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From ancient cities and lush national parks to century-old traditions, Europe abounds with culture. And, as spring approaches, if you’re thinking of booking a last-minute cultural discovery holiday, there’s never been a better time.
With that said, we’ve partnered with small group adventure tour company, Explore*, to bring you seven last-minute cultural discovery holidays in Europe. With carefully planned itineraries in over 100 countries, Explore’s expert tour leaders reveal the top highlights, authentic experiences and hidden gems only known to locals, helping you make the most of every destination.
To browse all tours with Explore, you can visit their website using the button below.
1. Trekking in Spain – Picos de Europa
If you love rural holidays, this eight-day Picos de Europa tour* might be for you. On a series of magical walks, you’ll get a taste of rural northern Spanish life as you venture through the unspoilt landscapes of this stunning national park.
The small village of Sotres is the base for most of the trip. As the highest village in the Asturias, it’s surrounded by an endless collection of beautiful walking trails – making it the ideal base for exploring the mountains. Plus, the hotel’s rustic restaurant and picturesque terrace, serving hearty, home-cooked Asturian dishes and delicious local wines, offer the perfect welcome back after a day’s hiking.
Enjoy stunning views over the Majada Jazuca Valley; learn about the region’s unique flora and fauna; breathe in the beauty of the iconic Naranjo de Bulnes Mountain; and walk along the cliff-cut paths of Cares Route (known as Divine Gorge thanks to its magnificent vistas). In Aliva Valley, a cable car will transport you to the rugged plateaux of the Picos for unforgettable, panoramic views over the national park.
There are plenty of opportunities to connect with the local culture on this tour, too. Explore the medieval town of Potes, learn about Aliva Valley’s abandoned Las Manforas mines, and enjoy a unique cheese-tasting experience in Tielve. Here, the famous Cabrales blue cheese is steeped in tradition, with several national and international awards behind its name.
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£220 off | Spain | 8 days | Accommodation Included
Great Europe Getaway! Save 20% on 100s of Europe tours. Offer ends April 10th
2. The Best of Georgia and Armenia
If you’re intrigued by the beauty of the Caucasus region, you might like this 16-day best of Georgia and Armenia tour*. Travelling from Yerevan to Tbilisi, you’ll straddle two continents, visit several UNESCO-listed sites, and witness the unique blend of cultures spanning these two iconic countries.
Experience the beauty of Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, which, despite having Bronze Age links, has a distinct 20th-century feel. Warm and atmospheric, Yerevan is popular for its boutique-lined streets, laid-back cafe culture, and grand Soviet-era architecture. Also on the agenda is the eclectic Georgian capital, Tbilisi, offering a similar mix of old and new, with its unique melting pot of architectural styles.
There’s much to discover on your journey between these iconic capitals, too. Marvel at historic sites like Amberd Fortress and the Monastery of Haghpat; explore unique towns like Vardzia and Gori; and enjoy panoramic views of mountains, alpine meadows, and stunning Lake Sevan, with its ever-changing hues.
You’ll also hike through the Kazbegi Mountain region, dip in sulfur baths, and enjoy a lesson in the unique wine-making technique used by Georgians since ancient times.
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Explore The Best of Georgia and Armenia*
£486 off | Armenia & Georgia | 16 days | Accommodation Included
Great Europe Getaway! Save 20% on 100s of Europe tours. Offer ends April 10th
3. Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast Island Hopping
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is popular for its rich history, stunning coastline, and charming towns. And on this island-hopping tour*, from Split to Dubrovnik, you can experience the very best it has to offer.
Enjoy free time in Split exploring the city’s diverse collection of historic sites, including its UNESCO old town and famous Palace of Diocletian, widely regarded as the world’s best-preserved Roman Palace. Next, it’s onto tranquil Brac, where the soft sands and sparkling waters of world-famous Zlatni Rat Beach beckon. Hire bikes, rent a paddleboard, or simply kick back in the glorious sunshine.
After a scenic bus ride to Vidova Gora, the highest point of the Adriatic islands, you’ll begin a downhill hike to Blaca Hermitage. Nestled in a remote canyon, this peaceful monastery was established in the 16th century by Glagolitic priests seeking solitude and is one of Croatia’s best-kept secrets. It’s the ideal place to recharge before setting sail for the island of Korcula.
Korcula is known for its dense pine forests, interesting rock formations, and extensive vineyards producing excellent wines. Explore the beauty of Kocje Nature Reserve and enjoy a family-run food-tasting experience before journeying to the lush Mljet Island, where verdant green forests and sheltered coves lapped by azure waters await.
Stopping at a charming winery en route, the tour ends in the ancient city of Dubrovnik, where a guided tour will introduce you to the wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage city. Walk along the city walls, wander the lively piazzas, or take a cable car to nearby Mount Srd.
