted to the benefits of guided travel - logistics taken care of and a guide to help keep the itinerary moving.
As a long-established, award-winning tour company Globus caters to both budget group travelers and those seeking a more personalized (and costly) travel package. And since you can choose among group, individual, family, or religious travel experiences lasting anywhere from four to 29 days, Globus tours appeal to a broad range of travelers. But their sweet spot remains middle-of-the-road ‘value’ travelers.
Top Destinations
Today, still family owned, Globus operates in 60 plus countries across the globe, offering nearly 160 different escorted tours to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, the South Pacific, and North and South America. They are especially known for Europe and Canada
Whether you're looking for vacation packages to Switzerland or the best Thailand tours, consider Globus. On European motor coach tours, Globus limits group size to 44, allowing for extra legroom on the bus.
Globus Travel Style
The Globus travel style is relaxed yet comprehensive. Group tours are designed to allow for personal time to explore, but with many pre-planned activities, excursions, and meals to enjoy throughout your vacation. Groups are medium size - and can accommodate large groups of friends or families. You’ll have the opportunity to meet new friends and like minded travelers.
In Europe private tours are also available with Globus. for those looking to make this independent exploration possible to an even greater extent.
An attentive Tour Director is never far away on a Globus trip. Globus tour directors are locals, who have input over the itinerary, lend their unique perspective, and take you to the best spots for meals, drinks, shopping, etc. They are also knowledgeable guides, introducing the culture and country’s history through visits to major sites and attractions. Globus travel style is about combining the best of “travel like a local” with the best of “classic tour sites”.
Globus is not a luxury brand, but accommodations and transportation will be comfortable. Transportation is in large motorcoaches, equipped with wifi and large viewing windows. Sit back and enjoy the ride.
Why Choose a Tour with Globus?
Older active travelers not interested in slowing down just yet will appreciate the Globas approach. Globus makes amazing travel experiences reachable - for multiple budgets and styles.
Super adventurous and independent minded travelers may be curious to explore other options before deciding on Globus. These kinds of fully escorted tours aren’t for everyone. You will have some free time, but most meals, excursions, and activities are inclusions in the price - leaving you somewhat out of luck if you don’t want to participate in a certain itinerary item.
If you’re curious about group travel, other group tours provide more flexibility that could provide a more positive introduction to this style of travel.
Globus offers many great perks for larger groups planning to travel. If you’re a group of eight people traveling together, you are eligible for special deals and discounts; and if you’re a group of 20 people, Globus will arrange a tailor-made itinerary for you. If you are a traveler looking for value tours and prefer a specific travel theme, then globus has trips and tours that are designed accordingly.
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Monograms
View Profile
Total Trips 1,771 Trips
Average Price
$ 231 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 3 – 16 days
Trip Prices $ 608 – $ 3,795
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Italy
378 Tours in Italy
Obsessed
Obsessed. Very good experience throughout.
Monograms Vacations
Monograms Vacations, a Globus Company, is refusing to offer refunds on trips they canceled due to the COVID 19 virus. When I called to request a refund, they said that the date for refunds had passed. When they had notified me of the cancelation by email, they did not mention that there was only a two week window to request a refund. Instead, the email stated in bold type "Please note that you do not need to take immediate action". I called two days after their non-disclosed deadline and was refused a refund.
Refund in full!
We have used Monograms several times in the past traveling to India, Equador, Amazon twice, Galapagos islands. All of these trips were amazing however recently I had to give a 5 star rating for giving us a full refund for a trip we booked to Africa due to Covid pandemic.We will definitely use them again when we can safely travel.
Venice Getaway 2 Nights
Trip Type: Self-guided / Independent Tour
Lake Maggiore Getaway 3 Nights
Trip Type: Self-guided / Independent Tour
Sorrento Getaway 3 Nights
Trip Type: Self-guided / Independent Tour
Monograms, one of the Globus family of brands, offers classic vacation packages to many of the world’s most popular destinations. The company has many years of experience creating packaged tours and is based in Colorado, USA.
What Makes Monograms Stand Out?
It can be difficult to find a company that successfully marries two seemingly disparate ways of travel: independant or self guided and classic group travel. But at Monograms this is exactly the task they have set for themselves, and their positive reviews and large variety of products would seem to say they do a solid job.
With Monograms there is no need to choose between self guided or group travel. You can personalize your experience as well - an important element for many of today’s travelers. Themes include Family travel, Food & Wine, Cruises, and Active.
Monograms prides themselves on the all-inclusive nature of travel planning, pre-organizing everything from your airport transfer to your activities and meals. They also provide a Local Hosts program, which is basically like an in-destination concierge.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Monograms?
Monograms is ideal for travelers who don’t love group travel but also highly dislike the stress of arriving in a destination and having to plan everything themselves. It’s for the traveler who wants the freedom of a private couple or family getaway and the comfort of a local guide who can assist with everything from restaurant recommendations to skipping the line at major attractions.
Monograms is Globus’ mid-tier brand in terms of pricing and thus travelers span across many different age groups. Many couples choose Monograms for a romantic trip to places like Italy and France, although they also offer specialized packages for families.
Most Monograms packages are a mix of group sightseeing tours and independent exploration. This can result in some very large touring groups when visiting popular tourist attractions like the Louvre in Paris, for example. However, most of their trips still afford some level of flexibility to explore a destination on your own terms.
Top Destinations
You can travel with Monograms to many different locations in Europe, Australia, Asia, South/Central America, and Africa. Perhaps their most well-known destination is Italy, and they also offer some unique trips to Australia, specifically to areas other similar tour companies don’t operate.
Monograms Travel Style
At Monograms, their travel style is about providing you with a no hassle private vacation, catered to your interests. Everything from honeymoon vacations to family vacations are available through Monograms.
When you use Monograms, you can elect to have the help of a travel agent, or book a pre-planned package.
Why Choose a Monograms Tour?
For a well rounded trip, designed for you, and with an attentive local host there to make your journey as seamless and stress free as possible, Monograms is the perfect company.
These tips are mostly private, so ideal for families, couples, and honeymooners - though during some days on the itinerary you will join up with a larger group for guided day tours
Monograms is all about providing personal touches, and arranging a trip for you that matches your travel style. Providing some personal input and likes / dislikes / must sees is going to take your Monograms tour from “ordinary” to extraordinary, so these trips are best suited to travelers who like to be involved with planning the itinerary.
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Insight Vacations
View Profile
Total Trips 1,554 Trips
Average Price
$ 313 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 8 – 27 days
Trip Prices $ 2,275 – $ 8,775
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Italy
292 Tours in Italy
Our trip was cancelled due to COVID and after 90 days still no refund
We spent $21,000 for my son's graduation trip for the family. Of course the company cancelled the trip and after 90 days they still have not refunded a dime. We got travel insurance but that has not helped us. It is devastating and we can get in touch with our travel agent but Insight will not deal with us directly. They told our travel agent today that now it could take up to 120 days to see a refund. I am afraid our money is gone
Well thought out journey. Am very pleased I went.
Excellent guide, who went out of his way to show us places not on the official tour. Tour was educational and well worth while. However, some of the buffet meals were below your standard.
Milan, Venice, Firenze and Rome were beyond anticipation,...Absolutely Wonderful!!!! You can leave off Pisa.
Francis Touscheck was fantastic. Very informative and knowledgeable on the history. Christine was also fantastic in Rome, Vatican.
Located in London, and part of the sweeping family-owned Travel Corporation, Insight Vacations provides signature itineraries according to 7 specific trip styles.
What Makes Insight Vacations Stand Out?
Insight does not skimp -- hotels tend to be centrally located, if more expensive, so that guests can experience a destination at night and have more free time at their disposal.
“Signature” experiences dot every itinerary: these may be interesting historic hotels, special activities (such as a private opera or orchestra performance),or authentic local restaurants. Most everything is included in the base rates.
You can choose from numerous different trip styles with Insight Vacations:
Discovery Journeys: Recommended for first time visits, these are classic tours designed to introduce travelers to the country or region. Most top tourist sites will be included in these itineraries. These are often multi-country and city trips.
Regional Journeys: Forget the country hopping fast paced tour style - these trips are for exploring one region at a slower pace. Great for travelers who want to experience all sides of one destination and are not concerned with country counting.
Country Roads: If you're feeling "been there done that" about most destinations but don't quite know how to explore beyond the tourist track without missing anything, this is the style for you. Discover the local side of the destination with insights from the experts. Recommended for well traveled people visiting for a second or third time.
Easy Pace: For the independent traveler unsure if a guided tour is the best fit, Insight offers "Easy Pace" tours. These provide ample free time to explore on your own and plenty of flexibility to the itinerary. You'll spend 3+ days in each stop which is a great way to slow down and enjoy the journey.
Special Interest: Have a particular hobby or interest you'd like to dive deeper into? Insight's Special Interest tours could be a great fit. Think a tour of Europe centered around flower shows or a trip to discover Europe's artistic legacy.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Insight Vacations?
Affluent travelers
50+
Social travelers
Foodies
Insight’s typical customers are upscale English-speaking baby boomers in their 50s and 60s.
The kind of traveler who appreciates the finer things, loves the idea of a day out in the fresh air followed by a private dining experience with high caliber food and wine, will love the exceptional service that comes with an Insight Vacations tour.
If you enjoy meeting new people in a small group setting, the group travel experience with Insight is all about creating the intimacy and opportunity to meet new friends and make lasting connections. And they provide a few different ways to make this possible, from groups of around 32 people, to special interest trips.
However if you prefer the idea of traveling in a private setting, Insight will customize the travel experience to what you and your friend group or family group want to see.
Foodies will definitely enjoy traveling with Insight Vacations as well! They make food and dining a focal point of interest on their itineraries, in a way that really stands out.
Top Destinations
Insight Vacations offers premium motor coach tours throughout Europe, the UK, and North America. In recent years, they've added more Asian and North African destinations.
