The best tour operators in the world: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

The best tour operators in the world 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

It’s been a challenging few years for tour operators but the names below are in it for the long haul (as well as the short and medium), honing itineraries and managing expectations. So who prepared your travel documents this year? Red Savannah and Black Tomato scored highest for first-hand knowledge, and Exodus Adventure Travels and Abercrombie & Kent for on-the-ground support. But when it came to all-round endeavour, Scott Dunn and The Turquoise Holiday Company were leaders of the pack. Both report a surge of interest in Asia, as well as multi-generational travel, solo adventures to Namibia, Bhutan and Mexico, and authentic experiences such as outback stations in Australia and bear lodges in Canada.

These are the best tour operators in the world, according to the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards . The scores below are percentages representing overall average levels of satisfaction.

The Turquoise Holiday Company

The best general tour operators in the world 2023

15. Cox & Kings. Score 88.00

14. Hayes & Jarvis. Score 89.44

13. Carrier. Score 90.73

12. Simpson Travel. Score 91.48

11. Kuoni. Score 92.82

10. Mr & Mrs Smith. Score 93.29

9. Kensington Tours. Score 94.14

8. Audley Travel. Score 94.77

7. Original Travel. Score 95.44

6. Cazenove + Loyd. Score 95.92

5. The Ultimate Travel Company. Score 96.75

4. Abercrombie & Kent. Score 97.12

3. Elegant Resorts. Score 97.39

2. Red Savannah. Score 97.96

  • The Turquoise Holiday Company. Score 98.42

Scott Dunn

The best travel specialists in the world 2023

15. Wild Frontiers (including Journeys Within). Score 94.81

14. Martin Randall Travel. Score 95.17

13. Intrepid Travel. Score 95.40

12. Wilderness. Score 96.54.

11. Inntravel. Score 96.88

10. Oxford Ski Company. Score 97.15

9. Kirker Holidays. Score 97.47

8. andBeyond. Score 97.61

7. Ampersand Travel. Score 97.65.

6. InsideJapan Tours. Score 97.79

5. Steppes Travel. Score 97.88

4. Black Tomato. Score 98.03

3. Exodus Adventure Travels. Score 98.15

2. Healing Holidays. Score 98.35

  • Scott Dunn. Score 98.70
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MT Sobek named Best Adventure Travel Company

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Best Adventure Travel Company (2022) May 20, 2022

Whether you’re looking for an individualized journey, eco-friendly group tour or multi-generational trip, these 10 adventure travel companies can help you. 

Geographic Expeditions

No. 10: Geographic Expeditions - San Francisco, California

GeoEx takes travelers “to the ends of the Earth” on luxury small group tours and custom journeys. Itineraries are grouped by interest, from family, solo travel and special occasions to philanthropy, active or trailblazing.

Bindlestiff Tours

No. 9: Bindlestiff Tours - Paradise, Nevada

Bindlestiff Tours specializes in small group adventures with a focus on the American Southwest. Guests enjoy fully customized touring vehicles with enlarged viewing windows, free wifi and most campsites and the myriad benefits of insider expertise, like the best spots to photograph a sunset or favorite local restaurants.

XGRiD Campers

No. 8: XGRiD Campers - Las Vegas, Nevada

Travel Expert Chez Chesak tells us about XGRid Campers, “Very cool company that trains people on and then rents overlanding campers for a true backcountry experience.” Campers are available to haul any gear you might need, including kayaks, canoes, and bikes. All trailers are equipped with on-board water and solar power, so standard camping hookups are not required! Units are also suitable for dirt roads and trails, with independent suspension and all-terrain tires, making them much more versatile than traditional travel trailers. Find remote locations others never even know exist!

Journeys International

No. 7: Journeys International - Ann Arbor, Michigan

Journeys International builds private and small group trips based on a variety of worldwide destinations and landscapes, centering each adventure on certain travel goals the individual or group desires to achieve. Each party is assigned an adventure specialist who makes personalized choices of locations and activities to include in the experience. All journeys are designed to give every person involved a special and unique lifetime memory.

Nantahala Outdoor Center

No. 6: Nantahala Outdoor Center - Bryson City, North Carolina

Nantahala Outdoor Center is one of the southeast United States' most well-known destinations for outdoor lovers. They offer a variety of experiences, including rafting and kayaking, ziplining, paddleboarding, biking and hiking. NOC will also package several activities into one exciting adventure.

Destination Hike

No. 5: Destination Hike - Washington, D.C

Destination Hike’s motto is, “Hiking is for everyone!” They believe hiking strengthens your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, and this community of hikers (open to all levels) meets monthly to hike in various places across the United States. Scheduled events include sunset hikes, hiking and yoga, hiking for stargazing, and a 100-Mile Wilderness hiking expedition in Maine.

Urban Events Global

No. 4: Urban Events Global - Houston, Texas

Kevin Knight founded Urban Events Global as a travel company for African American adventure seekers looking to explore with like-minded travelers. The company hosts regular camping weekends, as well as group tours to destinations like Cape Town, Barbados, Dubai and Aruba.

Austin Adventures

No. 3: Austin Adventures - Billings, Montana

Austin Adventures seeks to bring its “WOW Factor” to every trip, whether through spectacular scenery and well-planned itineraries or thoughtful touches, like freshly prepared trailside treats at the end of a hike. Austin Adventures leads multi-sport and active trips to more than 30 countries on all seven continents.

Abundant Life Adventures

No. 2: Abundant Life Adventure Club - Nashville, Tennessee

Abundant Life Adventures hosts guided outdoor adventure tours and monthly meet-ups near Nashville to inspire wellness and abundant living. Members hike, bike, kayak, and more. Their "epic adventures" are ideal for Black people with "little to no outdoor experience looking to challenge themselves to try something outside their comfort zone and make new friends."

MT Sobek

No. 1: MT Sobek - Emeryville, California

MT Sobek have been leaders in the adventure travel industry for more than half a century. Today, travelers can choose from some 200 journeys designed to inspire and exhilarate, with interest categories like Multi-Adventure, Family Adventure, Wildlife & Safari, Adventure Cruising, Wellness, Hiking & Trekking, Cultural Discovery, and Rafting and Kayaking.    

A panel of experts partnered with 10Best editors to pick the initial nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote.

Congratulations to all these winning adventure travel companies!

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chez chesak.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Chez Chesak

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Kyle McCarthy

Lauren Gay is the creator of Misadventures of the Read More

Lauren Gay is the creator of Misadventures of the Outdoorsy Diva Blog, host/producer of the Outdoorsy Diva Podcast, published photographer, speaker and CEO of Lauren R. Gay Consulting where she offers professional consulting services for blogs and podcasts, courses, as well as curated group adventure trips. She is a travel writer and social media influencer who is passionate about inspiring and empowering black women to step out of their comfort zones for new experiences in travel and adventure and embracing nature as therapy. Lauren is also a dedicated long time advocate for racial diversity and inclusion in outdoor recreation and adventure travel.

Lauren Gay

10Best Editors

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2023 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

Images of nature around the mountains and lakes of Slovenia as seen on the Exodus Travels' Lakes and Mountains of Slovenia walking tour

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 12-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

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Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

Groups of hikers walking and camping around the mountains of Kilimanjaro with World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

People visiting famous sites around China with the G Adventures' China Express group travel tour

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $559 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $800.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

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Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

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When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Shots from around Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and accommodations provided by Intrepid Travel's Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 7 million dollars to over 130 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-29 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters on Intrepid Travel’s Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip which includes time with the mountain gorillas of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. 

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

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Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Shots of the interior and exterior of the Ocean Adventurer ship and shots of nature around Antarctica as seen on the Chimu Adventures' Antarctica Fly Cruise

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination.

For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina). Can’t stay long? Book one of Chimu Adventures’ scenic flights to Antarctica , which fly as far as the south pole in one spectacular 16-hour day.

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $5,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

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Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Collage of images from the For the Love of Travel Lapland Tour

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to nearby destinations like Mexico or Denver—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Collage of shots from DuVine's Holland Bike Tour

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Collage of images from the different cities involved in the Abercrombie & Kent Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

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Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

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Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

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A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

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Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

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Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

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The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

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The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

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The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

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Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

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This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

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Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

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Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

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Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

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The Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

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KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

best tour companies 2022

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Girl with Peaches by Alexander Serov

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

best tour companies 2022

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This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka, photo by Detonart at Pixabay

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Customer

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Novodevichy Convent, Moscow

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Kremlin in the times of Ivan III

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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Express to Russia

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best tour companies 2022

15 Best Tour Companies of 2024

Jakob Thygerson

  • Last Modified: November 7, 2023

Best Tour Companies

TravelFreak is reader supported. Your engagement on this site allows us to bring you this content for free. Because this website contains affiliate links, if you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This has absolutely no effect on our recommendations or evaluations. Thank you for supporting our mission!

Guided tours can be a great way to experience a new destination, but you want to make sure you get the best experience possible. How can you find the best tour companies to guide your adventure?

Whether you’re looking for group trips, self-guided tours, river cruises, tours for solo travelers, or overseas adventure travel, you want to find a tour operator that can deliver a seamless, enjoyable, and authentic experience, all without zeroing out your bank account.

Here are the top 15 tour companies out there today. I’ll walk you through what each excels at and how to pick the best one for you.

  • Best Tour Company Overall: Intrepid Travel
  • Best Small Group Tour Company: G Adventures
  • Best for Day Tours: Get Your Guide
  • Best Tour Company for Solo Travelers: Go Ahead Tours
  • Best Tour Company for Families: Adventures by Disney
  • Best Tour Company for Seniors: Trafalgar
  • Best Tour Company for Europe: Tauck
  • Best Tour Company for Italy: Insight Vacations
  • Best Tour Company for Ireland and Scotland: CIE Tours
  • Best Iceland Tour Company: Nicetravel Iceland
  • Best Tour Company for Spain and Portugal: Cosmos
  • Best Egypt Tour Company: Exodus
  • Best Asia Tour Company: Klook
  • Best Tour Company for Israel: Click Tours
  • Best Tour Company for Greece: Epos Travel Tours

1. Intrepid Travel : Best Tour Company Overall

Interpid Travel

When you imagine travel tours, you may picture massive group tours and a bus packed with 50 noisy, gawking tourists.

That’s not what you get with Intrepid Travel . This company specializes in adventurous and immersive small group tours with an average of 10 people.

Operating on all seven continents, Intrepid offers a huge range of trip types to fit any traveler. You can choose biking tours across New Zealand, river cruises in Europe, trekking in the Himalayas, or wildlife safaris in the Serengeti. There are options for all-female adventures, family expeditions, active trips for adventure travelers, or trips catering specifically to 18-29 year olds.

If you don’t want to spend the trip of a lifetime sitting on your butt looking out a bus window, Intrepid Travel is for you. Their group trips are designed to fully immerse you in the culture and beauty of a new place. Here are two examples of what you’ll get from Intrepid Travel:

With the Alaska: Hike, Bike, & Kayak tour, you are led by an expert guide on a range of active adventures through some of Alaska’s best scenery and national parks. You’ll go sea kayaking, cycle along the rugged Alaskan coast, and hike through Denali National Park.

If you’re looking for more of a cultural experience, the Premium Sri Lanka tour is an incredible journey through the culture, history, food, and wildlife of this island. You’ll explore ancient temples, eat incredible food with locals, and search for leopards in the country’s wildlife preserves.

One last perk: Intrepid Travel is a Certified B-Corp, meaning they are dedicated to doing good in the world. They donate to worldwide relief causes and offset the carbon footprint of every trip they operate.

2. G Adventures : Best Small Group Tour Company

G Adventures

If you’re looking for small group tours, G Adventures is one of the best in the category. Just like with Intrepid, their tour groups average 10 people, so, with G Adventures, you won’t have to deal with being part of a massive hoard of tourists.

So what sets G Adventures apart? Unlike many tour operators, they focus on helping you get exactly the experience you’re looking for instead of packing every day with a rigid schedule. Every trip offers a wide range of optional activities that you can pick and choose from to personalize your experience. Plus, you can opt for more free time to explore or hang out on your own.

I also love that G Adventures hires all local guides. They put a lot of emphasis on their guides, even calling them CEOs (chief experience officers). That means you get local, insider expertise on your trip. Your tour director will speak the local language, know the best spots to eat, and fully understand the culture.

If you’re looking for big luxurious hotels and resorts, G Adventures probably isn’t for you. Instead of going to the big chain hotels, G Adventures uses locally owned and operated lodgings.

This has two benefits. First, you get a much more authentic local experience. Big hotel chains don’t have the same charm and character as a true local hotel. Second, your money will go toward benefiting the local economy rather than some giant corporation. That’s a big win for G Adventures in my book.

3. Get Your Guide : Best for Day Tours

Get Your Guide

You may not need or want a fully guided multi-day group tour, But sometimes it’s nice to have the guidance of a local expert for a truly unique experience that you couldn’t get otherwise. Choosing day tours is a great way to get the benefits of guided group tours without being stuck with a tour group for your entire trip.

Get Your Guide is my favorite resource for finding amazing day tours, entry tickets, and other travel experiences. It’s perfect for more independent travelers who can manage the details of their own trip, but are looking for shorter guided tours.

How does it work? Get Your Guide is essentially an online marketplace where you can search for and reserve tours, museum passes, adventure activities, and more. 

For example, let’s say you’re planning a trip to Sweden. On Get Your Guide, you could book a dog sled adventure to see the northern lights, a day cruise on an icebreaker ship, a “ghost-walk” historical tour of Old Stockholm, and a guided ice climbing excursion.

I’m already getting excited about that trip.

4. Go Ahead Tours : Best Tour Company for Solo Travelers

Go Ahead Tours

Solo travel can be a bit intimidating, especially if you don’t have a lot of travel experience. I’ve found that group tours can be a great way to ease some of the stress and make it easier to enjoy your trip as a solo traveler.

Go Ahead Tours is one of the best tour companies that specializes in trips for solo travelers. With their solo trips, you always get a private room at no extra cost, and the other travelers in your tour group will also be solo—so you don’t end up as the awkward 17th wheel in someone else’s family vacation. As a solo traveler with Go Ahead Tours, you get all the benefits and security of a group trip, and you’ll meet other amazing people traveling the world on their own.

Go Ahead Tours focuses on small group itineraries in tour destinations around the globe, from popular destinations to locations off the beaten path. Want a food-centric trip across Italy? Check. Want to visit South America and hike to Machu Picchu? Check. How about a wildlife safari in Kenya? Yep, they’ve got that. Go Ahead Tours offers the best group tours for solo travelers, and you may even make some new friends on the way.

5. Adventures by Disney : Best Tour Company for Families

Adventures By Disney

Family travel can seem complicated, especially if you have younger kids. Group tours can help simplify planning the dream trip, but tour operators often plan trips focused on adults, so younger travelers may get bored quickly.

Adventures by Disney is one of the few group travel companies that specialize in family-oriented trips and tours, from South America to Scandinavia. Disney Vacations designs their group trips to have something for everyone: wine tastings for the adults, adventure scavenger hunts for the kids, and sights and experiences that will engage your entire family.

Disney Adventures trips are a bit pricier than many other group travel companies, so not all families will be able to afford them. However, if you can make it work with your budget, your family will get an amazing experience that you just won’t find from more mainstream travel.

6. Trafalgar : Best Tour Company for Seniors

Trafalgar

Trafalgar is one of the biggest (and best) group travel companies in the world. They offer hundreds of international trips to popular destinations around the globe.

Trafalgar’s guided tours are great for travelers of all age groups, but they cater particularly to senior travelers. The majority of Trafalgar guests are over 50. It’s also great for family tours to get grandparents and grandkids spending quality time together.

If you’re looking for highly active itineraries with adventure activities packed in, Trafalgar may not be the best for you. They focus more on cultural immersion, history, architecture, and local cuisine. Trafalgar is a great choice if you want to take a deep dive into the essence of your destination.

You can count on having a tour leader who is an expert in the local culture and history, and you will come home with tons of new knowledge.

Trafalgar focuses primarily on land-based tours, but they also offer a range of cruise vacations if you want to travel by sea.

Hotel stays, meals, transportation to/from the airport, and all the logistics are all arranged for you. You can even add on flights, extra hotel nights, and travel insurance so you don’t have to worry about any additional complications for your trip.

7. Tauck : Best Tour Company for Europe

Tauck

Tauck is another big name in group tours that operates on all seven continents. While they have guided tours all around the globe, Tauck is an especially good choice if you’re looking for a group tour in Europe.

It’s easy to go to European cities, see the major tourist sites, and head home without really diving deep into the culture and spirit of the place. My favorite thing about Tauck is that their European tours are designed to give you more than just the standard tourist experience. Their Yellow Roads of Europe tours take you off the beaten path for a truly unique European experience.

Every Tauck tour pairs you with handpicked expert local guides who will help fully immerse you in the experience.

Tauck offers both river cruises and land-based group tours. If you want a unique European experience, imagine cruising through Western Europe along the Seine.

8. Insight Vacations : Best Tour Company for Italy

Insight Vacations

Almost every traveler dreams of a bucket list trip to Italy. What’s not to love? Amazing food, amazing sights, amazing culture, Italy has it all.

If you’re looking for the best guided tours in Italy, I highly recommend Insight Vacations . Insight offers tours all over the world, but their Italy tours are especially good. Whether you want to see the major sights, learn to live like a local, or sample the best food from around the country (or all of the above!) they’ve got tours for you.

As an example, you could choose their Best of Italy Tour for your next trip. This 11-day tour includes stays in Rome, Florence, Venice, and more. You’ll learn from local artisans, eat farm-to-table meals on the foothills of Mount Vesuvius, and get a VIP tour of the Vatican (including areas normally off-limits to visitors).

Insight’s tours are all led by local tour guides who speak the language and have in-depth knowledge of the culture and history of each site you visit.

If you’re traveling with a group of 10 or more people, Insight Vacations can also put together custom itineraries specifically for your group.

9. CIE Tours : Best Tour Company for Ireland and Scotland

CIE Tours

If you’re into history, stunning scenery, charming towns, or good times at the pub, you would probably love touring Ireland and Scotland. CIE Tours is technically based in the US, but it’s partially owned and operated by the Irish government. It specializes in travel to Ireland, Scotland, and a few other European countries.

This dialed-in focus means that there are no better guided tours for Ireland and Scotland. I highly recommend their Taste of Scotland and Ireland Tour . In 11 days, you’ll experience sightseeing in Glasgow and Dublin, a day cruise on Loch Ness, carriage rides through the Irish countryside, and a feast in a historic castle.

Their tours have a great balance of exciting sightseeing and activities with enough downtime to relax or do plenty of exploring on your own. It’s a great way to get all the benefits of group travel without feeling like you have no control over your schedule.

If you want more freedom, CIE also offers independent adventures. They will build an itinerary for you and book your lodgings, admission tickets to attractions, and rental car (or you can opt for a private driver). You can choose from their pre-packaged itineraries, or build your own custom trip.

I also appreciate that CIE Tours has fairly affordable rates that include all admission tickets and most of your meals. Plus, they often offer discounts on airfare!

10. Nicetravel Iceland : Best Iceland Tour Company

NiceTravel

Maybe you’ve always been intrigued by Iceland’s wild, untamed beauty (I know I have). If you want to experience this first hand, Nicetravel Iceland is one of the best group travel companies in this amazing country.

Nicetravel Iceland by three local Icelandic families, so they have a lot of local expertise. They offer trips ranging from 8 hours to over a week and have itineraries to suit any type of traveler, whether you want to relax in natural hot spring pools or hike along the glaciers and coastlines.

They focus on small group tours, and you’ll never have more than 19 people in your group. Most of their tours start from the capital, Reykjavik, and will drive you to various destinations in Mercedes Sprinter Vans. Way better than the huge tour buses many other companies use.

In addition to standard tours for sightseeing, they also have a range of tour options for more adventurous travelers. You’re in the right place if you want to explore caves, hike on glaciers, or raft down raging rivers.

11. Cosmos : Best Tour Company for Spain and Portugal

Cosmos

For a tour operator on the Iberian Peninsula, Cosmos is one of the best choices, especially if you don’t want to spend an arm and a leg. Cosmos has been guiding group travel for nearly a century, and they employ expert local guides to help you get the most from your trip.

The Cosmos Best of Spain and Portugal Tour is an incredible 13-day group travel itinerary. You will stay in 7 amazing cities across the two countries and visit a wide range of historical sites.

Cosmos is also a good choice for responsible travel, as they have several initiatives to support local communities and planet-focused nonprofits like the African Wildlife Foundation, The Ocean Cleanup, and Trees4Travel. I appreciate companies that are taking steps toward sustainable travel.

12. Exodus : Best Egypt Tour Company

Exodus Adventure Travels

It’s hard to visit any travel website without seeing a picture of the Great Pyramids. Egypt has captivated the minds of explorers and travelers for centuries, and it is worth having on your bucket list.

If you want a guided tour of Egypt, I highly recommend Exodus Travels . With destinations on all seven continents, Exodus Travels is one of the most popular group travel companies for adventurous travelers, and their Egyptian tours are particularly good.

With 9 different guided tours in Egypt, you can find the perfect itinerary for your trip. Exodus Travels is a true expert in the industry and hires incredible guides for their group travel excursions.

Plus, Exodus Travels also offers trips that are perfect for family travel.

13. Klook : Best Asia Tour Company

Klook Logo

Whether you want to experience the hustle and bustle of downtown Tokyo or an adventurous trek to Everest Base Camp, Klook is one of the best group travel companies for Asia.

Klook is more than just a tour operator. It is a marketplace for everything travel, from airline tickets to hotels to tickets to museums, theme parks, and more. Klook offers trips for small groups or individual travelers all around the globe, but they are based in Asia, and that’s where they focus.

Klooks South Korea Tour will take you to Nami Island, through beautiful gardens, and into a centuries-old palace in Seoul.

14. Click Tours : Best Tour Company for Israel

Click Tours

Click Tours specializes in group travel in Europe and the Middle East, and Israel is by far their most popular tour destination. In Israel, Click Tours will offer trips ranging from 3-day highlight tours to 18-day deep-dive cultural experiences.