Insight Vacations Travel Style
Insight seeks to fill a “premium” niche that falls above first class and a notch below luxury. Customer comfort on the road is a priority. If visions of cramped bus tours come to mind, note that Insight coaches have been stripped down to 40 seats, compared to 49 to 53 for normal tour buses. This allows for double the leg room, and a truly upscale coach travel experience.
Meanwhile, tour directors and local guides keep passengers entertained by delivering “insights” (in English) into local culture, history and politics.
They also take your dining experience into account. Insight offers several different ways to make food a highlight during your trip. These include fine dining options at innovative local restaurants, unique farm to table meals, cooking demonstrations, and even learning to make local dishes yourself.
Similar attention is paid to selecting the hotels and accommodations you will enjoy throughout your Insight Vacations tour. Lodgings are chosen for their central locations as well as significance to and representation of the destination.
Why Choose a Tour with Insight Vacations?
Comfortable and upscale
Local insights
Group size 35-40
Numerous travel themes
The Insight Vacations tagline is “the art of traveling in style”. They take this idea seriously both pre trip and while you’re on the ground.
If you’re looking for luxury beyond the silk sheet stereotype, consider Insight Vacations. Everything is planned out to the letter, groups are small, and you experience personalized service and passionate travel guides every step of the way.
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Premier
Collette
View Profile
Total Trips 918 Trips
Average Price
$ 289 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 13 days
Trip Prices $ 1,469 – $ 3,899
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Italy
69 Tours in Italy
we had an absolute wonderful time
My wife & I just returned from your National Parks tour and we had an absolute wonderful time. Great itinerary, tour director (Merrin) and driver (John). First class!
The Best
The best. I've worked with many travel companies, but now I only book my groups through Collette.
Had a river cruise booked for May 2020
Had a river cruise booked for May 2020 on the Danube but unfortunately because of Covid 19 it was cancelled. I had no issues in getting a full refund for my vacation. I will definitely rebook with Collette when things return to normal...
Treasures of Europe from London to Rome
Trip Type: Group Tour
With a history that goes back to 1918, their experience speaks for itself. They provide comprehensive, well-managed guided tours for travelers seeking an exploratory, comfortable travel experience.
Collette - Quick Facts
Founded in 1918
Group size: It varies. Collette offers private and customizable tours, as well as small groups of between 14-24 guests
Typical age range: 45+
Average tour price: $2,996
Accommodation style: 4 star and above hotels and unique locations
Top regions: USA & Canada, Europe & UK
Commonly compared with Tauck and Trafalgar
What Makes Collette Tours Stand Out?
Flexibility & personalization
Expert tour managers
Easy booking process
Private & Customizable tours
Balances iconic must-sees with immersive cultural experiences
A long history in guided tourism means Collette knows every inch of guided travel. Take care of all the details like it’s second nature, and even though it's old hat every traveler is new and they dig into that. Collette recognizes that no two traveler is the same and approach each planning experience from a perspective of flexibility and personalization.
Their goal is to ease the hardship of planning and organizing for the traveler so you can fully enjoy the experience without worry or stress. At Collette, they know guided travel and have been successfully leading tours around the world to a growing, devoted customer base for nearly 100 years.
Collette tours are about letting you, the traveler, experience unbelievable, classic, and unique moments around the world.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Collette?
Travelers aged 45+
Moderately active travelers
Upper budget range
Do you love the ease of mind that comes with having every detail taken care of when you travel? Details that allow you to relax and enjoy the special little moments of discovering the world; learning about new cultures, awe inspiring wildlife encounters, and leisurely meals highlighting local cuisine? Then you are ideally suited to Collette tours.
The Collette traveler is typically older, in the 50+ range. Travelers who enjoy the finer things, value a premium to luxury style of accommodation and transportation, yet have an adventurous spirit will love traveling with Collette.
Recent retirees and active seniors who are game for anything are the kind of traveler who relish a tour with Collette - check out this group in Costa Rica - taking part in Costa Rica's famous ziplines!
If you don't want to be encouraged to jump in and push your comfort zone a bit, you may find yourself out of step on a majority of Collette tours. They have several offerings though, so don't let that discourage you.
Collette is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a comprehensive guided tour, with a lot of activity, and local experiences. These tours can involve extensive walking, sometimes over uneven surfaces, so a certain basic level of physical fitness is required.
Tours with Collette are classified by 5 basic physical levels, to help you find one best suited to you:
Level 1 - Mostly flat services and minimal walking. You should be comfortabe with climbing a few stairs, plus getting in and out of the coach
Level 2 - Average physical ability is required such as long stairs and walks of a few hours. Some walks may be over uneven ground.
Level 3 - Slightly longer distances and more frequent walks can be expected. Expect stairs and some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones or nature trails.
Level 4 - Expect to be on your feet longer, including periods of standing and more extensive walking periods. These tours may also feature nighttime activities, so you'll be active for a longer period of time.
Level 5 - Very active travel. Expect adventure experiences and activities, early mornings and late nights. You can also expect to experience the elements so be ready for rain, wind, dust, what have you.
Free days are included in most Collette tours, giving travelers time to relax, take walks on the beach, or maybe do some shopping.
If you’re the kind of traveler for whom the a glass of champagne out in the blazing sun of the Australian outback, gazing at Uluru, sounds idyllic - then Collette would be perfect for you.
Top Destinations
Collette tours travel all around the world, to all 7 continents including Antarctica. They are well known for Central and South America, Australia, and Africa. They also offer an impressive variety of North America tours including several in the United States and Canada.
Travel styles include everything from river cruises to family tours to faith based tours.
Collette Travel Style
Collette promises the “trip of a lifetime” through exclusive outings, luxury touches, and appreciating the moments of anticipation before the world reveals itself. Their travel style is about discovering new cultures, embracing the explorer within -- in time for a cocktail at the end of the day.
They have 6 broad classifications for travel style: Classic, Explorations, Spotlights, River Cruise, Faith, and Impact Travel:
1. Classic Collette Tours - This is what they call their Flagship collection, group tours that make the postcard come to life. Visit all the must see sites, enjoy cultural experiences, all with a professional and knowledgeable guide, there to help make your travel as seamless as possible. Groups are on the larger side
2. Explorations - These tours are about going deeper, meeting locals, and getting off the beaten path. “Authenticity” is a big word for Collette Explorations. You’ll experience the destination in a smaller group, an average of 18 people, allowing for access to more local experiences not available to larger groups. Classic sites will also be included in your itinerary, but the focus is mostly on unique experiences.
3. Spotlights - Have a shorter amount of time and don’t want to miss anything? Collette Spotlight tours are designed to maximize your city stay or short getaway experience. These are primarily walking tours, packed with sightseeing, historical and cultural information, but with some downtime as well. Typically these tours are between 5-9 days.
4. River Cruise - A very popular mode of travel, particularly for 50+ travelers, river cruising is ideal for those seeking a leisurely vacation, unpacking only once, enjoying gliding by beautiful sites and participating in various guided shore excursions. Collette river cruises go around the world, including China, Egypt, and Europe.
5. Faith - For those travelers interested in visiting religious sites, Collette has a group of tours dedicated to faith based travel. Visit world famous icons and learn their ancient histories.
Collette Faith tours visit everything from grand churches to the humble beginnings of the three major world religions in the Holy Land. Tours are history based with an emphasis on finding deeper spiritual significance and meaning. They also have trips to the Oberammergau Passion Play.
6. Impact Travel - Being a responsible traveler is an important component on all Collette tours, however if you’re seeking to do more to give back, their Impact Tours are a great way to do so. Sightsee with a purpose as you assist with local initiatives, volunteering among the community, helping in classrooms, and protecting local wildlife.
Why Choose a Tour with Collette?
Flexibility in planning
Extensions available pre or post tour date
Private airport transfer
Expert planners
If you are looking for an entertaining, fully escorted, active tour to explore new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences, Collette could be for you. They provide a dedicated guide, and handle all the details throughout the tour.
Free time is available on some days, but for the most part expect fairly full itineraries and a good amount of walking on their group tours. Some optional excursions are offered during the tour, so you can tailor your experience to a certain extent.
This is a great opportunity for meeting fellow travelers in a similar age range. Collette tours are open to everyone, but the majority of people on your tour will be older - in the 50+ range. Collette tours are ideal for travelers who want to have fun, enjoy the outdoors, and are open to new experiences.
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Preferred
Intrepid Travel
View Profile
Total Trips 1,729 Trips
Average Price
$ 203 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 4 – 43 days
Trip Prices $ 985 – $ 8,685
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Italy
56 Tours in Italy
In these challenging for travel times…
In these challenging for travel times we were having a calm dinner with my husband and it was really good to go back in our memories to January 2020 and remember our last travel with Interpid - the North Morocco Adventure - we had such a great and inspiring time time. Can't wait to see the restrictions lifted to join another one.
I have gone on multiple trips with…
I have gone on multiple trips with Intrepid travel and they have never let me down, honestly when everything opens up and countries start to relax their borders I will be booking another trip! In my own humble opinion COVID-19 has hit the tourism industry the hardest and frankly as a company they are trying their best to survive without sacrificing customer service and preserving the ability to support there workers in all the counties that they offer trips in. Everyone I have met on the tours and the booking staff have been passionate about travel, and have genuinely been interested in my travel experience. One thing I have learnt from travelling and the experiences I have gotten, is that during hard times, helping one another is so important! So I’ll do my small part by booking in the future to help get the travel industry going again!
“Costa Rica Experience“ trip was amazing + Love Intrepid
The purpose of this review is twofold, to review my last Intrepid Travel trip; and my overall experiences with the company.
Starting with the latter, I’ve now used Intrepid for nine (9) trips. Ranging from camping in South Africa, exploring the Balkans or the Colombian jungle, and this particular trip Costa Rica. My experiences have been awesome, both on the trips and also on overall transparency and communication. There’s a reason I would have been on trip #10 this summer (to Ukraine) had it not been cancelled due to Covid. I appreciate their transparency on all trip details, the desire to actually experience the local communities you visit, learn about local culture and give back to charitable organizations.
Specific to my most recent trip, which was taken over New Year’s (2019 2020) – I was on the “Costa Rica Experience” which featured time explore a few cities/towns, the beach, and most importantly the natural beauty of the country. Our guide, Marvin, was phenomenal – our group not only learned so much about the various national parks but the country, industry, and him. All my previous guides have been extremely personal, and Marvin was the embodiment of that – all while managing a group of 12 “strangers”. I say that in quotes, because for all my trips, while Day 1 feels a little like the first day of school, soon you’ve made new life-long friends. Sharing new experiences with like-minded travelers is amazing, and continuing those relationships year’s after is great.
As for the fundamentals, I’ve never felt in a compromised or unsafe situation while on any trip. The hotel accommodations are exactly what you should expect based on the selection of trip-type (Basic, Original, Comfort), and I’ve enjoyed both the optional and included executions. As for meals, while not everything is included as some other companies may, I really like this – it allows some flexibility but also to try new things. Going to a small village along the Nile River in Egypt for some local food? Yes please!
When Covid has subsided, I will be surely re-planning my 10th Intrepid Travel trip – hopefully back to Ukraine and a few surrounding countries.
Amalfi Coast Sailing Adventure
Trip Type: Small Ship Cruise
Italy Real Food Adventure
Trip Type: Small Group Tour
Cycle Tuscany
Trip Type: Small Group Tour
Intrepid Travel is all about ‘real life experiences.’ Founded back in 1989 following an “intrepid” African adventure trip, Intrepid lives up to its name by offering up some pretty big adventures -- such as an 11-day hike through Papua New Guinea -- but is broad-based enough to also lead group trips to Hawaii, complete with sipping sunset Mai Tais on Waikiki Beach.
Intrepid Travel - Quick Facts
Founded in 1989
No Single Supplement (rare exceptions)
Small Groups - max 16 on most trips
Typical Age Range - 18 - 45
Travel Style - Cultural immersion, adventure, overland
Accommodation Style - Camping, Hostels, 3 /4 star hotels
Average Tour Price - $2,377
Top Regions - Asia, Africa, Europe, South America
Other Brands: Peregrine
Commonly compared with G Adventures »
What Makes Intrepid Travel Stand Out?
Small group sizes (average 10 people)
Travelers from all walks of life
Well-balanced itineraries (group and free time allotted)
Guides are travel experts or friendly locals
Above all else, Intrepid strives to get its travelers off the beaten path and under the surface of the local culture. To accomplish this, group sizes average just 10 travelers each, with a maximum of 16 on most trips. This allows for more use of local transportation and lodging, along with fostering cultural immersion.
Intrepid also employs local English-speaking leaders who act more as a resource for local exploration than do typical ‘guides,’ shepherding groups from one place to another.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Intrepid Travel?
All ages (seniors included)
Adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts
Intrepid is one of the early pioneers of the “adventure” style small group guided tour. Despite its informal beginnings and emphasis on younger, highly adventurous travelers, Intrepid has expanded to a global company with a broad range of trips to fit all ages.
Intrepid divides its small-group trips into three separate styles of travel, all priced accordingly. “Basix,” for budget travelers, keep inclusions to a minimum and offer plenty of free time, “Original” journeys which offer more included activities and more hotels, while “Comfort” trips offer the highest level of included activities and standards of accommodation, as well as roomier vehicles.
The kind of traveler who gravitates to Intrepid Travel is one who has a real sense of adventure - whether this means hard adventure, or simply going deeper off the beaten path. Interacting with locals is an important factor when you travel, as is gaining a unique cultural perspective.
A sense of fun is also essential, whether it means going out at night with your tour mates or daring, ahem, encouraging each other to try strange new foods.
Top Destinations
Asia
South America
Africa
Europe
Originally focused on small group adventure tours to Asia, Intrepid has expanded rapidly over the years, while maintaining its classic, adventurous, and immersive style. Today Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 different experiences in over 100 countries, on all seven continents. Regions with the most trips include Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe.
Intrepid Travel Style
Intrepid enjoys using local, unique forms of transportation. You might find yourself traveling by felucca in Egypt, on a camel in Morocco, or in a tuk-tuk on the best Thailand tour of your life.
Accommodations, which could range from guesthouses to home stays, are also locally owned, allowing a more authentic taste of the region while contributing to the local economy.
There are a few broad travel styles to choose from when deciding on an Intrepid tour:
1. Basix - Budget travelers who don’t mind, and in fact prefer, simple accommodations - camping and homestays with basic amenities, and crave a lot of free time for exploring independently will love these tours. Public transportation is used exclusively so pack light! These trips often attract a younger crowd who love the idea of throwing a backpack on, keep plenty of room for the unexpected in their schedule, and allocate their travel funds towards spontaneous bus tickets and street food instead of museum tours and 5 star restaurants.
2. Original - These trips take the backpacker spirit of local immersion, incorporating all the benefits that come with going with a planned itinerary. This style is called “Original” because it’s the type of travel that put Intrepid on the map...pun intended. Accommodations are still simple and budget minded - often homestays are used to give you a true sense of place, personality, and culture. Mostly public transportation is used.
3. Comfort - Intrepid is known for the active adventure style of travel and these trips keep that mentality, with a few more creature comforts thrown into the mix. You can expect higher end, more discerning, accommodations that include a wider variety of included amenities, transportation is mostly private, though you can still expect to use some public transport, as is the Intrepid way. More meals are included in the trip price, and more group activities - which means a bit less free time to explore on your own.
Why Choose a Tour With Intrepid Travel?
Extensive free time during the tour
Culturally immersive travel
Wide age range
Authentic travel
Inexpensive trips
Sustainable travel practices
Intrepid is a good choice if you don’t mind foregoing some creature comforts for a truly authentic, local experience. If you enjoy meeting locals when traveling, sampling new and exciting foods, and traveling in mixed-aged groups of 10-16 people, Intrepid could be a good fit for you.
It’s important to note, sometimes “ample free time” can be a blessing and a curse. It sounds great on paper, but if you’re looking to maximize your dollar and your vacation time, be sure you understand the implications of having a lot of free time during your itinerary.
For some travelers this is an absolute requirement, but for others it can be tough to branch off and explore independently - you also need to make sure you allocate enough travel money for independent meals.
The tour leaders are great resources of information for how to spend your free time, but if you like having a full day scheduled from breakfast to dinner, Intrepid may not be the best company for you.
Lastly, if sustainable and responsible travel is important to you, Intrepid has poured millions of dollars into local economies, and has a very strong emphasis on responsible travel. So you can feel good knowing that your money helps support some of the innkeepers, vendors, and communities that you’ll meet along the way.
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Uniworld
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Total Trips 239 Trips
Average Price
$ 429 per day
Size Regional Expert
Tour Length 8 – 10 days
Trip Prices $ 2,799 – $ 3,399
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
River Cruise Line
Trips in Italy
10 Tours in Italy
better the second time around?
This was our 6th Uniworld and 2nd time down part of the Danube.
local guides very good; better than last time. food remains excellent; lunch food choices in particular are better than before. service, in particular Dining room, remains excellent. servers really attempt to learn food and drink preferences. front desk service is excellent. small improvements in room (chocolate jar; audio box chargers in closet; closet hanger rods more like home than ship) appreciated.
the ship is starting to need updating; our shower stall needed to be re-grouted; deck might need to be refinished in areas. elevator never worked during cruise; 24 hr. coffee machine malfunctioned for 3 days. the itinerary itself isn't full of "must-sees" but has has sights and experiences that might be hard for you to do on your own with just a guidebook.
While cruise wasn't perfect, we would travel with Uniworld again; possibly even down the Danube a 3rd time, but on a newer ship.
Professioal, friendly and unforgetable experience for the cruise
The facility on ship was good. Staff servicing us were very professionally good. For the meals it was indeed very nice especially the kitchen was able to provide some Asian dishes that is fantastically great.
Highly recommend
Me and Nena are in cruise business more than 38 years and booked so many river cruises in Europe and charter ships in Russia, India, Egypt and Ukraine. Uniworld offer excellent cruise and we highly recommend this great company.
Venice & the Gems of Northern Italy
Trip Type: River Cruise
Gems of Northern Italy
Trip Type: River Cruise
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, part of the giant Travel Corporation umbrella of tour companies and cruise lines, is a luxury, all-inclusive line offering itineraries on a total of 22 rivers in 29 countries worldwide.
What Makes Uniworld Stand Out?
Uniworld provides the pinnacle of luxury river cruising. They are known for their attention to detail, and extremely warm and attentive customer service. Traveling with Uniworld is to enter another world and experience the joy and comfort that comes with unpacking once, and really catering the journey to your pace.
Many excursions are available during the cruise, as well as top line on-board activities and dining.
Like other Travel Corporation brands, Uniworld contributes to the not-for-profit TreadRight Foundation, which works to promote sustainable tourism projects worldwide.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Uniworld?
Uniworld is perfect for those travelers who are looking to relax, only upack once, and can somewhat cater their experience once aboard the river cruise - enjoying as many or as few port excursions (extra fee) or simply exploring on your own before it’s time to leave port.
River cruising with Uniworld is a luxurious experience. Staff are attentive, everything is crisp and clean, and much attention to detail is paid to make sure your experience on board is enjoyable and every possible need is met.
It’s a “dress for dinner” kind of experience aboard Uniworld. Where you can enjoy fine wine, food, and appreciate a bit of a throwback feel. During the days many active travel opportunities can be found such as cycling and walking tours, or if you prefer you can dial it down to enjoy at your own pace. Travelers are often older, in the 50 plus range, many couples, and some friend groups.