They focus on small group travel, and your tour group will have 15-24 guests. That means you get more personal attention and a more authentic experience of the country.

A tour of Israel with Click Tours will focus on historical and archeological sites. You’ll visit temples and ruins that are thousands of years old as well as dive into the amazing food and rich culture of Israel.

15. Epos Travel Tours : Best Tour Company for Greece

Epos Travel

If you’re looking for a group travel trip to Greece, Epos Travel Tours is a local company based in Tripolis that offers tours across the country.

Since Epos Travel Tours specializes only in Greece, you can expect catered trips and insider knowledge. They are truly the experts in travel to Greece, and their trip itineraries are designed to help you get the most from your trip, whether you want to visit historical sites or delve into amazing food and culture.

If you’re into history and architecture, their tour of Ancient Corinth is hard to beat!

Best Tour Companies FAQ

Which is the best tour company in the world.

In my experience, Intrepid Travel is the best tour operator. They have amazing small-group tours.

What are the top travel companies?

The top travel companies for tours include Intrepid Travel , G Adventures , and Trafalgar .

Is Globus or Trafalgar better?

Trafalgar is usually the better choice. They offer amazing all-inclusive tours around the world.

Are tour companies worth it?

Group travel can be worth it if you want the stress and planning taken out of your trip.

Who is the biggest tour company?

Disney is the biggest tour company by revenue.

How do you know if a tour company is legit?

It is a good idea to look for reviews of a tour company on TripAdvisor.

Jakob Thygerson

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The 20 Best Italy Tours

See Italy's top tourist attractions and stunning cities on these guided excursions.

best tour companies 2022

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Visitors can discover charming neighborhoods, enjoy delicious food and see top sights on Italy's best tours.

There's so much to see and do in Italy that it can feel a bit overwhelming to plan a trip that makes the most of the country's fabled history, art, architecture and cuisine – not to mention its 55-plus UNESCO World Heritage sites. Guided tours are an efficient, hassle-free way to explore the country's top attractions and cities. These Italy tours – considered the best by travelers and experts alike – vary by region, focus and method of transportation, but they all have one thing in common: highly motivated and informed guides ready to help you better appreciate your time in this beautiful European country.

The Roman Food Tour – Prati by Sunset – Rome Food Tour

Price: Adults from 135 euros (about $148); kids from 80 euros (about $88) Duration: 4 hours

Enjoy Italian cuisine via this small group walking tour of five food-centric places in Rome 's Prati neighborhood near Vatican City . Stops include a cafe, a pizzeria and a gourmet food shop, and food samples typically include cheese, truffles, cured meat, pasta, tiramisu and pizza as well as wine. Food and wine enthusiasts regularly report enjoying learning about Roman culinary arts from the passionate, well-informed guides on this tour.

Outings last about four hours and are available daily all year long starting at 4:30, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. with additional 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. start times from May through October. Prices start at 135 euros (about $148) for adults, 89 euros (about $98) for teenagers 13 to 17 and 80 euros (about $88) for children 5 to 12. Prices cover all food and beverage samples, which may exceed 20 in total. The Roman Food Tour offers a variety of other foodie outings to different areas around the city, including one to the Trionfale neighborhood.

View & Book Tickets:  Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3

City Wonders – Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Tour

Price: Adults from $42; kids from $37 Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Visit some of the most famous attractions in Rome on this 2- to 3-hour walking tour. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, which are filled with historic art pieces. Tour-takers rave about the spectacular art and architecture and appreciate the insightful guides.

Tours depart multiple times a day Monday through Saturday, typically between around 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at $42 for adults and around $37 for children ages 6 to 18 (kids 5 and younger tour for free), but prices may vary by day and time. Tickets cover all entrance fees. Groups are limited to 20 participants. Note: Modest attire may be required to enter some sites. City Wonders operates several other tours around Rome as well as in other Italian cities like Milan .

View & Book Tickets:  Viator | GetYourGuide

LivItaly Tours – Colosseum Underground Tour with Arena, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum

Price: Adults from 139 euros (about $152); kids from 124 euros (about $135) Duration: 3 hours

Explore renowned sites of ancient Rome on this three-hour walk. Tours start at the Colosseum and visit areas of the amphitheater, such as underground cages and dungeons, that relatively few people get to see due to space and ticketing limitations. Other highlights include the Palatine Hill, one of Rome's seven hills where politicians of the Roman Empire once lived and where the ruins of numerous buildings from that era remain, and the Forum , once the center of social and political activity in ancient Rome. Reviewers frequently say the guides are not only informative, but also humorous and make learning about Roman history fun.

Tours, which are limited to six participants, are offered daily at a variety of times, typically between 9:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at 139 euros (about $152) for adults, 129 euros (about $141) for teenagers ages 13 to 17 and 124 euros (about $135) for kids ages 3 to 12. Students also receive a slight discount. LivItaly runs multiple tours in Rome, including one that visits some of the city's top attractions .

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

Walkabout Florence Tours – The Best of Tuscany in One Day Trip from Florence

Price: Adults from 83 euros (about $91); kids from 70 euros (about $77) Duration: 12 hours

Take a day to experience Tuscany and its UNESCO World Heritage sites on this trip via air-conditioned coach. Highlights include a guided walking tour in the medieval town of Siena , a visit to San Gimignano and a trip through the countryside to Pisa. Optional upgrades include lunch and wine-tasting at a Chianti vineyard and skip-the-line entry to Pisa's famous Leaning Tower . While trip-takers consistently describe the guides as knowledgeable and personable, they also appreciate having time to explore each destination on their own.

Buses depart from Florence 's Piazza Stazione daily at 8 a.m. and return approximately 12 hours later. Prices start at 83 euros (about $91) for adults and 70 euros (about $77) for kids ages 8 to 17, not including lunch. The full tour, including lunch at the winery and access to the tower, costs approximately 113 euros (around $123) for adults and 100 euros (approximately $109) for kids. Note: While there's no charge for children younger than 8 to take the tour, they cannot climb the tower.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Best Italy Tours

Walks of Italy – Legendary Venice: St. Mark's Basilica with Terraces & Doge's Palace

Price: Adults from $113; kids from $107 Duration: 3 hours

This tour encompasses some of the most significant spots in Venice : St. Mark's Square , St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace . Both the church and the palace are art-filled buildings with eventful histories. (The palace, for instance, was more than a site of political administration; it also contains prisons and torture chambers.) Guides recount the colorful backstories, which tour-takers invariably find informative and entertaining.

Three-hour walking tours beginning in the square happen daily at 2 p.m. and every day except Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Earlier departures (at 8 a.m.) may also be available on select days. Tickets start around $113 for adults and $107 for children 2 to 14, though you may find some higher or lower prices depending on the date and time. (There's no charge for infants.) The visit to the basilica includes access to a balcony affording views of the square and nearby lagoon. Another bonus? Taking this tour enables you to bypass the lines to enter the palace and the basilica.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Withlocals – The 10 Tastings of Venice

Price: From 85 euros (about $93) per person for a group of six Duration: 3 hours

As its name indicates, this tour features 10 tastings of typical Venetian food and drinks. It's essentially a private, customizable, small-group walking tour that can be tailored to participants' interests. Even so, samples usually include local favorites like spritz (a wine-based cocktail) and gelato. Tour-takers tend to enjoy both the visits to multiple local eateries and the amusing guides' insightful commentary.

Three-hour tours depart from Venice's Campo Manin daily with multiple start times; the earliest is typically 10 a.m. and the latest 6 p.m. Prices vary by group size and start at approximately 252 euros (about $275) for one person (the minimum) and descend to about 85 euros (about $93) per person for groups of six (the maximum). Groups larger than six should contact the tour company directly to schedule.

Blue Star Boat Tours – Amalfi Coast Group Tour

Price: From $88 Duration: 7 hours

Another option for seeing the beaches and caves of the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast is from the water. Sights seen on this daylong expedition typically include the picturesque geological features of Fiordo di Furore beach; Grotta della Pandora, a cave accessible only from the sea; and the Emerald Grotto, named for the color of the light that fills the cave. The approximately seven-hour tour, which departs from Positano, also includes an hour or two of free time to explore the town of Amalfi. Travelers typically appreciate the professional, personable staff and the opportunities to swim in such a scenic setting.

Tickets cost approximately $88 per person. There is a maximum of 12 people per group. Note: There's an additional fee to enter the Emerald Grotto. Private boat tours and sunset cruises are also available.

You Know! – Sorrento Coast and Capri Boat Tour from Sorrento

Price: Adults from 104 euros (about $114); kids from 84 euros (about $92) Duration: 9 hours

See the sights along the Sorrento coast, including a waterfall, a lighthouse and Roman ruins, on this boat ride. The tour also features a three- to five-hour stop on Capri during which travelers can explore the small island's famed Piazzetta, as well as churches and a medieval district. There's also time for swimming and snorkeling. Tour-takers consistently find the scenery beautiful and the guides professional and friendly.

The approximately nine-hour trips happen daily starting at 9:45 a.m. Prices vary by season, but typically start at around 104 euros (about $114) for participants 10 and older and 84 euros (about $92) for kids ages 3 to 9. (There's no cost for infants to join the trip.) Trips are capped at 12 to 14 people. Prices include transportation between Sorrento and the port as well as snacks and beverages on the boat. Fees don't cover lunch on Capri, snorkeling equipment or entrance fees to attractions. The company also offers boat tours to Capri that depart from Amalfi.

Best Italy Tours

World Tours Italy – Pompeii and Amalfi Coast (with Lunch)

Price: From 128 euros (about $140) Duration: 8 hours

Visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites on this daylong excursion. When the volcano Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79, ash swallowed the city of Pompeii and preserved many buildings. Now, the archeological site affords glimpses into how people lived during the era of the Roman Empire. This trip includes two to three hours at Pompeii as well as a drive along the Amalfi Coast with stops in the towns of Amalfi and Ravello, both of which boast notable art and architecture. You'll also have a few photo stops, including one in Positano . Travelers consistently remark on the exceptional coastal scenery and the insight and humor of the guides at Pompeii.

Tours occur daily. Passenger pickups begin around 7:30 a.m.; the drive to Sorrento begins at just before 9 a.m. After a busy day, the tour returns to the city around 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at 128 euros (about $140) for adults, with discounts for children ages 5 to 12. (There's no fee for children younger than 5.) Prices vary by time and day. Keep in mind that tours in English may not be offered in the colder months. Prices include lunch at a restaurant on the coast, but do not cover entrance to Pompeii. If you can't get enough of the Amalfi Coast, World Tours also offers daytrips that visit Capri and Sorrento.

Prestige Rent – Wine Experience in Tuscany

Price: Adults from 89 euros (about $97); kids from 79 euros (about $86) Duration: 5 hours

Enjoy red wines typical of the Chianti region on this trip to two wineries. You'll also sample Tuscan fare, including olive oil, cheese and cured meat, during this approximately five-hour outing. Along the roughly 45-minute drive from Florence, guides will provide background information on local viniculture. At each stop, resident experts will describe the wine-making process. Wine lovers typically find the samples delicious and the guides energetic and informative.