Top Destinations?
Destinations include a number of European rivers as well as those in Russia, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Egypt, and India (India cruises begin in 2016, aboard the new Ganges II Explorer).
Uniworld Travel Style
Uniworld ships average a maximum of 130 passengers, and the staff-to-guest ratio is very high. The line is noted for its service and cuisine and has won numerous industry awards. All-inclusive pricing includes unlimited beverages aboard, shore excursions and gratuities, with just a few exceptions.
Why Choose a Cruise with Uniworld?
If you’re looking for a top of the line luxury travel experience on some of the world’s most picturesque rivers, then Uniworld is a fantastic option.
These trips are best suited for active older travelers. There are many excursions available and the amenities on board, service, and culture all create an unforgettable luxury river cruise experience.
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Peregrine Adventures
View Profile
Total Trips 877 Trips
Average Price
$ 396 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 8 – 39 days
Trip Prices $ 2,765 – $ 14,370
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Italy
47 Tours in Italy
Expect I'm not the only one
they are 'fair weather friends'
I did not receive so much as an email advising of changes in the cancellation policy, discovered when I contacted them to cancel.
I now receive automated emails/msgs as I attempt to work through this.
The email states I may contact them on 31 July to discuss the matter!....4 months away.
I'm absolutely stunned by how shoddy this outfit is....who knew?!
Out of pocket $4000.
Expect I'm not the only one.
Highly Recommended
Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
Highly Recommended
Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
Cruise Croatia: Venice to Dubrovnik via Split
Trip Type: Small Group Tour
Cruising Croatia's Northern Coast & Islands: Venice to Split
Trip Type: Small Ship Cruise
Walking in Italy: Tuscany
Trip Type: Small Group Tour
With Peregrine Adventures, ‘anywhere is possible.’ Based in Australia, Peregrine has led small-group, ‘soft’ adventure-style trips worldwide for over 30 years. It was one of the first operators to employ local leaders, a practice that is now widespread in guided travel.
What Makes Them Stand Out?
While considering itself an adventure travel company, Peregrine promises to “smooth down the bumps and rough edges.” In short, it’s more about soft adventure with added comforts than roughing it. Group sizes are kept small, with no more than 16 travelers per trip. Its philosophy is that while “seeing the famous sites is a must, it’s those memories of wandering through a little village or sharing dinner with a local family that leave a lasting impression.” The small-group aspect allows for more time to absorb the nature of the places visited, and to make a minimal environmental impact on them as well.
Who Travels With Them?
While Peregrine is a global company, many of its travelers originate from Australia and New Zealand. However, their groups can be geographically diverse, with most travelers 50+ years of age.
Where Do They Operate? Peregrine offers a wide variety of exciting global destinations, with 200 trips across 80 countries -- spanning from Egypt to Turkey to Canada trips! The company is perhaps best known for its Himalayan trekking excursions to far-flung destinations including Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It was a pioneer in high-altitude trekking and these trips remain among their most popular today.
How Does it Work?
Most travel is by private, air-conditioned minibus, but you might find yourself on a houseboat in Kerala, India, a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, or a mountain lift on the best Switzerland tour you've ever experienced. Lodging and dining is at smaller, locally run hotels and restaurants. You might also dine with locals from time to time, and stay with local families or at campsites as well.
Why Travel With Them?
Peregrine is a good choice if you’re looking for a bit of a softer landing with respect to transportation and accommodations but still crave an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. If you’re looking for more individual travel, Peregrine will craft independent journeys, arrange self-guided walking and cycling tours, or arrange private group and tailor-made trips. It’s your choice. Peregrine also helps support various community and conservation projects via its ties with the Intrepid Foundation.
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Great Value Vacations
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Total Trips 406 Trips
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 5 – 12 days
Trip Prices $ 612 – $ 3,161
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Italy
29 Tours in Italy
Do NOT use Great Value Vacations!
Absolutely avoid this company! As well as American Tours International as this is their parent/sister company. If they cancel your trip for any reason, you will not get your money back even if you purchased the trip insurance! Doesn’t matter if they are the ones that cancel your trip - still not getting your money back. Our original trip was cancelled due to Covid and we were told we had to use our trip credit within 6 months. We did rebook in an effort to not lose $6,000 and the trip was beyond disappointing since we missed out on so many things we would have done if everything wasn’t still shut down due to Covid restrictions. 6 months is an absolutely ridiculous timeframe to require someone to reschedule when the world is in a pandemic!!! We rebooked with the Northern California tour which included in the description San Fran, Sonoma, Lake Tahoe, and Yosemite National Park.
Our hotel is Sonoma was terrible and the toilet didn’t even work in our room and was never fixed after multiple complaints and wouldn’t give us a new room either. Also GVV puts you in the cheapest rooms possible, I noticed on the hotel vouchers that GVV emailed me - it would say things like Mountain View room as requested and not a lake view room when we were staying in Lake Tahoe. Our hotel in Lake Tahoe didn’t even have AC in the room and it was 90 degrees while we were there. They are putting their guests in the cheapest options for hotels!!
They also changed our hotels 3 times before we ever left for our trip and then called us to let us know of the last minute changes while we were already in California. Good thing I checked my own email since their “helpful” call came after we arrived.
Also, even though the trip said Yosemite National Park it didn’t actually include reservations to the park nor did they let us know that we needed reservations during Covid. They made ZERO effort to make sure we had a positive experience during the pandemic or help us with any new travel plans with our new booking. Absolutely worthless company!
Once they get your money, this is the absolute worst company to deal with. Since they didn’t give me an option to review their terrible customer service, I’m going on my own and finding other ways to let the public know to never book through GVV or ATI!!
AWESOME in every way!!
Dionte was the travel expert who helped us. She was AMAZING!! She knew the answer to every question I could possibly come up with! Best experience in booking a vacation, EVER!
We love the trips we have booked…
We love the trips we have booked through Great Value Vacations. The customer service is topnotch and the website super easy to navigate. We will definitely book future trips! Thanks so much.
Jordan and Vicki
Great Value Vacations provides pre-packaged, competitively priced vacation itineraries suitable to all traveler types.
What Makes Great Value Vacations Stand Out?
Unlike traditional guided tours, Great Value Vacations provides professionally planned packages for independent travelers booking a vacation. Everything from flights to car rental is available through the Great Value Vacations booking process.
Itineraries are designed by locals, so you can get a true sense of local authentic living while on your vacation.
Their packages are competitively priced, and designed by an extensive network of travel experts. You can choose from among several types of trip and their reviews speak for themselves in customer satisfaction.
Accommodations and activities are hand selected by their local experts or the “feet on the street” as they call it. They choose only the highest quality places to send you and your travel companions.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Great Value Vacations?
Travelers who want a fully vetted itinerary and the peace of mind that comes with having all components taken care of will love the experience of a Great Value Vacations package. Because of the great variety they have available, families, older travelers, and young professionals can all find something suitable on Great Value Vacations.
It’s important to note that these trips are not a traditional group tour or private tour, with a guide. If you are looking for a different kind of packaged pre-set itinerary with a fellow group of travelers, we recommend checking out a few different group tour companies.
These packages are great for independent minded travelers who still like the idea of a professionally planned itinerary, with unique experiences and activities, but plenty of free time. Great Value Vacations is also great for having all services in one place - including visa information, flight booking, hotel booking, and car rental.
Great Value Vacations is also a great options for budget travelers. They partner with various deals sites like Groupon to provide ongoing deals and specials (although the voucher system might be a bit complicated).
Top Destinations
Great Value Vacations operates tours in Africa, Asia, Europe, and The Caribbean. Travel styles include everything from all inclusive resort experiences, to quaint Bed & Breakfasts, to fully escorted tours, to rail journeys.
Great Value Vacations Travel Style
The Great Value Vacations travel style is about convenience coupled with confidence - for an unforgettable adventure. Most of their packages involve driving, and their rental car availability is comprehensive as well as a big part of the value when using a Great Value Vacations package.
Itineraries include detailed directions, all your hotel information, and other important documents are available within 30 days of your booking. You are required to print all necessary documents provided to you via their Traveler Portal.
Most packages include a few guided day tours and several activities ranging from cultural to active.
There are several vacation types and themes to choose from that are available through Great Value Vacations. These include everything from Luxury to Self Drive Vacations (which is one of their most popular).
Why Choose a Tour with Great Value Vacations?
For the ease of booking a package all in one place, Great Value Vacations is a top choice. Their packages have the propensity to be a bit standard, however given that they are created by local experts - all itineraries bring a little something special to the itinerary. You’ll definitely see the important sites, as well as get some locally immersive hidden gems.
They bring all facets of planning travel into one place, at a competitive price, taking care of all the factors that can make planning travel stressful. They have an easy to use online booking system, eliminating the need for you to take any extra steps.
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CostSaver
View Profile
Total Trips 33 Trips
Size Regional Expert
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Italy
14 Tours in Italy
Refund refused for tour canceled by Costsaver
I reserved a tour O& Europe in early 2019 for a tour commencing in June 2020. The terms of cancelation by Costsaver in effect at time of booking offered a full refund. Costsaver canceled the tour in April 2020 due to COVID -19 and refuses to give a refund as they have changed their terms and are claiming Force Majoure. They offer a future tour credit if used by 2021. I don’t plan on taking another tour so I am out the $900 that I have invested in the canceled tour.
I will never book with this company again.
I booked a trip in August 2019 for June 2020 date. Not only was I charged a different amount from the quote I was given, but then the trip was cancelled. I purchased travel insurance for nothing. I am now told that no refunds will be given and the credit is only good for those who were on the original itinerary. Not to mention when I call the airline, they say they can’t help because the airfare has not been canceled yet. I have tried communicating with the agent we booked with and he is just rude. I asked to speak to someone else or his supervisor and he told me there is no one. I have filled out contact forms and no one is following up. Terrible way to treat customers. I will never book with this company again.
the tours you offer are brilliant
the tours you offer are brilliant
Gate 1 Travel
View Profile
Total Trips 3,439 Trips
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 8 – 18 days
Trip Prices $ 429 – $ 5,249
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Italy
184 Tours in Italy
Nothing but good experiences!
I have traveled with Gate 1 several times both on guided and independent trips. My experience has always been positive. I have never encountered a problem or misrepresentation from them. On a guided trip to Croatia and Slovenia, they provided additional meals that were not on the scheduled itinerary when there were some delays due to traffic. All representatives I have dealt with are very professional and helpful. I had a trip booked for Egypt that Gate 1 cancelled due to COVID19. I have a full credit for what I paid to use towards another Gate 1 trip and cannot wait for travel to open up so I can go with Gate 1 again. I highly recommend this company!
Beginning of this year
Beginning of this year I have booked a trip to Peru with Gate1travel for June of this year after Gate1travel had been highly recommended. Well, what can I tell you, with the Pandemic that nobody expected, the vacation including the flight was cancelled. I did get a refund for the vacation part, but I am still waiting on the refund for the airfare, which was the majority of the expense. Latham airline refers me to Gate1travel for any refunds as Gate1travel had booked the flights, and Gate1travel blames everything on the airline. And here I am, the consumer, that paid in good faith for a promise that was not kept, or for a product that was never received.
While I understand the special circumstances everybody is dealing with during this Pandemic, I want to point out that it not only hit the travel industry, but any and everybody around.
We are all trying to get thru those unprecedented times as good as we can, while trying to stick to our values and do the right thing.
And that’s what I am hoping for, writing this message. The right thing.
Can’t wait to book our next trip with Gate 1!!!
Our first Gate 1 experience was a trip to Scandinavia in 2016 and we have been on three more trips since then. Unfortunately, we missed out on two Gate 1 trips in 2020 due to the pandemic. First, prices for Gate 1’s escorted tours can’t be beat when compared with other travel companies. Booking is easy and the travel agents have always been responsive to helping us. (Thanks Sean C!) Next, the guides are so knowledgeable, personable, and helpful. Gate 1 provides a planned itinerary including extra (and sometimes delightfully unexpected) experiences. We have also enjoyed meeting other fellow Gate 1 travelers. Finally, we want to learn more about the world by meeting people from other countries and seeing the world and Gate 1 is our travel partner. Can’t wait to book our next trip with Gate 1!!!
13 Day Rhine River Cruise with Italian Lakes & Swiss Alps 2020 Itinerary
Trip Type: River Cruise
9 Day Four Star Venice, Florence & Rome by Rail 2020 Itinerary
Trip Type: Self-guided / Independent Tour
9 Day Four Star Venice, Florence & Rome by Rail (Los Angeles Special) 2020 Itinerary
Trip Type: Self-guided / Independent Tour
Founded in 1981 with three employees and based in suburban Philadelphia, Gate 1 now employs more than 200 people worldwide with offices in 20 countries, ranging from Hungary to Cambodia, Argentina to Israel.
What Makes Gate 1 Stand Out?
Escorted tours & river cruises
Good value
High quality guides
Gate 1 offers a variety of tour packages and river cruises around the world, promising to provide exceptional value for the price. They focus on North American travelers who seek “high quality, yet affordable” guided trips, with accommodations ranging from superior tourist to moderate deluxe class.
They have a lot of different choices when it comes to destinations, durations, and inclusions. Most tours have additional offerings for meals, activities, and excursions available for additional fees.
Traveler reviews for Gate 1 oscillate between 5 star and 1 star experiences. Those that have had an excellent time cite the tour pacing, guides, and extensive sightseeing opportunities as positives.
Those for whom these same factors contributed to a negative experience may have had higher expectations than is available or offered for the competitive budget prices that Gate 1 is known for.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Gate 1?
All ages
Low to mid budget travelers
Those open to simple accommodation and meal plans
Gate 1 is the perfect travel choice for families, couples, and friend groups seeking a cost efficient journey. As Gate 1 is a strictly budget minded brand, it’s important to be fully aware of the trade-off when you choose to travel with them.
You will see a lot, and be out and about visiting several sites - however keeping costs low is one of their main priorities. This means hotels will be basic, meals won’t be 5 star, and your coach will have fewer amenities. In addition tours with Gate 1 feature several optional add ons and sightseeing tours, not included in the base price. Average tour price is around $2,000, often less.
If you’re flexible, open minded, and are interested in maximizing your sightseeing above all else, Gate 1 could be for you. Knowing what to expect is key for enjoying the trip to the fullest.
Top Destinations
Gate 1 trips cover much of the world, including destinations in North, Central, and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Itineraries focus on the top sights, historical attractions, and national parks.
Gate 1 Travel Style
In a nutshell, the Gate 1 travel style is “see a lot for a little”. Hotels and accommodations are usually 3 star hotels. Expect basic comforts, with fewer amenities available. However if you’re the kind of traveler for whom a bed and some coffee in the morning is a fine trade-off for busy days outside and tons of sightseeing, the trade-off will be worth it.
You will be met on the ground with a dedicated tour leader, available to assist throughout your travel experience.
Escorted group bus tours are a big part of their business - between 24-42 people. These coaches are again, more utility focused than amenity focused, but you will be comfortable. And in general bus tours take frequent stops to allow for stretching legs and using of facilities.
Gate 1 also offers small group tours (with a maximum of 22 people), river cruises on two continents, independent city stays and fly and drive packages, rail packages, customized vacations, and combination bus/cruise tours -- something for almost everyone interested in a budget vacation.
Why Choose a Tour With Gate 1?
For the budget traveler, Gate 1 is a fantastic choice. They offer several types of trip package to choose from, including rail, river cruise, and small group tours, at competitive rates. Their escorted tours are extremely popular, and customers repeat trips with them regularly.
While Gate 1 is the primary brand, and they are all about giving a positive and packed international travel experience on a budget, other brands associated with Gate 1 are more premium focused. These include the Signature collection, offering luxury tour options and smaller groups.
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Avalon Waterways
View Profile
Total Trips 950 Trips
Average Price
$ 378 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 12 – 22 days
Trip Prices $ 4,444 – $ 8,607
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
River Cruise Line
Trips in Italy
22 Tours in Italy
No Refund Offered
My friends and I had a European river cruise scheduled for May, 2020. All final payments were made at the beginning of this year. In March, 2020 we were advised that Avalon had "paused" European operations until the end of April. Subsequently, because of travel restrictions, all operations were discontinued. I requested a refund through my travel agent and was informed that I would only receive a Letter of Credit for travel ending December 2022. I was further told I could use this credit with Globus Travel here in the US for a couple vacations. I am over 70 years old and paid over $6,000 for this trip. I do not want a credit for US trips. I feel if this is how they are treating customers maybe a class action suit is necessary. I will never book with this company or recommend to anyone.
We took a small group on the Paris to…
We took a small group on the Paris to Normandy tour recently as my wife Regina is an independent travel agent. It was, in a word, 'awesome'! The professional service that we received from the captain and Avalon crew was wonderful. The food and wine onboard was consistently superb. The onshore excursions were fascinating and very well done. Our favorite part was the tour of Monet's gardens in Giverny - 'tre fantastique'! Also seeing the American War Memorial in Normandy was deeply moving. Can't say enough about this tour!! Many thanks to the Avalon crew and excellent guides for making it a trip of a lifetime!! Merci beaucoup!!
Brian & Regina Sneed
Have a cruise booked for October 2020
Have a cruise booked for October 2020. Our final payment is due in one week. We have to pay final instalment (they won’t postpone it) to have any kind of recourse or lose our $1100 deposit. I asked to speak to a manager about their policies and was told she would not speak with me. All they kept saying was go through your travel agent. Will never book with them again!
Grand France with 1 Night in Marseille, 3 Nights in Venice & 3 Nights in Rome (Northbound)
Trip Type: River Cruise
Part of the Globus family of travel brands since 2003, Avalon Waterways has proven to be one of the more innovative of the many river cruise companies now in operation.
Its newest “Suite” ships feature “open-air balconies” with floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to serve as indoor-outdoor seating areas, which don’t cut into cabin space as do normal balconies -- meaning you have more room to move around. Bathrooms are also roomy.
What Makes Avalon Waterways Stand Out?
While global in scale, Avalon Waterways is best known for offering high-end cruises on brand new ships on European rivers. The oldest of the 15 Europe-based ships dates from just 2008, which makes it the youngest fleet of any size on European rivers.
Newer ships generally mean that staterooms are larger and amenities are enhanced.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Avalon Waterways?
While the majority of river cruise travelers are in the 50-plus range, more and more middle aged couples have been enjoying river cruises as well. Avalon is a good place to start, particularly for the more exotic destinations like the Mekong in Asia or the Amazon in South America.
Travelers seeking a luxury minded cruise experience, without an overly pomp and circumstance feel, will love cruising the world’s rivers with Avalon.
If you’re wary of river cruising as an extension of the “floating hotel”, Avalon makes sure that a focus on the region itself is felt onboard as well as through the port excursions. Local ingredients are used to make traditional dishes, and beer, wine, and spirits of the area are also showcased.
Casual and comfortable, combining a relaxed atmosphere with a fine dining calibur food and wine, Avalon presents a quiet elegance without being stuffy.
Travelers who like choice will appreciate Avalon’s numerous options when it comes to port excursion activities. Starting in 2019 and unlike many cruises, a majority of these excursions will be included in the price.
Top Destinations
Avalon is well known for their Europe cruises, but they travel all over the world as well. They have five ships in Asia (sailing the Yangtze, Mekong and Irrawaddy rivers), and one ship each in the United States (the American Queen, which sails the Mississippi) and South America (the Aria, which plies the Amazon). Avalon runs small-ship cruises through the Galapagos Islands as well.