Tours, which are capped at 25 participants, are offered twice a day starting at 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Prices start at 89 euros (about $97) for adults and 79 euros (about $86) for youngsters 12 to 17 and include transportation between Florence's Piazzale Montelungo and the vineyards, as well as the various food and beverage samples. Note: Children younger than 12 are not permitted on this tour. Prestige Rent also leads tours to Siena and San Gimignano.

Italian Days Food & Wine Tours – Bologna Food and Wine Tour #1

Price: Adults from 180 euros (about $197); kids from 150 euros (about $164) Duration: 8 hours

Observe the production of three Italian staples – Parmigiano-Reggiano, balsamic vinegar and prosciutto – on this daylong culinary excursion. Of course, this tour also includes samples of the cheese, vinegar and cured meat, as well as breakfast, coffee, wine and a multicourse family-style lunch. Throughout the day, guides explicate the food-making processes, which foodies invariably find fascinating.

Minibuses pick up in front of Grand Hotel Majestic in Bologna around 7 a.m. and head to Modena every day except Sunday. The tour lasts about eight hours. Tickets start at around 180 euros (about $197) for adults and 150 euros (about $164) for children 2 to 11, though costs vary by season. Prices include transportation as well food and beverages. The tour is capped at 18 participants. Italian Days offers a variety of food tours, including a walking tour in Bologna.

View & Book Tickets:  Viator

Bici & Baci Tours – The Grand Tour of Rome

Price: From 150 euros (about $164) Duration: 3 hours

Admire the signature sights of Rome from atop an Italian Vespa, on this approximately 22-mile ride around the city. Highlights include the Aurelian Walls, the Appian Way , the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain , St. Peter's Basilica , the Pantheon , ruins of ancient aqueducts and baths, and more. Reviewers consistently describe the guides as helpful, skillful, knowledgeable and enthusiastic.

Fees start at 150 euros (about $164) for a single person operating a Vespa or a passenger riding with a guide. Fees are about 250 euros (about $273) for two people on a scooter. Prices include use of a helmet as well as coffee or ice cream. Daily tours start at 10 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. and typically last around three hours.

Note: Operators of Vespas must have valid motorcycle or driver's licenses. Children are permitted as passengers with their parents as long as they are tall enough for their feet to reach the scooters' foot pegs. The company also operates tours that travel to some of the city's most iconic movie filming locations.

Best Italy Tours

City Wonders – Best of Milan Duomo Cathedral & Da Vinci's 'Last Supper' Tour

Price: Adults from $125; kids from $114 Duration: 3 hours

Take a walking tour of Milan and enjoy skip-the-line access to two of its top attractions. You'll experience the Duomo , a monumental cathedral, construction of which commenced around 1386 and went on for centuries. Another highlight of this trip is a visit to Leonardo's "The Last Supper" in its original location, a former convent. Plus, you'll visit spots like Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century shopping arcade housing upscale boutiques; Sforzesco Castle , a 15th-century military fortification; and the cobbled streets of the Brera district. Travelers consistently describe the guides as insightful and professional.

This excursion happens multiple times every day except Monday. Specific start times vary by day. Tours last three hours, including 15 minutes with the famous painting. Prices start at around $125 for anyone 15 and older and $114 for those 14 and younger. Groups have no more than 14 participants.

Grape Tours in Tuscany – Super Chianti Wine Tour

Price: From 195 euros (about $213) Duration: 7 hours

Spend a day indulging in wine on this trip to the cellars and vineyards of two wineries. In addition to visiting Chianti and Chianti classico wineries and sampling vino, cheese and olive oil, you'll also enjoy lunch at an eatery in the Tuscan hilltop town of Panzano. Wine lovers report enjoying learning about the regions' wine from the adept guides.

Tours happen every day except Sunday. Buses leave Florence at 10 a.m. and return approximately seven hours later. Tours, including transportation and food and beverages, cost approximately 195 euros (about $213) per person. The outing welcomes up to eight participants, and guests must be at least 16 years old.

View & Book Tickets:  Grape Tours in Tuscany

TopBike Rental & Tours – Rome City Bike Tour

Price: From 65 euros (about $71) Duration: 4 hours

Wind through the streets of Rome and see several of its famed attractions on this four-hour electric bike ride, offered in either the morning or the afternoon. Tours may include visits to popular attractions like the Colosseum, the Piazza Navona , the Jewish Ghetto, the Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the Orange Garden for its views of the city, including the dome of St. Peter's. Cyclists regularly praise the insightful, friendly guides on this leisurely ride.

Morning start times vary by time of year, but are usually 8:45 or 9:30 a.m.; afternoon trips start at 2 or 3 p.m. It costs approximately 65 euros (about $71) to take this ride, and that includes use of an e-bike and helmet. The company also operates daylong bike tours that include lunch, as well as guided outings along the Appian Way.

City Wonders – Florence Fully Guided Tour with Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo's David and Accademia

Price: Adults from $108; kids from $102 Duration: 5 hours

Bypass the lines to enter both the Uffizi Gallery – home to 14th-century and Renaissance masterpieces by the likes of Botticelli, Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo and Caravaggio – and the Accademia Gallery – where Michelangelo's 14-foot David sculpture resides – on this tour. In addition to independent visits to the galleries, the small-group outing includes a two-hour guided walking tour of the center of Florence to see top sights, such as its cathedral, the Ponte Vecchio bridge, the leather market and Piazza della Signoria. Tour-takers generally appreciate the guides' commentary regarding the city's art, architecture and history. Others warned future travelers that the visits to the galleries are unguided.

Half-day tours with 10 and 10:30 a.m. start times happen daily. Prices are about $108 for adults and $102 for children 4 to 14. Children 3 and younger tour for free. Groups are limited to 17 people.

Best Italy Tours

Walkabout Florence Tours – Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with optional Hiking Tou

Price: Adults from 113 euros (about $123); kids from 100 euros (about $109) Duration: 13 hours

This daylong expedition takes travelers to the towns comprising the Cinque Terre , a string of old fishing villages overlooking the Mediterranean Sea that form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Buses travel from Florence to Manarola, home to vineyards and colorful buildings typical of the area. From there, trains head to Corniglia, which boasts unrivaled views of the sea. After lunch, participants can either hike the mule trails that connect the towns or ride a train to Vernazza, where swimming or visiting cafes and bars are among the optional activities. Trains then proceed to Monterosso, a town known for both beaches and shops. Weather permitting, the tour also includes a boat ride to the fifth and final Cinque Terre town, Riomaggiore. Trip-takers rave about both the scenic locations and the efficient, personable guides.

Tourgoers return to Florence approximately 13 hours after the daily 7:30 a.m. departure time. Tickets for the tour start at around 113 euros (about $123) for adults and 100 euros (about $109) for kids 8 to 17. Children younger than 8 are not permitted. Prices do not include lunch in Corniglia, but an upgrade is available for an additional fee.

Delicious Bologna – Daylight Food Tour Bologna

Price: Adults from 90 euros (about $98); kids from 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Taste some of the essentials of Italian cuisine on this small-group walking tour. In addition to a light breakfast of cappuccino and cornetto (a croissant-like pastry) and lunch of multiple pasta dishes, this outing features samples of local cheese, cured meat, vinegar and wine. It also visits a food market and a pasta factory. Throughout, guides provide commentary about regional culture and traditions, which culinary enthusiasts tend to find informative.

Tours take place every day except Sunday at 10 a.m. and last four to five hours. Groups of up to eight people begin the day at the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana. Fees start at 90 euros (about $98) for adults and 70 euros (about $76) for kids and teens ages 2 to 14. (There's no charge for infants.) Additional food and wine tours, as well as cooking classes, are hosted by Delicious Bologna.

Streaty Street Food Tours of Italy – Palermo Street Food and Local Market Tour

Price: Adults from 54 euros (about $59); kids from 20 euros (about $22) Duration: 3 hours

Savor varieties of Sicilian fare on this walking tour of Sicily 's capital, Palermo. Samples are likely to include arancina (stuffed rice balls), cazzilli fritters, pani câ meusa (a veal offal roll), sfincione (focaccia with tomato sauce), cannoli filled with ricotta, broscia col gelato (an ice cream sandwich) and seasonal items, as well as beer and wine. After departing from Teatro Massimo, tours wind through backstreets rather than the city's main thoroughfares. Travelers typically find this tour both fun and educational.

Walks last three hours and are available at multiple times Monday through Saturday all year, usually starting between 10 and 11 a.m. Prices start at 54 euros (about $59) for participants ages 12 and older and 20 euros (about $22) for children 6 to 11. Groups are limited to 10 participants. The company also offers an evening food tour in Palermo.

Etna Tribe – Excursion Etna and Taormina

Price: Adults from 85 euros (about $93); kids from 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 9 hours

Explore Mount Etna , an active volcano on the east coast of Sicily that ranks as the highest island mountain in the Mediterranean, on this daylong tour. Your guide will drive you from Catania to a section on Etna's south face where you'll hike up to 6,560 feet above sea level, or (for additional fees) take a cable car up to 8,200 feet. From there, you'll have the option of taking a van to Torre del Filosofo, which sits at an elevation of more than 9,500 feet. With an alpine guide leading the way, you'll explore the lava-carved terrain. The trip also includes a stop at an organic farm and a visit to the town of Taormina, where you'll have time to wander among attractions, such as a cathedral, a clock tower, a palace and a theater, before the drive back to Catania. Tour-takers enjoy walking among the volcano craters and learning about the area from the friendly, accommodating guides.

Pickup starts at 8:30 a.m. and tours, which occur daily, last approximately nine hours. Prices start at 85 euros (about $93) for those 12 and older, 70 euros (about $76) for kids ages 3 to 11 and 20 euros (about $22) for infants. Paying online in advance may save you a few euros per ticket. The optional cable car ride costs an additional 50 euros (about $55) and the high-altitude option, including both the cable car and the van rides, start at 78 euros (about $85) per person. Etna Tribe also offers sunset excursions to the mountain, among other options.

The Best Multiday Tours in Italy

While there are plenty of tours across Italy's most popular cities that last a few hours or an entire day, some travelers may be interested in multiday tours that visit several destinations or points of interest. Below are some of the top multiday tours in Italy.

  • Best of Italy: Visit Rome, Assisi, Siena, Florence, Bologna, Venice and more. Book on GetYourGuide .
  • Amalfi Coast Small Group Tour: Explore Pompeii, Capri and Sorrento. Book on Viator .
  • Scenic Sicily Tour: See the towns of Taormina, Palermo, Mount Etna and Erice. Book on Viator .
  • Classic Cultural Cities: Discover the sights of Rome, Venice and Florence. Book on Viator.
  • Highlights of the Italian Lakes: Enjoy Milan, Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda and more. Book on Grand European Travel .
  • Scenic Sailing Adventure: Sail around Sardinia and Corsica. Book on Viator .
  • Fun for Foodies: Taste your way across Italy on a nine-day food tour. Book on The Table Less Traveled .