Avalon Waterways Travel Style
The comfort of their passengers is top of mind for Avalon. Whether this means the spacious viewing deck or numerous excursions available to satisfy different interests.
There is a sense of casual elegance that Avalon portrays. The culture on board is professional while still friendly, and the furnishings are not overly opulent.
Another thing that makes Avalon stand out is their attention to staying active and healthy. They have been a frontrunner in river cruises providing bikes and other ways to be active in each port stop.
Why Choose a Cruise with Avalon Waterways?
Avalon Cruises are comfortable, fun, and active. This is the perfect choice of cruise company for older affluent travelers seeking top notch river cruise experiences around the world.
Considering the spaciousness and innovativeness of its cabins, the fact that shore excursions and multiple dining options are included in the rates, and a chance to take advantage of some attractive early-booking discounts, Avalon can offer excellent value.
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Cosmos
View Profile
Total Trips 545 Trips
Average Price
$ 175 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 32 days
Trip Prices $ 899 – $ 4,644
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Italy
64 Tours in Italy
Excellent Experience and Excellent Guide
I would highly recommend this company and some trips to Scandinavia and Baltic. The countries are amazing, the service and our guide Ausra Paukste was really the best ever. If you wish to visit this region consider Cosmos company.
Awesome & The Best!
We had a most wonderful trip! Our tour guide & driver were excellent! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about France, & told us a little history, about every town we visited! Hotels great!
Terrible
Expectations were fairly high and they were still exceeded. We considered this the best trip we have ever taken and my wife and I have zero complaints.
Italy & Greece with Aegean Cruise
Trip Type: Group Tour
Italy & Greece
Trip Type: Group Tour
The Splendors of Italy
Trip Type: Group Tour
Cosmos promises to “turn your travel dreams into reality” by offering affordable tours in several parts of the world. Part of the Globus group of travel brands, Cosmos has been running escorted tours for five decades since the 1960s. It touts its clout with hotels and other travel providers as a way of keeping down costs, with savings passed on to their customers. Most expenses are included in the tours, though you may be on your own for some meals and optional excursions.
Cosmos started out offering value-priced European coach tours for budget-minded travelers, and now has added North American, South American, and some Middle East and North African destinations as well. Religious-themed tours of southern Europe and Israel as well as holiday season tours are all part of the mix.
The company emphasizes that when you tour Europe, for example, you’ll stay like Europeans do, eat like Europeans do, and “share the European view of Europe.” That generally means comfortable but not luxury hotels, well-chosen neighborhood restaurants, varied means of transportation, and guided sightseeing of all the “must-see” sites, with extended stays in key cities. Cosmos also offers plenty of free time to explore on your own, a way of personalizing your group tour a bit.
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Alexander + Roberts
View Profile
Total Trips 304 Trips
Average Price
$ 391 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 7 days
Trip Prices $ 1,699 – $ 1,699
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Italy
1 Tours in Italy
The smoothness of all aspects of the trip
The smoothness of all aspects of the trip and the guides, staff and food on the Oberoi Philae were exceptional
Paid In Full to Go Nowhere
I chose the small group China Sampler and paid in full in December 2018 for the April 2020 departure to get the $300 discount. After that it was just waiting and waiting and waiting. I was looking to start making airline flight plans to and return from China in April 2019. But when my travel agent contacted A&R she discovered that I was the only one signed up for the small group tour. This continued through the remainder of 2019. I actually called A&R direct one day to find out what was going on. I was then told about the 90 day out policy before they would cancel the trip. I asked a couple of times through my travel agent if A&R could just go ahead and cancel out the tour and refund my money, but was told there might be some last minute people to sign up for a trip to China. So basically A&R had my $5,000 plus fully paid fee to invest and use as they chose for over a year. January 10 or 20 was the 90 day before date I was told when a decision would be made to cancel. On January 9th I checked the website of A&R and saw by the small group tour for April 9-19 the words "Sold Out". So I'm thinking "Oh, maybe they did get enough last minute people to go?" So I sent my travel agent info on what airline flights I would like to take to China and back. The next day I was sent an email from my agent letting me know that A&R had cancelled the April small group trip to China for the dates I had selected. So the "Sold Out" descriptor apparently was an attempt to save face by not admitting they could not fill the small group trip with enough people to make the trip happen. Not a very "transparent" policy. About a month before A&R did offer to have me join the May China Sampler trip, but those dates did not meet my travel plans. I never received an apology directly from A&R. No offer for a discount on a future tour, nothing. Last time I will ever consider A&R for any type of tour.
Our wonderful guides were so knowledgeable
Our wonderful guides were so knowledgeable, friendly, detailed, and concerned about our experience that they made our trip all the more enjoyable. Because I had been sick in Morocco, the A & R agent in Cairo met our plane with medication for me. I was truly appreciative of that as I was able to enjoy the rest of the trip. The food was delicious and copious!
Italy By Rail
Trip Type: Self-guided / Independent Tour
Founded in 1947, Alexander + Roberts holds the distinction of being one of the oldest guided tour companies around, and a founding member of USTOA. Unlike many tour companies, they focus equally on small group, private group, and customized travel.
What Makes Alexander + Roberts Stand Out
Historical legacy
Authentic experiences
Exotic and classic destinations
Local guides
Unique itineraries
Alexander + Roberts has over 70 years of tour experience. In fact, the company was the first to provide guided tours of the former Soviet Union during the Cold War era. Since then, A + R have been pioneers, traveling to new far-flung locations like Burma and Cuba before many other operators.
There can be a tendency for old and established guided travel companies to seem out of touch and stuffy, while also getting unwieldy if they try too hard to adapt to the modern traveler.
Alexander + Roberts has managed to remain firm to their classic yet innovative roots - an old fashioned charm comes across. You’ll find a blend of classic itineraries as well as more unique experiences and themes.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Alexander + Roberts?
Affluent travelers
50+ and Seniors
Couples
Active travelers
Alexander + Roberts is a US-based tour operator for the affluent traveler wanting to venture beyond the ordinary in a comfortable manner. A + R is best for those travelers looking for a small-group experience with an added element of luxury. They also offer private journeys, custom itineraries, and fully supported independent travel options.
This is not budget travel by any means. Unlike most tour companies today that don’t require a single supplement, they do (for most tours) at “only $700”. Many activities and meals are included on Alexander + Roberts small group tours.
So if you have more of an independent streak and would like some flexibility but aren’t interested in a private or tailor made trip, you may want to explore other tour companies that provide more free time during the itinerary.
If you’re looking for a professionally planned trip with expertise, luxury, and attention to detail baked into the price then Alexander + Roberts is a good place to start.
Top Destinations
A + R offers hundreds of trips on six continents, including Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America. They also offer small-ship cruising in the Americas, Antarctica, Asia, and Europe.
Alexander + Roberts Travel Style
Small groups (16 max)
Private travel
Tailor made travel
Most meals and activities included
Alexander + Roberts purposefully keeps their tour group sizes small - maximum 16, for added flexibility and authenticity. Hotels are a mix of unique local and boutique properties, all with a touch of luxury. Most meals are included on their standard group departures and guides are local, with the in-depth knowledge that comes with it.
Why Choose a Tour with Alexander + Roberts?
If you’re looking for a refined experience that still gets you under the surface of a destination, then Alexander & Roberts could be for you. Their trips are not cheap, but do provide good value with many inclusions and years of experience in the industry.
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Discovery Tours by Gate 1
View Profile
Total Trips 135 Trips
Average Price
$ 473 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 11 – 14 days
Trip Prices $ 3,099 – $ 4,199
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Italy
8 Tours in Italy
The fact that they have excellent tours
A friend of mine suggested I post this on Gate 1's site (from my wall), so here goes:
I was able to call Gate 1 and transfer the credit from our canceled Greece trip toward the unpaid balance of our Galapagos trip which is scheduled for September of next year. Once the refund comes in from Austrian Airlines for the airfare, I'll be able to transfer that, as well. This sort of ease of customer service is one of the many things I love about Gate 1 Travel.
The first trip we took with them, the one to Turkey in 2010, we were deciding whether or not to book it, and we missed the advertised discount ($400 per person) by one day. I decided to call them, and see if they might still honor it one day late, as it would make a difference as to whether we would book the trip or not. They accommodated us and gave us the discount. First impressions matter, and this made a good one. They continue to impress and, ultimately, it was a wise business move on their part, since we've booked many other trips since then, as well as had friends book with them due to our recommendation.
Of course, the fact that they have excellent tours which are affordable on a budget, along with top notch tour guides, is the premier reason why the Galapagos was going to be our 14th trip using Gate 1.
What a coincidence that the Greece trip which got canceled (due to Covid) was our 13th booking with them. Still, I like the number 13, so no triskaidekaphobia here.
I trust Gate 1 with the safety of my clients.
When you book your air travel through Gate 1, they care for you from the time you land until the time you take off. As a travel agent, I trust Gate 1 with the safety of my clients.
14 Day Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia 2020 Itinerary
Trip Type: Small Group Tour
A section of Gate 1 tours, Discovery Tours provides immersive cultural experiences for budget minded travelers.
What Makes Discovery Tours Gate 1 Stand Out?
They are dedicated to keeping their travel groups small (max 22) in order to provide a culturally rich experience that everyone on the tour can enjoy to the fullest. They stress the intimate and immersive nature of their itineraries which visit unique destinations around the globe.
Their focus on small groups allows them to offer interesting and off the beaten path activities and accommodations, as well as a high level of personalized attention from the guides.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Discovery Tours Gate 1?
Groups are international, typically attended by the 35-50+ age range. This is quintessential small group travel. You’ll have a dedicated professional guide - often a local - and an expert in the country.