You may also be interested in:

  • The Best Places to Visit in Italy
  • The Most Beautiful Beaches in Italy
  • The Best International Travel Insurance
  • The Best Places to Visit in Europe
  • The Best Cheap European Vacations

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Italy

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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Getting your itinerary right is essential for any destination you decide to travel to. The same goes for trips to Russia. There is a lot to see and do, but how do you decide what goes into your itinerary and what doesn't? We always suggest planning your Russia vacation with a travel expert that has organized multiple trips before. Yes, we're talking about ourselves. We know the ins and outs of this gorgeous destination, and we're ready to help you see the best of Russia. But are you ready, though? If you are considering booking an escorted tour of Russia, chat with us right away, and we will tailor-make an itinerary that suits your travel preferences and our premium travel values.

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Looking for an unforgettable Europe tour? Book a fully-organized trip with the best tour companies in Europe and let the tour operator take care of everything for you. Check out the tour details and read 175138 reviews from our customers to help you choose the perfect tour for you.

List of Europe travel companies & tour operators with 175138 reviews

Costsaver

  • Excellent - 855 reviews for Europe tours
I have not taken the tour yet, but am not pleased with the service. I want to take the tour originating in London which is an 8 day trip, as I will be in London before and after the tour, vs 10 days for the exact same tour if I am coming from another country and joining the tour from my country. I want to pay for the tour in my currency, but the only way to do so is to book on the Costsaver website for my country. Otherwise, I would have to book on their UK website and pay associated credit card service charges and foreign exchange fees. I opted to pay in my currency, so I have been forced to book a 10 day tour that I do not want. Costsaver will refund me for the 1st and last nights' hotel accommodation that I do not need, but I have to wait until they know which hotels they will be using. I want that refund now because I have overpaid due to the inflexibility in their booking systems.
Awesome experience, Ellco and Sarah were great and made sure our trip was safe, informative and fun!

Expat Explore Travel

Expat Explore Travel

  • Excellent - 4,194 reviews for Europe tours
Well organised, great tour leader and coach drivers.
Having Gustavo Gomes as a Team Leader and combination with Sebastiano as a Coach driver really made a difference in having a memorable experience our first trip in Europe.

Europamundo

Europamundo

  • Good - 2,848 reviews for Europe tours
Most of the tour was okay but there was too much free time. People go on guided tours to be guided. For example in Florence we had hours just wandering around looking at gold stores which gets old after a while. At least give people more optional excursions. Paris was where we ran into more issues. Day 8 we were supposed to start the day off in Versailles but instead we spent hours wandering around sacre coeur and only went to Versailles about an hour and a half before they closed so by the time we went through the ticket line and into the palace we only had an hour to run through as much as we could. I assume europamundo knew when Versailles would close and that’s why on the itinerary it said we’d be going in the morning so it was a disappointment and a surprise to then only be able to spend an hour visiting the palace.
We had an amazing time on this trip. This was our first trip to Turkiye and we are tremendously glad that we chose the operator, Europamundo. All arrangements were well planned and communicated in advance. The chat support also proved truly handy. We would like to share our immense gratitude to our guides and drivers who welcomed us and introduced us to the rich culture. We will highly recommend this trip for first time travellers or elderly travellers.

Travel Talk

Travel Talk

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  • Excellent - 6,354 reviews for Europe tours
Our tour leader Bojan was great. Loved the optional made personal experiences. Would recommend to friends and family as a tour and tour guide.
Exceptional tour and tour leader. Within a few days the volume of uniqeu places we visited was immense. Bojan our tour leader was awesome. Uniqeu and awesome experience. I look forward to the next Travel Talk trip.

Penguin Travel

Penguin Travel

  • Excellent - 463 reviews for Europe tours
A tour for the traveller rather than tourist. A lot of wasted time waiting for local guide sometimes 2hours. No advice on places to see, etc. Quality of hotels satisfactory as they varied such a lot and I like simple. Tour itinerary was very good and enjoyed the experience.
The highlights for me were Musala Peak, Rila Lakes, and Vihren peak. Our guide, Boryana, was positive, good at organising and planning everything and took care of our safety, she had an amazing attention to detail. The accommodationn was good, all very welcoming places, friendly staff and homely set up. I would have loved more detailed and accurate day to day itinerary, and to be handed a hard copy version in person when arriving. I had a very unpleasant exprience with the arrival transfer with the taxi - the driver was rude and I felt unsafe travelling at such speedd. Boryans's driving on the other hand was excellent, she was always keeping us informed about the journey ahead and provided local kowledge en route, always offering comfort brakes.

Choose Balkans

Choose Balkans

  • Excellent - 407 reviews for Europe tours
Excellent tour, packed itinerary, Almir was a great guide, very friendly and flexible, customer-focused, and knowledgeable about Albania and the surrounding Balkan countries. Would highly recommend this tour to travelers looking for a bit of an off-the-beaten path experience with beautiful nature and unique, interesting cultures.
We did this tour on our first morning in Tirana and it was the perfect way to start our trip. Brikena did an amazing job introducing us not just to the traditional food of the city and country, but also some parts of the way of life there. The tour took us past a number of landmarks so we could get our bearings, and the food from various places, coffee and raki were all great and taking in in great settings. Just to top it off, Brikena's recommendations for the rest of our trip were spot on as well! Could not recommend this more!

Globus

  • Excellent - 10,884 reviews for Europe tours
Terrible customer service. Globus forgot to include airfare and then were never going to book it until I brought it to their attention. Then they refused to let me speak to anyone in management. These people will ruin your vacation.
The tour guide Angel was excellent. The tour was well structured and I liked how the optional tours were offered, so you could rest or continue exploring depending on what you wanted. The tour group was larger than I would have liked (41 people) but the tour was very well organized regardless of this

Trafalgar

  • Excellent - 1,867 reviews for Europe tours
The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.
Our Travel Director, Lasse Damstoft, excelled in his role and greatly enhanced the overall experience, creating lasting memories for all involved.

Topdeck

  • Excellent - 4,617 reviews for Europe tours
Roxy (tour guide) and Adam (driver) are legends! They are so knowledgeable and professional. Definitely made the trip amazing for all of us. Thank you so much Roxy and Adam!
It was an incredible, well-organized, and fun trip!

G Adventures

G Adventures

  • Excellent - 18,999 reviews for Europe tours
Hotels had dead cockroaches lying around, guide was sweet but not experienced at creating a cohesive group feel. On top of which, the credit that GAdventures gave me to compensate for the mediocrity of the trip expired in 6 months - even the airlines give you a year! And some trips have no option to have a private room (yes, I';m willing to pay extra for that).
Great attention to detail. Enthusiast tour leader. Loved the adventure!

Contiki

  • Excellent - 5,338 reviews for Europe tours
Best trip with awesome people!
Our tour manager Beck was amazing and has gone above and beyond her duties to make sure everyone was taken cared of and is having a very good experience! In the same way, our driver Tiago was great! The itineraries were very packed, as expected but Beck and Tiago have been amazing at making sure we still get the best experiences despite the very little time. Overall, joining this trip will allow you to see a lot of beautiful European places, have amazing photographs, and have good experiences without putting a huge dent in your wallet. With all these amazing things that I have to say, I have to put warnings here for people for them to know whether or not this is the right trip for them. First, this is a budget trip. Therefore, please do not expect the accommodations to be fantastic. The accommodations were functional but not with any wow factor. Next, Contiki caters to a predominantly to young travelers. If you are not heavy on partying, you may want to reconsider! Nobody forces you to party and tour managers will in fact arranged ways to get you back to the accommodations if you decide not to join nightly scheduled parties. However, even a lot of included and add-on meals involves a lot of heavy alcohol drinking. A lot of included and add-on meals are only okay at best. Do not expect amazing gourmet experience but do expect unlimited alcohol servings! Lastly, Contiki is an Australian company. Therefore, expect experiences to be catered to Australian culture. If you are an American or any nationality who values your quality personal space and personal time, this will not be the right trip for you!

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

  • Excellent - 11,651 reviews for Europe tours
The area covered was perfect. The guide was fantastic. Her knowledge thorough and well delivered with great personality. She had the patience of a saint!
Excellent trip in the wonderful outdoors!

Insight Vacations

Insight Vacations

  • Excellent - 623 reviews for Europe tours
There was the largest December snow in 90 years just before we a. It made getting there a little difficult but well worth it! Our carriage ride was magical. Greg made it even more special. He was so attentive to everyone’s needs and abilities. Never rushing anyone. Not to mention his surprises every time we got back on the bus. Starting each day with “Louie Armstrongs it’s a wonderful world. We all would sing along. We became friends instantly and felt like family within just a few days together. I highly recommend Greg as a tour guide he really added to the experience. The atmosphere he created by showing us all how much he truly cared for each of us. He is an exceptional person and I for one feel that the trip would have not been the same without him!!!!!
Great variety of markets. Well organised and Greg was very helpful when I had a bit of a mobility issue.

Overland Ireland - Small Group Tours

Overland Ireland - Small Gr…

  • Excellent - 459 reviews for Europe tours
Mike was an excellent guide, informative, very knowledgeable and flexible with the itinerary when necessary
Exceeded my expectations. Culture, landscapes, language, history, activities…so much in just a week. Accommodations were very comfortable, food was delicious and plentiful, people were welcoming and generous. Our guide (Pat O’Mara) made the entir3 experience an absolute joy. He was knowledgeable, told stories and histories in a folksy and humorous tone. He was competent, flexible, and inspired with a clear love of his own country that made us love it too.

Cosmos

  • Excellent - 4,906 reviews for Europe tours
l Little bit of rain, but didn't affect the trip at all Tour guide Mike was excellent Ray Pfeiffer
On the whole the tour was brilliant and we were well looked after by Kristina our tour guide and Francesco our driver

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  • Nationwide Travel Insurance
  • AXA Assistance USA
  • Travel Guard
  • Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection
  • Tin Leg Travel Insurance
  • WorldTrips Travel Insurance
  • Trawick International Travel Insurance
  • Travelex Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance Tips

  • Why You Should Trust Us

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Insurance

Our experts answer readers' insurance questions and write unbiased product reviews ( here's how we assess insurance products ). In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners ; however, our opinions are our own.

Traveling is an adventure, a leap into the unknown, a story waiting to unfold. But every story needs a safety net, and that's where travel insurance comes in. In this travel insurance guide, we'll embark on a journey to help you better understand travel insurance and uncover the benefits that make it an indispensable companion for any traveler.

Best Travel Insurance Companies

  • Nationwide Travel Insurance : Best Overall
  • AXA Assistance USA : Runner-Up
  • Travel Guard : Best for Cruises
  • Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection : Best Reputation
  • Tin Leg Travel Insurance : Best for Travelers with Preexisting Conditions
  • WorldTrips Travel Insurance : Best for Digital Nomads
  • Trawick International Travel Insurance : Best Low-Cost Option
  • Travelex Travel Insurance : Best for Road Trips

Compare the Top Travel Insurance Offers

Nationwide Nationwide Travel Insurance

  • Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

  • Cancel for any reason coverage available

AXA AXA Assistance USA

  • Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

  • Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
  • Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
  • Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

AIG Travel Guard

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

  • Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
  • Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
  • Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
  • Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Berkshire Hathaway Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Covers up to 100% of trip cancellation costs, a minimum of up to $750 in luggage losses, and 24/7 worldwide travel insurance

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers up to 100% trip cancellation refund for eligible travel
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Plans are customizable with relevant add-ons
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good customer service and easy sign up according to traveler reviews
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. More affordable plans offer low caps on medical and emergency coverage
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums are on the expensive side relative to comparable competitor plans
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Claims may take longer during peak travel seasons

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection is one of the leading insurance brands on the market. It offers several plans with key add-ons for travelers.

  • This provider underwrites travel insurance policies for a number of other companies in addition to offering its own plans
  • Travelers can file claims directly from a smartphone by using the BHTP app

TinLeg Tin Leg Travel Insurance

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policy coverage includes most pre-existing health conditions
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical and evacuation amounts for peace of mind
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. COVID coverage included by default on all insurance plans
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a wide range of plans for various budgets and travel needs
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans offer CFAR, “cancel for work reasons,” financial default, and unemployment coverage
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited add-on coverage options
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage loss and delay coverage is low compared to competitors

Tin Leg travel insurance offers eight travel insurance plans to meet the unique needs of travelers.

  • Tin Leg was founded in 2014 by the travel insurance industry experts at Squaremouth. Designed to meet the most common needs of travelers, these policies offer comprehensive Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits, and a range of Emergency Medical and Medical Evacuation limits.

WorldTrips WorldTrips Travel Insurance

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable base plans that can be customized with add-ons including rental car, pet care, hunting and fishing, and vacation rental coverage
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Insurance plans available for international student travelers
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage benefit that kicks in after just five hours
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Pre-existing conditions waiver can be purchased within 21 days of initial trip payment
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Lower medical, evacuation and accidental death limits
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited, secondary baggage loss coverage although baggage protection can be upgraded at a low cost
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc.

WorldTrips has been a reputable travel insurance provider for more than 20 years. Unsurprisingly, it boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and positive reviews from thousands of customers.

  • Travel medical insurance (Premium, Group, Annual, and International Student options)
  • Trip cancellation insurance
  • Trip protection insurance

Trawick Trawick International Travel Insurance

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Useful for adventurous travelers headed to higher-risk destinations
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable plans with varying levels of coverage
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 10-day free look option
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage loss replacement policy
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some policies allow a CFAR add-on
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million medical evacuation coverage limit
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage and trip delay coverages don’t kick in until after the 12-hour mark
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. International student policies available for temporary stints abroad
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complaints about claims not being paid or involving an intermediary to resolve claims

Trawick International travel insurance offers plans customized to diverse travelers' needs. We look at coverage options, claims processing, pricing, and other important factors for savvy travelers.

  • Travel medical insurance
  • Trip protection and cancellation
  • International student insurance
  • Visitor medical insurance (for traveling to the US)

Travelex Travelex Travel Insurance

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Options to cover sports equipment
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Option to increase medical coverage
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can cancel up to 48 hours before travel when CFAR option is purchased
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable coverage for budget-conscious travelers
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional "adventure sports" bundle available for riskier activities
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only two insurance plans to choose from
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage maximum is low at up to $50,000 per person
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pricier than some competitors with lower coverage ceilings
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Some competitors offer higher medical emergency coverage

Travelex travel insurance is one of the largest travel insurance providers in the US providing domestic and international coverage options. It offers a basic, select, and America option. Read on to learn more.

  • Optional CFAR insurance available with the Travel Select plan
  • Trip delay insurance starting at $500 with the Travel Basic plan
  • Emergency medical and dental coverage starting at $15,000

Best Travel Insurance Reviews

Best overall travel insurance: nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide Travel Insurance is of the largest players in the travel insurance space, offering nearly endless options for any customer on the travel spectrum, including annual travel insurance plans which can offer frequent travelers the flexibility to "set it and forget it" on their travel insurance coverage.

Nationwide Essential also offers some of the most affordable policies in the market compared to similar plans from competitors, which makes it a great pick for just about anyone. Buyers can discuss bundling options as Nationwide also sells homeowners, auto, pet, and other insurance products. Its travel insurance quoting is just as easy as it has been with other Nationwide insurance products.

Nationwide Travel Insurance Review

Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance

AXA Assistance USA  offers consumers a great option for no-stress travel insurance: low-priced plans, generous coverage limits on key categories including primary insurance on lost luggage, and up to 150% reimbursement for qualifying trip cancellations.

While add-ons are limited and rental car coverage is not included by default on cheaper plans, AXA is a perfect fit for travelers who don't plan to drive (or who already hold a travel credit card with rental car coverage), and don't need any additional bells and whistles.

AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance Review

AIG Travel Guard Travel Insurance: Best Travel Insurance for Cruises

Travel Guard is well-known insurance provider, and a great fit for travelers who want to ensure that they can get their money back in the event of canceled or interrupted travel plans.

While the company's policies can be pricey compared to its competitors, the high medical and evacuation limits make AIG a solid choice for older travelers who value peace of mind and simplicity over highly customizable plans that may be bolstered with medical upgrades.

AIG Travel Guard Review

Best Travel Insurance for Company Reputation: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection  helps travelers make the best of bad situations by simplifying the process of filing a claim down to a simple photo snap and some basic paperwork submitted directly through a dedicated app.

Approved claims are also paid out very rapidly, making it easier to carry through with a trip when luggage has been lost or alternative travel plans need to be made on the fly.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance Review

Best for Travelers with Preexisting Conditions: Tin Leg Travel Insurance

Tin Leg Travel Insurance is a great fit for travelers with medical issues in particular. Thanks to coverage for preexisting medical conditions as well as for potential COVID-19 infection while traveling, this company offers some of the best financial investment options for travelers who are or will be exposed to higher health risks and issues.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance Review .

Best Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads: WorldTrips Travel Insurance

WorldTrips Travel Insurance has affordable premiums, highly customizable add-ons, and generous coverage for core categories of travel insurance. All this makes it a great option for digital nomads, students studying abroad and backpackers.

However, travelers should keep in mind that plans are not particularly flexible, and coverage amounts are limited unless you plan ahead to pay for the areas and amounts that you need.

WorldTrips Travel Insurance Review

Best Low-Cost Travel Insurance Option: Trawick International Travel Insurance

Trawick International Travel Insurance  is another medically robust insurance provider that can help higher-risk and anxious travelers find peace of mind while on the road. This company offers one of the most generous medical evacuation policies in the market, although travelers will need to remember to add on rental car coverage if they need it.

Trawick Travel Insurance Review

Best Travel Insurance for Road Trips: Travelex Travel Insurance

Travelex Travel Insurance  offers three plans:

  • Travel Basic
  • Travel Select
  • Travel America

The Travelex American plan is meant for trips limited to the US, but it has the highest coverage limits in many areas compared to its other programs. If you're flying somewhere, the lost baggage limits are higher. Its natural strengths shine for road trippers, though. Travelex America adds coverage for roadside service and rental car coverage for unexpected accidents. It also covers pets should you be involved in an accident while on the road.

While your standard auto insurance does extend to car rentals within the US for a limited time, any accident would affect future rates. Travelex would eliminate the risk of reporting to your auto insurance provider for minor incidents within its purview.

Travelex Travel Insurance Review

Introduction to Travel Insurance

Why travel insurance is a must-have.

The unpredictable nature of traveling – from flight cancellations to medical emergencies – can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Travel insurance acts as a personal safeguard, ensuring that unexpected events don't drain your wallet or ruin your trip.

Understanding Different Types of Travel Insurance

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal. From single-trip travel insurance policies to annual travel insurance plans , from minimal coverage to comprehensive protection, understanding the spectrum of options is your first step in finding the right fit for your journey.

Key Features to Look for in Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Imagine falling ill in a foreign country; daunting, right? A robust travel insurance plan ensures you don't have to worry about the financial aspect of receiving medical care while traveling , even in the most remote corners of the globe.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Benefits

Life is full of surprises, some less pleasant than others. Trip cancellation and interruption coverage ensures that you're not left out of pocket if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel or cut your trip short.

Coverage for Personal Belongings and Baggage Loss

Losing your belongings is more than an inconvenience; it's losing a piece of your world. Insurance that covers personal belongings and baggage loss ensures that you're compensated for your loss, helping you to rebound and continue your adventure.

Support and Assistance Services

In times of trouble, having a lifeline can make all the difference. Look for insurance that offers 24/7 support and assistance services, giving you peace of mind that help is just a phone call away.

Choosing Travel Insurance

Reputation and reliability of the travel insurance provider.

A provider's reputation is not just about being well-known; it's about reliability, customer satisfaction, and the ability to deliver on promises. Researching and choosing a reputable provider is a cornerstone in ensuring your safety and satisfaction.

Understanding the Policy's Fine Print

The devil is in the details, and understanding the fine print of what your travel insurance policy covers is crucial. Be aware of coverage limits, exclusions, and the process for filing a claim to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

In the age of information, customer reviews and feedback are goldmines of insight. Learn from the experiences of others to gauge the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider you're considering.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Insurance

Knowing your policy inside out.

Familiarize yourself with every aspect of your policy – what it covers, what it doesn't, how to file a claim, and who to contact in an emergency. Being informed means being prepared. 

Steps to Take When a Problem Arises

If you face an issue during your travels, knowing the immediate steps to take can make all the difference. Keep important contacts and your policy details handy, and remember, your insurance provider is there to assist you.

How to Pick the Best Travel Insurance Company for You

There isn't a one-size-fits-all policy that works perfectly for every traveler. Young, healthy solo travelers can opt for much cheaper plans that offer bare-bones coverage, while families juggling complex itineraries will do best by investing in a robust policy that can help defray any costs associated with lost baggage, delayed transportation or other trip-impeding obstacles.

That being said, you can't go wrong with a travel insurance provider that boasts a reputable history and offers a wide range of customizable plans. In some cases, you may be comparing plans that are only a few dollars' apart from each other. In such situations, you should generally opt for the insurance company that offers the strongest customer service. It's also worth considering whether or not the travel insurance provider has been reviewed by other travelers with similar itineraries to your own. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth is one of the best tools for searching travel insurance policies. Once you input the specifics of your travel itinerary, you'll be able to see hundreds of search results to compare the ones that catch your eye. If the options are too overwhelming, use the filters to the left of your search page to eliminate as many irrelevant plans as possible.

Yes, travel insurance typically offers some coverage of canceled flights, but if this benefit is important to you, make sure you read the fine print of your policy to make sure it offers adequate reimbursement. If you think you may need to cancel your travel plans, you should consider purchasing cancel for any reason (CFAR) travel insurance .

Travel insurance will pay out if you experience a covered event, such as a travel delay or delayed or lost baggage. If you're looking to get travel insurance for a specific reason, such as needing to potentially cancel your trip, make sure your policy will cover you in that situation before purchasing it.

Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include medical coverage that can come in handy if an emergency occurs and you need medical evacuation. Some travel insurance plans offer more specialized coverage for travelers with preexisting conditions, so shop around if medical coverage is a top priority for you. 