If you enjoy a well rounded tour that focuses just as much on meeting locals and visiting off the beaten path spots as on the tourist highlights, then a Discovery Gate 1 tour would suit you nicely.
The balance of sightseeing to more unique experiences means their a great option for first time travelers or a repeat visit to a country you want to see again.
Tours are budget conscious - many activities are included with some optional excursions available for an extra fee allowing you to somewhat cater your own experience.
Top Destinations
Discovery Tours travel to multiple countries around the world in the Americas, Europe, Asia & the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, and Africa.
Discovery Tours Gate 1 Travel Style
Gate 1’s Discovery Tours brand, combines the budget mindfulness of Gate 1 with the exclusivity of their Signature Collection to provide an immersive, culturally rich small group travel experience.
Group size is no larger than 22, and typically the average is more like 12-15 people. This allows for much more intimate and unique experiences when it comes to meals, accommodations, and activities.
It also means there is more room for spontaneity, such as stopping the bus to hop out and enjoy a local market before continuing on to your next destination.
Many activities and excursions are already included in the itinerary, which is relatively unusual for these more budget minded travel options. That said, not all excursions are included - which gives you the flexibility to pick and choose how you’d like to spend your time.
A lot of activities during the tour are designed to be hands on, providing a real glimpse into the culture. Ample free time is provided as well, where you can spend some time exploring on your own.
While you will hit the major sites, the balance is definitely more heavily weighted on off the beaten path experiences - meeting locals and enjoying a more authentic view of the destination.
Why Choose a Tour with Discovery Tours Gate 1?
This is a group tour experience for people who have an adventurous spirit but are looking for a nice balance of being taken care of and independence. Each trip offers a number of optional sightseeing tours for purchase, to further provide context to your destination.
Or you can choose to explore on your own. If a small group tour experience almost anywhere in the world is what you’re looking for, give their extensive list of itineraries a browse.
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Preferred
SmarTours
View Profile
Total Trips 70 Trips
Average Price
$ 259 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 9 – 10 days
Trip Prices $ 2,949 – $ 3,199
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Italy
2 Tours in Italy
Fantastic Experience!
Would do it again in a heartbeat! My you tube playlist of our adventure..https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLppLkjmuXArn1NMiGpTZn7ju0vQRZBQ8P
Dissappointing Vietnam & Cambodia
The countries are fantastic. The Hotels were great. The schedule and timing were terrible. Arriving at Siem Reap (one of the possible best parts of the whole tour) at 5:00pm we were informed it closes at 6:00pm and we would have to rush around. - 1 hour to visit !!!!. Simialrily we spent 4 days at Hoi An and Hue (relaxing!!) where ther is little to see after perhaps 4/5 hours in total. We arrived at Halong Bay at about 6pm - with no time to do anything and early the next morning we had to check out to start our trip back to Hanoi. To summarise quickly. Wherever the hotels were expensive (regardless of the local attractions) we had VERY LITTLE time (or none). Where hotels were inexpensive (Hoi An , Hue) we spent 4 nights - with very little to see of any significant nature. All the hotels were excellent and the tour guides did a great job BUT for us and a good number on our tour that wanted to see the HIGHLIGHTS of Cambodia/Vietnam we were all VERY Dissappointed. This is how Smarttours keeps prices competitive by keeping the hotel costs to a minimum.
Excellent Tour
Excellent tour to Portugal! Guide Mena was wonderful! Joyce
Spirit of Sicily
Trip Type: Group Tour
The Best of Italy
Trip Type: Group Tour
Founded in 1996, smarTours promises its customers the “Best Travel Bargains” by offering mostly all-inclusive guided tours throughout much of the world.
What Makes SmarTours Stand Out?
Airfare included
Affordable trips
Numerous ways to save
Local guides
Destinations around the world
SmarTours offers affordable tours along with great itineraries. Included in the price of all their tours is international airfare from the U.S., first-class hotels, sightseeing excursions, and English-speaking local guides.
SmarTours draws a large repeat business, taking travelers to such far-flung destinations as Thailand, Morocco, Japan, Peru, Patagonia, India, and Australia.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with SmarTours?
Budget travelers
Social travelers
History and culture lovers
Travelers who love traveling and care about experiencing the destination above all else - tourist sites, history, and culture - will love the feel of a SmarTours trip.
These tours are definitely for the budget minded - SmarTours offers numerous deals and specials throughout the year, and provides many other ways you can save money as well, including referring your friends and being a repeat SmarTours traveler.
Trips are comfortable and well guided, if not luxury or especially unique in tone. Airfare is included, which is a major selling point for SmarTours travelers.
SmarTours is perfect for the traveler who wants to get the most out of their travel experience, in terms of inclusions and time spent exploring the sites, both with a guide and with free time. If you are looking for a more cultivated, personalized experience, the SmarTours focus on keeping costs low doesn’t always allow for this. That said, this is budget travel that strives to appeal to a wider range.
SmarTours caters to all ages that are looking for good prices. They are largely popular amongst middle aged, 50+ travelers, and families.
Top Destinations
SmarTours travels all over the world, including Africa, Asia, South America and Cuba, Western and Eastern Europe, and the Mediterranean. Diverse itineraries are available in each destination.
SmarTours Travel Style
Large coaches
River and small ship cruises
Except for its cruise offerings -- primarily river cruises as well as Greek Island and Galapagos cruises -- transportation is generally by bus. Group sizes can reach 40 and beyond, but may also be smaller depending on the popularity of the trip. SmarTours will design custom trips for groups with at least 25-30 travelers.
Accommodations are between value and premium, comfortable with a step above basic amenities. You won’t spend much time in your hotel, as SmarTours makes the focus about the travel experiences on the ground. They care about ensuring that you have as much time as possible to explore with the guide and on your own.
Why Choose a Tour With SmarTours?
SmarTours is a complete bargain package for budget minded travelers. If you are looking for an unbeatable value, don’t mind a large group and want tours focused on exotic destinations, then SmarTours is a perfect choice for you.
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Reviews Write a Review
Our trip to Peru and Galapagos was absolutely spectacular. Active Adventures didn't miss a detail and their primary objective was to make us happy and safe in everything we did. Our family of four - my husband and me, and our two college-age kids, loved all the activity which included hiking, biking, kayaking, scuba, and snorkeling. We started every day early in the morning and didn't end until well after 8:00 pm. The trip also included planes, trains and automobiles that was much like the movie of that name, but no reason to dwell on that. I felt like we got to be with the local culture and were immersed in our South American environment. Our group was also fantastic and will hopefully travel again with our new friends.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
AT
Amy T
December 2020
Our trip to Peru and Galapagos was absolutely spectacular. Active Adventures didn't miss a detail and their primary objective was to make us happy and safe in everything we did. Our family of four - my husband and me, and our two college-age kids, loved all the activity which included hiking, biking, kayaking, scuba, and snorkeling. We started every day early in the morning and didn't end until well after 8:00 pm. The trip also included planes, trains and automobiles that was much like the movie of that name, but no reason to dwell on that. I felt like we got to be with the local culture and were immersed in our South American environment. Our group was also fantastic and will hopefully travel again with our new friends.
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The Iguana trip really is 2 trips taken over a 2 week period of time just as advertised. The Peru portion definitely is activity level 4 compounded by the Altitude. I would definitely suggest that guests arrive a few days early in an attempt to acclimate to the altitude. We stayed in the Inka 1 hotel for the 2 days we had arrived in advance & highly recommend this hotel . They transported us from the airport & allowed us to check in @ 8 am to get some much needed shut eye after an overnight flight . Our tour actually went out of the Hotel San Agustin- very nice hotel but very noisy which made it difficult to sleep . The visit to Sacsayhuman was perfect for day 1 . Day 2 bike / Hike was simply awesome & the surprise lunch was fantastic. Our tour guide for the week in Peru was Arturo and he was everything anyone could ask for - attentive, articulate, knowledgeable and pleasant . The Day 3 hike had to be changed due to mudslides- thus an already long & Challenging hike was made even more difficult. ( 9 am- 6 pm at altitude). A rescue horse was available although the team did not use it . We had excellent weather and I don
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
KV
Katie V
December 2020
The Iguana trip really is 2 trips taken over a 2 week period of time just as advertised. The Peru portion definitely is activity level 4 compounded by the Altitude. I would definitely suggest that guests arrive a few days early in an attempt to acclimate to the altitude. We stayed in the Inka 1 hotel for the 2 days we had arrived in advance & highly recommend this hotel . They transported us from the airport & allowed us to check in @ 8 am to get some much needed shut eye after an overnight flight . Our tour actually went out of the Hotel San Agustin- very nice hotel but very noisy which made it difficult to sleep . The visit to Sacsayhuman was perfect for day 1 . Day 2 bike / Hike was simply awesome & the surprise lunch was fantastic. Our tour guide for the week in Peru was Arturo and he was everything anyone could ask for - attentive, articulate, knowledgeable and pleasant . The Day 3 hike had to be changed due to mudslides- thus an already long & Challenging hike was made even more difficult. ( 9 am- 6 pm at altitude). A rescue horse was available although the team did not use it . We had excellent weather and I don
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Although it was just a short trip down to Puno and Lake Titicaca, it was a great way to see the area and visit some of the islands.
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
KS
Khem S
December 2020
Although it was just a short trip down to Puno and Lake Titicaca, it was a great way to see the area and visit some of the islands.