$100,000 should be a sufficient medical coverage limit for travel insurance. If you're planning on doing extreme sports or anything particularly risky on your trip, you may want to increase your coverage level. A high medical coverage limit is especially useful when you're purchasing cruise travel insurance, since medical evacuations are more involved at sea.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose The Best Travel Insurance Companies

To come up with our list of the best travel insurance companies, we evaluated each insurer based on the following factors:

Guide Methodology: What We Considered

Policy Types

Travel insurance is essential, but often underused partly because people aren't getting what they want. Business Insider's 2023 travel study showed 10.65% of travelers surveyed bought cancel for any reason insurance. Cost may be a factor, but in many cases, the coverage is more affordable than you might think. Regardless, companies must offer a diverse range of coverage options. We award 5 stars to companies offering all standard coverages and additional options like pet and sports equipment protection.

Our 2022 travel study indicated the majority of purchases were made through the travel provider (ex: flight protection insurance when you're purchasing your airline tickets). While these may be sufficient for some customers, we look for companies offering a more comprehensive range of services.

According to the US Travel Insurance Association, the average cost of travel insurance will be between 4% and 8% of total travel expenses. Anything beyond that price point should include additional benefits beyond the standard inclusions, such as CFAR protection or upgraded medical coverage. Anything below that 4% threshold may leave you lacking important or sufficient coverage in an emergency.

Convenience and Flexibility

Whether you're an infrequent traveler or a suitcase warrior, a good travel insurance company should have you covered. In many cases, you might not even have to talk to a person in order to purchase your policy.

Many people think of travel insurance in context with specific trips, but most of these top contenders sell both single-trip and multi-trip policies, also known as annual travel insurance. Some companies also offer plans specifically designed for cruisers, students abroad, and business travelers. (Read our guide to the best cruise travel insurance companies for more details.) Finally, all of these providers offer multiple options for getting the specific areas and amounts of coverage that you want.

Claims Handling

Most travelers never have a large claim. Premiums are low, and it provides peace of mind for the just in case situations. So they leave reviews based on their reduced stress levels. But what happens if you lose your luggage or have to stay a few extra days due to an unexpected accident? Will your insurance carrier cover your claim without all the hassle? We check real customer reviews to sort this out for you.

Ease of Use and Support

When purchasing, during your trip, and throughout the claims process, you may need extra support. Does the company have a 24/7 help line? Does it have an online or mobile system allowing you to self-manage? Essentially, what are the options when you need help? We look at the big picture to evaluate the average customer experience with each company.

You can read our full insurance rating methodology for even more details.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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best tour companies 2022

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  • World's Best

Travel + Leisure Readers' 15 Favorite Tour Operators of 2023

The right tour operators can make or break a trip. These specialists came out on top in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023 thanks to insider knowledge and personalized service.

best tour companies 2022

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

Courtesy of Butterfield & Robinson

While we travel to see the sights, what we really take home with us are the experiences. And finding the right tour operator — one that’s able to meld insider knowledge about a destination with the best ways to take it in — can make or break a trip. But when the right combination does come along, it can be pure magic, so it’s no wonder that the last year has seen group travel on the rise .

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Tour operators and safari outfitters were specifically rated on the criteria below:

  • Staff/guides
  • Itineraries/destinations
  • Accommodations

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

With nine of the companies returning from last year’s list , one major trend that stands out is the focus on a region, like with this year’s No. 1 pick, ATJ, which focuses on luxury travel, ranging from bespoke private to small group itineraries, in Austrasia. Also destination experts are Inside Japan Tours (No. 10), who offer themed trips, from honeymoons to diving, around the island nation, and Vagabond Tours of Ireland (No. 12), which makes its debut on the list, standing out for its B Corporation status, as it guides travelers around the Emerald Isle in their choice of style, either relaxed and culture-focused or active and adventurous. 

Also notable are the operators who go a step beyond, like two returning favorites: Artisans of Leisure (returning as No. 3) has been called “top notch”; one reader said that “no other tour operator comes close in terms of knowing the destinations [and] understanding what we want and executing our trip flawlessly.” Black Tomato (dropping from last year’s No. 4 to a still respectable No. 6) manages to both fulfill curiosity and allay FOMO on its adventures globally.

But more than anything, it’s loyalty that shows what a strong tour operator is made of, and readers often raved about return visits with a particular company. One, for instance, shared that after 25 journeys, Du Vine Cycling + Adventure Co. (No. 2) stands out among them all. “The best cycling trips I’ve been on,” they said. “Great staff, accommodations, and first class all the way.” And that’s the winning combo for a tour company — leaving travelers with that passion for exploring the world through their eyes. See the complete list of top 15 tour operators, according to T+L readers, below.

Courtesy of ATJ

Formerly known as Asia Transpacific Journeys, ATJ made the list in 2011, 2017, and 2018, and it now leapfrogs back in triumphantly, notching the No. 1 spot. Offering tours in countries like Australia, Bhutan, Japan, Laos, Mongolia, Morocco, Nepal, Vietnam, and Taiwan, the company specializes in custom itineraries and private group trips. But what travelers rave about is its band of extremely helpful customer service reps who are “responsive and personable.” They added, “I can call and speak with a live person immediately.” Customers tend to be loyal, but so are the agents: “I have used the same agent and she always remembers what we like and any special needs we have.”

I have used the same agent and she always remembers what we like and any special needs we have.

Reader Score: 99.07

2 . DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co.  

Reader Score: 99.05

3 . Artisans of Leisure  

Reader Score: 98.89

4. TCS World Travel

ReaderScore: 98.84

5. Trek Travel 

Reader Score: 98.62

6. Black Tomato  

Reader Score: 98.29

7. Classic Journeys  

WBA Hall of Fame honoree.

Reader Score: 98.27

8. Adventure Unbound  

Reader Score: 98.15

9. Scott Dunn  

10. Inside JapanTours  

Reader Score: 98.13

11. Butterfield & Robinson  

Reader Score: 98.00

12. Vagabond Tours of Ireland

Reader Score: 97.78

13. Quasar Expeditions

Reader Score: 97.53

Reader Score: 97.33

15. Jacada Travel

Reader Score: 96.20

Considering a guided tour in 2024? Here are the biggest trends to know before you book

What’s on the horizon for guided tours in 2024? A lot, it turns out. Travel as a whole has been on the upswing for a few years now, but this year looks to be one of the busiest and most exciting yet for guided tours. 

I’ve asked tour companies and the USTOA (United States Tour Operators Association) for their predictions, trends, and advice for the year ahead. Here are the biggest tour industry trends to consider as you plan your 2024 travels.

PLAN A TRIP: 12 best hotel booking sites for cheap prices

1. More solo travelers are joining tours than ever before

Solo travelers, you’re in good company. Tour companies are reporting a significant increase in solo travelers on tours. In fact, Road Scholar recently did a deep dive into the solo travel trend , and according to the report, up to 30% of its tour participants are solo travelers. Among those solo travelers, 85% are women. EF Go Ahead Tours has seen a similar rise, with 83% more solo travelers at the end of 2023 compared to the year before.

SOLO TRAVEL TOGETHER: 10 best tour companies for solo travel

It turns out that solo travelers often have spouses or partners at home but still yearn to see the world even if their significant other doesn’t. Solo tour travelers report loving the independence, how easy it is to make friends on tours, and the chance to spend time the way they want to.

2. The desire for sustainable travel is growing, too

The USTOA has been tracking the number of tour companies with formal documented sustainability strategies, and says that there’s been “substantial growth” in the number of companies that have developed plans this year. 

BEST OF THE BEST: 11 guided tour companies that offer trips around the world

I’ve also noticed a heartening shift toward tour companies thinking about their role in sustainability as I’ve been updating our tour company reviews for 2024. Pretty much across the board, tour operators are dialing up their efforts to support cultural and environmental preservation efforts. 

This takes many forms: reducing or eliminating single-use plastics, supporting local economies through artisanal goods and tourism, offsetting carbon emissions, working with wildlife protection projects, and more.

3. The shoulder season travel trend is real

Whether you’re an independent traveler or going on a tour, there are a lot of benefits to traveling outside of peak seasons. In 2023, EF Go Ahead Tours saw a rise in the number of travelers on shoulder-season departure dates (October through April in Europe, for instance), and the company expects that trend to keep growing in 2024. 

MYSTERY SOLVED: How much should you tip on a guided tour? All your gratuity questions answered

During its Black Friday sale, it reported that April was the top booking month for tours. Backroads has also seen a shift to more people booking earlier in spring and later in fall to avoid the crowds, heat, and higher summer prices. The trend is so pronounced that the tour company has added more departure dates to the 2024 shoulder season.

4. People are booking earlier than ever

When I spoke with a representative from Backroads near the end of 2023, the company reported that nearly 40% of its 2024 spots were already booked. Curious to see if other tour operators are seeing similar trends, I asked around. Road Scholar said that for 2024, it’s seeing a continuation of the early booking trend compared to pre-COVID, with an average booking time of 238 days before the start of a tour. And Avalon Waterways reports it’s seeing its highest early bookings in history for 2024, with several cruises already nearing capacity or sold out for the year.

TRAVEL OVER 50: ‘I cried at the goodbye’: How my aging parents changed my whole perspective on travel  

5. More trends to watch in 2024

Here are a few more trends that have come up frequently in my research about what to expect on tours the year: 

  • Destinations: Far-flung destinations are looking increasingly popular. Across the board, bookings are up for 2024 tours to far-away spots including Thailand, Japan, and Norway.
  • Experiences: Immersive experiences like gastronomy tours , hut-to-hut hiking , and pilgrimage routes such as Spain and Portugal’s Camino de Santiago have renewed appeal as travelers look for unique vacations.
  • Private tours: This is an interesting one because after a big surge in 2021 in tour companies offering private tours , a few tour companies have retired the private tour option. However, in 2024, some tour operators are doubling down on private tour offerings, saying that more and more people are drawn to the relative affordability of being able to create their own tour group.

Considering a guided tour in 2024? Here are the biggest trends to know about before you book originally appeared on TourScoop.com .

More from TourScoop:

  • 9 best travel companies that specialize in women-only tours
  • 8 best senior travel tour companies in 2024
  • 10 best tour companies for family tours in 2024

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .

6 Best Hearing Aids, According to Health Experts

Fight hearing loss with instant sound amplification.

hearing impaired man working on laptop at office

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Enhance Select 300

Best Overall Hearing Aids

Jabra enhance select 300.

Air

Best Value Hearing Aids

Mdhearing air.

Phonak Audeo Lumity

Best Prescription Hearing Aids

Yes hearing phonak audeo lumity.

7

Best Compact Hearing Aids

B2 Plus

Best Customizable Hearing Aids

Lexie b2 plus.

Styletto AX

Best Slim Hearing Aids

Signia styletto ax.

Our product analysts test health devices of all sorts, from knee braces and orthotic insoles to portable wheelchair ramps and more. When selecting the best hearing aids available today, we relied on our years of expertise covering health and interviewed industry professionals like audiologists to help you know what to look for when choosing the best hearing aids for you and your individual needs. According to our pros, these are the best hearing aids to consider in 2024, including OTC hearing aids, prescription hearing aids and other popular styles with positive consumer reviews.

Once you’ve checked out our top picks, continue reading to learn more about the different types of hearing aids and what to look for when shopping for your new device.

These OTC hearing aids will help those with hearing loss prioritize speech in noisy settings, like a busy office or restaurant, via Jabra's SoundScape technology. Though they may seem pricey, they're Jabra's most premium pair so you can expect the best sound quality and amplification .