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An unexpected tour hiccup pushed me onto the Chinchilla in a serendipitous turn of events that allowed me to discover the beauty and wonders of Lake Titicaca and the Uyuni Salt Flats. Whilst my original intent was to do the Inca Trail, the Chinchilla was not a lesser alternative, as all the usual bells and whistles of an Active trip were still in abundance, plus the bonus of the spectacular sights I saw instead. (I did manage to do an abbreviated Inca trail on my own, with Rainbow Mountain thrown in. Which led to this epiphany: the Jaguar and Chinchilla would make an incredible combination.) That said, I did find the Chinchilla less strenuous than the Jaguar (as described), and would have wanted a little more Active with the Adventure. In part, this was because the supplemental tour guides may not have gotten the memo, and failed to incorporate certain activities that were advertised (e.g., the hike to the highest point on Taquile Island didn't happen). There is a fair amount of travelling involved, shuttling from Cusco to Puno to Copacabana to La Paz, which could have been a factor, but I would have been perfectly happy to start earlier, as well, if it allowed for more activities.
Or in some instances, tweak the itinerary. I was underwhelmed by the visit to Isla de la Luna, as we spent considerably more time travelling on the boat, than on the island itself, and the ruins were not particularly interesting or impressive. I wonder if a visit to Isla del Sol would have been better, despite being overrun by tourists. Maybe from a cultural perspective?
And maybe a little less time in Copacabana. The climb up and the view from Calvary Hill redeemed this stop for me, but other than this, there wasn't much in terms of cultural interest. The scene by the lake shore was busy and frenetic, but the water was too cold for me to venture in.
Nevertheless, the trip was incredible. I was impressed and awed by the beauty of Peru and Bolivia. I tried to stay awake during the long drives because the scenery, from the mountains to Lake Titicaca, were almost always spectacular. And don't get me started on the Uyuni Salt Flats. Beyond words. And the Luna Salada Hotel was simply amazing. I couldn't believe we were staying there.
As with Active trips, the food is usually an attraction in itself, moreso in Peru. The restaurants in Cusco and Puno were stellar. But also dominated by tourists. I was always itching for the opportunity to try more authentic local cuisine in establishments that are popular with the residents. The smaller group size for this trip afforded us the opportunity to go off the tourist track on a number of occasions, which led to wonderful discoveries, as well. The chicharron I had in Puno was the best I had in South America, and the fast food chicken (Pollo Copacabana in La Paz) that our driver in Uyuni recommended was flavorful and delicious. Perhaps that's an option you may want to include in your future tours. Other travellers may not be as adventurous, but I would welcome alternatives if offered, even if it was on my own.
Finally, the guides. Wilson did an excellent job of shepherding our small group around, even if he was under the weather. He was quick to respond to our questions, as well as to accommodate our requests. He managed the logistics seamlessly, and provided guidance and direction, especially on what foods to try.
And a special shout out to Israel Villaroel and Juvenal of Sande Andino. They made the trip to the Uyuni Salt Flats truly spectacular. They knew the territory well, and brought us to the best spots for photographs or to admire the view, especially at sunset. Our day at the salt flats was hands down, the best of the whole trip.
All in all, another amazing trip.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
EA
Edgar A
December 2020
An unexpected tour hiccup pushed me onto the Chinchilla in a serendipitous turn of events that allowed me to discover the beauty and wonders of Lake Titicaca and the Uyuni Salt Flats. Whilst my original intent was to do the Inca Trail, the Chinchilla was not a lesser alternative, as all the usual bells and whistles of an Active trip were still in abundance, plus the bonus of the spectacular sights I saw instead. (I did manage to do an abbreviated Inca trail on my own, with Rainbow Mountain thrown in. Which led to this epiphany: the Jaguar and Chinchilla would make an incredible combination.) That said, I did find the Chinchilla less strenuous than the Jaguar (as described), and would have wanted a little more Active with the Adventure. In part, this was because the supplemental tour guides may not have gotten the memo, and failed to incorporate certain activities that were advertised (e.g., the hike to the highest point on Taquile Island didn't happen). There is a fair amount of travelling involved, shuttling from Cusco to Puno to Copacabana to La Paz, which could have been a factor, but I would have been perfectly happy to start earlier, as well, if it allowed for more activities.
Or in some instances, tweak the itinerary. I was underwhelmed by the visit to Isla de la Luna, as we spent considerably more time travelling on the boat, than on the island itself, and the ruins were not particularly interesting or impressive. I wonder if a visit to Isla del Sol would have been better, despite being overrun by tourists. Maybe from a cultural perspective?
And maybe a little less time in Copacabana. The climb up and the view from Calvary Hill redeemed this stop for me, but other than this, there wasn't much in terms of cultural interest. The scene by the lake shore was busy and frenetic, but the water was too cold for me to venture in.
Nevertheless, the trip was incredible. I was impressed and awed by the beauty of Peru and Bolivia. I tried to stay awake during the long drives because the scenery, from the mountains to Lake Titicaca, were almost always spectacular. And don't get me started on the Uyuni Salt Flats. Beyond words. And the Luna Salada Hotel was simply amazing. I couldn't believe we were staying there.
As with Active trips, the food is usually an attraction in itself, moreso in Peru. The restaurants in Cusco and Puno were stellar. But also dominated by tourists. I was always itching for the opportunity to try more authentic local cuisine in establishments that are popular with the residents. The smaller group size for this trip afforded us the opportunity to go off the tourist track on a number of occasions, which led to wonderful discoveries, as well. The chicharron I had in Puno was the best I had in South America, and the fast food chicken (Pollo Copacabana in La Paz) that our driver in Uyuni recommended was flavorful and delicious. Perhaps that's an option you may want to include in your future tours. Other travellers may not be as adventurous, but I would welcome alternatives if offered, even if it was on my own.
Finally, the guides. Wilson did an excellent job of shepherding our small group around, even if he was under the weather. He was quick to respond to our questions, as well as to accommodate our requests. He managed the logistics seamlessly, and provided guidance and direction, especially on what foods to try.
And a special shout out to Israel Villaroel and Juvenal of Sande Andino. They made the trip to the Uyuni Salt Flats truly spectacular. They knew the territory well, and brought us to the best spots for photographs or to admire the view, especially at sunset. Our day at the salt flats was hands down, the best of the whole trip.
All in all, another amazing trip.
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Or in some instances, tweak the itinerary. I was underwhelmed by the visit to Isla de la Luna, as we spent considerably more time travelling on the boat, than on the island itself, and the ruins were not particularly interesting or impressive. I wonder if a visit to Isla del Sol would have been better, despite being overrun by tourists. Maybe from a cultural perspective?
And maybe a little less time in Copacabana. The climb up and the view from Calvary Hill redeemed this stop for me, but other than this, there wasn't much in terms of cultural interest. The scene by the lake shore was busy and frenetic, but the water was too cold for me to venture in.
Nevertheless, the trip was incredible. I was impressed and awed by the beauty of Peru and Bolivia. I tried to stay awake during the long drives because the scenery, from the mountains to Lake Titicaca, were almost always spectacular. And don't get me started on the Uyuni Salt Flats. Beyond words. And the Luna Salada Hotel was simply amazing. I couldn't believe we were staying there.
As with Active trips, the food is usually an attraction in itself, moreso in Peru. The restaurants in Cusco and Puno were stellar. But also dominated by tourists. I was always itching for the opportunity to try more authentic local cuisine in establishments that are popular with the residents. The smaller group size for this trip afforded us the opportunity to go off the tourist track on a number of occasions, which led to wonderful discoveries, as well. The chicharron I had in Puno was the best I had in South America, and the fast food chicken (Pollo Copacabana in La Paz) that our driver in Uyuni recommended was flavorful and delicious. Perhaps that's an option you may want to include in your future tours. Other travellers may not be as adventurous, but I would welcome alternatives if offered, even if it was on my own.
Finally, the guides. Wilson did an excellent job of shepherding our small group around, even if he was under the weather. He was quick to respond to our questions, as well as to accommodate our requests. He managed the logistics seamlessly, and provided guidance and direction, especially on what foods to try.
And a special shout out to Israel Villaroel and Juvenal of Sande Andino. They made the trip to the Uyuni Salt Flats truly spectacular. They knew the territory well, and brought us to the best spots for photographs or to admire the view, especially at sunset. Our day at the salt flats was hands down, the best of the whole trip.
All in all, another amazing trip.
We had a fun, exciting, wonderful trip of a lifetime! We did not want to be driven around on a bus with old people, and this sure was nothing like that! It also was manageable for those of us who wanted to be outdoors and active, but are not military buff. Erick was very accommodating about adjusting the trip activities to fit our abilities, and he was fast thinking, capable and resourceful about getting help when I got in trouble with altitude sickness and its effects. He and Pablo were both enthusiastic, fun and engaging guides. They both took us to a wonderful variety of great restaurants with fabulous food throughout the trip.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
AL
Amy L
December 2020
We had a fun, exciting, wonderful trip of a lifetime! We did not want to be driven around on a bus with old people, and this sure was nothing like that! It also was manageable for those of us who wanted to be outdoors and active, but are not military buff. Erick was very accommodating about adjusting the trip activities to fit our abilities, and he was fast thinking, capable and resourceful about getting help when I got in trouble with altitude sickness and its effects. He and Pablo were both enthusiastic, fun and engaging guides. They both took us to a wonderful variety of great restaurants with fabulous food throughout the trip.
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This trip was exactly what we hoped for - packed with gorgeous views, amazing history, beautiful handcrafts and lots of time being out in the beautiful landscapes. Our time in the Galapagos was equally magnificent - we swam with turtles and sharks, saw many unique birds and enjoyed the unique culture on 3 separate islands. The guide were incredibly knowledgeable and skilled at managing the group. We were thrilled with this second trip with Active after a wonderful time in New Zealand last year.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
AW
Audrey W
December 2020
This trip was exactly what we hoped for - packed with gorgeous views, amazing history, beautiful handcrafts and lots of time being out in the beautiful landscapes. Our time in the Galapagos was equally magnificent - we swam with turtles and sharks, saw many unique birds and enjoyed the unique culture on 3 separate islands. The guide were incredibly knowledgeable and skilled at managing the group. We were thrilled with this second trip with Active after a wonderful time in New Zealand last year.
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