Not only is the device sleek and stylish, but it's available in various finishes so you can choose one to your liking, including sparkling silver, champagne, gold, bronze and warm gray. Each pair of hearing aids comes with a carrying case that will provide three full charges, according to the brand, for days when you're busy traveling or can't get to an outlet. Plus, your purchase comes with a free 100-day trial. For even more perks, consider opting for the premium package for $200 more that comes with a three-year warranty, custom-programmed hearing aids according to your needs and app compatibility to adjust settings.

Improving your hearing doesn't have to set you back thousands. Our pros recommend these OTC hearing aids if you're looking for the best deal without sacrificing performance . While they're not as feature-rich or attractive as other pairs you'll find, you can purchase left or right ears separately or both pairs for even less.

The beige hearing aid sits behind your ear where you can make quick sound adjustments, while the clear tip should look discreet inside your ear. Claimed battery life is up to 12–16 hours, with up to three full charges provided from the carrying case so you can always stay connected. Our pros do warn, however, that Bluetooth connectivity isn't available with this model so you won't be able to connect your hearing aids directly with your phone's audio.

You'll have to visit an audiologist or hearing care professional to get a quote for these prescription hearing aids that are suitable for anyone with mild to profound hearing loss. They're an excellent choice if you're seeking some of the best customer care, customization and quality . With your purchase, the team at Yes Hearing will connect you with a local professional for a fitting, and then hearing aids will ship straight to your home. You'll also be eligible for follow-up hearing care. On top of the device's sleek design, our tech pros appreciate that thanks to universal Bluetooth connectivity you can stream calls, music, podcasts and more.

If there's one thing these Eargo hearing aids have going for them, it's their tiny, compact size that's virtually invisible once inside your ear. Because they're OTC, you can skip any in-office visits and use Eargo's "Sound Match" to self-fit and find the right fit for you. When it comes to battery life, these hearing aids feature 16 hours on one charge according to the brand, though the carrying case provides up to two days total of on-the-go charging.

Best of all, the Eargo 7 are waterproof and can stand up to humidity, thanks to their IPX7 rating, meaning they've been tested to be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. While these are pricey for an OTC hearing aid, each purchase comes with a two-year warranty.

Bose is a reputable name in the audio industry for its clear, refined sound, so it's no surprise that these OTC hearing aids powered by Bose earn a spot on this list. What sets this pair apart is the customization to your hearing level. Before wearing the device, you'll take an in-app hearing test to create a unique hearing profile. While we haven't tested the app yet, consumers share that it's easy to use and intuitive.

Like other hearing aids, these feature Bluetooth connectivity so you can connect your hearing aids to your iPhone and take calls (though you won't be able to stream music or connect to Androids). And in case you're worried about battery life, rest assured that the charging case provides an extra 18 hours when you're on the go. It's only available in gray, however each purchase includes a one-year warranty.

Signia claims that these hearing aids offer a refined fit, and our experts couldn't agree more. Not only is this device slim and discreet, fitting nicely behind your ear, but you can look forward to top-notch quality and several gorgeous finishes like black/fine gold, black/graphite, white/rose gold and much more. S uitable for mild to severe hearing loss, these prescription hearing aids require a consultation with a local hearing care professional before you can purchase them.

Our pros love that the feature-rich Styletto AX has some of the best battery life of any of the hearing aids on this list, with up to 20 hours on each charge and wireless charging capabilities. You'll also get up to four additional days of recharging from the carrying case so you can go about your day freely. Our tech experts point out that the device connects to both Android and iPhone for seamless streaming from the device of your choice.

How we choose the best hearing aids

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When narrowing down the best hearing aids on the market, the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute researched the most popular models available today and scoured online consumer reviews. We reviewed each pair for specifications such as style, battery type, connectivity and any warranties of free trials, also taking price and extra features into consideration. Lastly, we interviewed two industry professionals to learn more about what to consider when shopping for hearing aids.

How do hearing aids work?

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"The basic idea is that sensitive microphones pick up all the sounds around you and play them into your ear louder to help you hear them," says Sabrina Lee , audiologist at HearUSA, a network of 4,000 independent Hearing Care Professionals and more than 350 HearUSA centers. Though modern hearing aids are much more complex and factor in levels of loss, acoustics of the ear and listening preferences to customize the sound to your specific needs, each hearing aid has the same purpose — to help you cope with hearing loss and communicate more effectively.

Rajarshi Pratihar , AuD, MHA, MBA, Director of Audiology with UTHealth Houston explains the technology behind hearing aids even further: “These electronic medical devices capture sound waves through a microphone, which then converts the sound into digital code via an internal computer chip. This code is analyzed and adjusted based on an individual's hearing loss, and then converted back into sound waves delivered directly into the ear through a speaker, also known as a receiver. This personalized approach helps enhance the sounds that users find difficult to hear, improving speech, understanding and environmental awareness."

What’s the difference between prescription vs. OTC Hearing Aids?

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There are several notable differences between prescription hearing aids and over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.

" Prescription hearing aid s are for any level of hearing loss — from mild to profound — and are professionally fitted by trained professionals who test hearing through advanced diagnostic tools and validate the proper function of the device based on normative data and years of experience," says Lee. While these devices tend to be initially more expensive, she explains that when an individual purchases prescription hearing devices, they are also often purchasing several years of in-office service and product warranty.

OTC hearing aids, on the other hand, do not r equire professional hearing evaluations or programming adjustments and are intended for customers 18+ only. “ OTC hearing aids provide general amplification suitable for perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, making them more affordable and accessible with less personalized options,” says Pratihar. Though these hearing aids are a reliable option, they do come with certain limitations. "OTC devices are not suitable for those with hearing loss beyond moderate severity — a diagnostic term for the degree of impact on speech understanding that is obtained during a standard audiological evaluation," says Lee. She warns of potential drawbacks like inadequate testing and a lack of ongoing counseling. "Unlike eyeglasses, hearing aids require ongoing support from audiologists and specialists. Studies show that a lack of counseling on care and maintenance often leads to discontinued use due to discomfort or incorrect usage," she says.

Expert tip: When choosing between the two, double-check any information regarding warranty or returns. According to Pratihar, prescription hearing aids are designed to last five years and typically come with a trial period and a three-year full-service warranty and coverage for loss or damage. He explains that, on the contrary, FDA regulations do not mandate manufacturers to offer a warranty or return options for OTC hearing aids. Before making a purchase, it’s important to check each brand’s policies and to factor in any costs associated with ongoing care and maintenance of your hearing aids.

What types of hearing aids are there?

Most hearing aids are powered by rechargeable batteries, but the devices can come in various shapes, sizes and styles. “Each is designed to meet different aesthetic preferences and hearing needs,” explains Pratihar. These are some of the most popular styles you'll find:

  • Behind-the-ear (BTE): This is the most common type of hearing aid design and it's extremely versatile, according to experts. It rests behind the ear with a tube that directs sound into an earpiece called an earmold in the ear canal. It’s suitable for most types of hearing loss, whether severe or mild.
  • Receiver-in-cana l (RIC) or receiver-in-ear (RIE): These hearing aids “combine the benefit of a small, discreet device behind the ear with the powerful features of digital technology,” shares Lee. A speaker sits directly inside the ear (instead of behind your ear) and connects to the main unit by a thin wire. Both BTE and RIE hearing aids are appropriate for mild to profound hearing loss and can be as versatile as traditional BTE hearing aids.
  • In-the-ear (ITE): Microphones, speakers and computer chips are stored in the shell of these hearing aids, which fit inside your outer ear. According to Lee, these devices can come in a custom style, where the housing of the hearing aid is made based on a mold of your own ear. Non-custom versions are also available, with tips similar to earbuds.
  • In-the-canal (ITC): These custom-fit devices sit partly in the ear canal and are more discreet than BTE or RIC models. ITE and ITC devices are appropriate for mild to severe hearing loss.
  • Completely-in-canal (CIC): These hearing aids are even more discrete, fitting fully in the ear canal.
  • Invisible-in-canal (IIC): Even smaller than CIC, this style sits invisibly in the canal.

What to look for when shopping for hearing aids

Though selecting hearing aids is ultimately a personal decision, industry experts like Pratihar and Lee advise considering multiple factors before making a purchase.

✔️ Design: Don’t be embarrassed to consider aesthetics when picking out your hearing aids. “If you’re considering what device is ultimately going to become a huge part of your daily routine, you should pick something you’re comfortable with inside and out,” says Lee. She advises thinking about whether you prefer a discreet style that blends in with your hair or skin, or a hearing aid that looks modern and sleek.

✔️ Ease of use: Consider a style, like in-the-ear, that’s easier to put in and take out every day if you face dexterity issues or difficulty manipulating small objects.

✔️ Lifestyle: Individuals who frequently encounter challenging listening environments, like places with significant background noise, should opt for advanced or premium hearing aids with powerful noise reduction, like the ones on our list. Lee explains how noise reduction works: “The device will listen to the environment around you and search for speech over other noises like dishes clattering or the din of a crowded restaurant. When it finds noise, the hearing aid will try to reduce it while allowing mainly speech and other important information to be highlighted for you.”

✔️ Battery: Rechargeable hearing aids with extended battery life mean that you won’t have to recharge as frequently or constantly replace batteries. A rechargeable carrying case that provides battery life on the go is a huge bonus.

✔️ Connectivity: Thanks for Bluetooth connectivity, hearing aids can seamlessly connect to smartphones, TVs, computers, tablets and other devices to stream calls, music, podcasts or entertainment, significantly improving the user experience.

✔️ Waterproofing: If you live in a rainy or humid environment, you may need to consider hearing aids with waterproofing capabilities. “In areas with high humidity, a waterproof feature is essential to protect the device and ensure its durability,” says Pratihar.

✔️ Cost: Lee explains that the cost of hearing aids will vary depending on the level of technology you choose as well as whether your health plan offers coverage for the device itself and fittings and follow-ups. “The price range for hearing aids is broad, typically running from $1,000 to $4,000 per ear, based on the device's features, individuals’ specific requirements and services provided,” Pratihar says.

✔️ Extra features: Most modern hearing aids come with extra features such as tinnitus therapy, background noise reduction, high-quality streaming and Bluetooth capabilities, rechargeability and acoustic motion sensors, explains Lee. Pratihar adds that “ some hearing aids now integrate AI technology for seamless, real-time adjustments. These devices are capable of tracking steps and usage, and they can even detect falls, subsequently sending messages to loved ones.” It’s also worth noting that many of the latest hearing aid models are equipped with apps, which enable users to adjust their hearing preferences directly from their smartphones to meet their specific listening needs.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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Good Housekeeping Institute Product Analyst and Writer Olivia Lipski covers gadgets, health and fitness, home, travel and more. She regularly collaborates with GH’s Wellness Lab to test and review wearables, health devices and more. Though she hasn’t tested hearing aids herself, she often covers the latest in audio as well as accessibility .

For this story, she spoke to Rajarshi Pratihar , AuD, MHA, MBA, Director of Audiology with UTHealth Houston, and Sabrina Lee , audiologist at HearUSA.

Headshot of Olivia Lipski

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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