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Explore Croatia Island Hopping*
£389 off | Croatia | 8 days | Accommodation Included
Great Europe Getaway! Save 20% on 100s of Europe tours. Offer ends April 10th
4. Rome, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast
This Rome, Sorrento, and Amalfi Coast tour* is the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty – just some of the many reasons why we love Italy so much.
Explore the picturesque plazas, iconic ancient sites, and stunning architecture of mighty Rome; and learn more about the birthplace of pizza on a guided tour of Naples. The traditional pizzas served here are popular for their thin centre, where fresh tomato sauce, olive oil, mozzarella, and fresh basil soak into the base! Plus, a journey to Mount Vesuvius and the famous archaeological site Pompeii will give you time to connect with another area of Italy’s rich past.
After a busy few days, you’ll get to relax on an inland route journey across rolling hills towards the beautiful Amalfi coast. Head out on foot along the spectacular Senteiro Dei Limoni (Path of the Lemons), marvel at the magnificent 11th-century cathedral, or enjoy an optional trip to Positano – a favourite among Hollywood stars.
The tour ends in one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, Sorrento, home to one of Europe’s most picturesque stretches of coast. Here, colourful houses perch on steep cliffs, with azure waters rolling below. Explore Sorrento’s historic centre, browse the central square’s quaint shops, and savour the taste of homemade limoncello on a visit to a local lemon grove. The beautiful island of Capri is also just a 20-minute ferry away.
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£399 off | Italy | 8 days | Accommodation Included
Great Europe Getaway! Save 20% on 100s of Europe tours. Offer ends April 10th
5. Highlights of Andalucia
From the vibrant histories of Granada and Cordoba to the lively atmosphere of Seville, Spain’s beautifully varied region of Andalucia has much to offer. And this eight-day Highlights of Andalucia tour* includes some of its very best sites.
The tour begins in Granada and Cordoba, two cities famous for their unique fusion of Spanish and Muslim art, culture, and architecture. Located at the foot of the stunning Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada is home to the famous Alhambra Palace, Generalife Gardens, and a magnificent 16th-century cathedral. And, in Cordoba, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Mezquita – one of the world’s greatest examples of Islamic architecture.
After a few days sightseeing, you’ll journey deep into rural Andalucia, towards the small village of Castano del Robledo. Close to the Portuguese border, Castano del Robledo sits at the heart of the Sierra Aracena National Park, surrounded by oak and sweet chestnut trees. Exploring on foot, you’ll walk to the picturesque ‘white village’ of Alajar, well-known for the striking 17th-century shrine of Arias Montano that overlooks Castano.
The tour ends with a two-night stay in Seville, where hidden flamenco bars and three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the beautiful Old Town and magnificent palaces of Real Alzacar, are a dream to explore.
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Explore Highlights of Andalucia*
£190 off | Spain | 8 days | Accommodation Included
Great Europe Getaway! Save 20% on 100s of Europe tours. Offer ends April 10th
6. Walking in Madeira
Madeira might be small, but this volcanic ‘Island of Eternal Spring’ bursts with culture and natural beauty. Kicking off in Santana, this Walking in Madeira tour* begins with a scenic hike through rural landscapes and along cliff tops and exotic forests towards Porto da Cruz. En route, you’ll stop off at Boca do Risco, a famously beautiful viewpoint, before refuelling at the sugar cane factory and rum distillery.
Then, it’s onto Boaventura for a hike along the Levada de Tornos – one of Madeira’s most beautiful levadas. Passing hidden waterfalls and the lush UNESCO-protected Laurel Forest, you’ll then get to rest your feet with a scenic drive to Porto Moniz, where volcanic rock pools offer the perfect spot for a refreshing dip.
On the Levada do Alecrim, there are several species of flora endemic to the island. And at Pico de Ruivo, Madeira’s highest point, traversing the famous Balcony Walk offers spectacular mountain views between the peaks of Arieiro and Ruivo.
Finishing in the historic city of Funchal where a mix of nature and cosmopolitan charm greets you, there’ll be free time to explore. Wander the old town’s cobblestone streets, browse the colourful farmers market, stroll through botanic gardens, or indulge in the best of Madeiran wine, produced on the island since the 17th century. There’s also the option to take a half-day cruise to spot whales and dolphins.
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Explore Walking in Madeira*
£200 off | Portugal | 8 days | Accommodation Included
Great Europe Getaway! Save 20% on 100s of Europe tours. Offer ends April 10th
7. Highlights of Greece
As the birthplace of democracy and cradle of Western civilization, Greek culture is deep and rich. Particularly for those with an interest in ancient times, it’s a difficult destination to beat.
This eight-day Highlights of Greece tour* begins in Athens, where you can soak in the charm of this surprisingly compact city at your leisure. A guided tour of the Greek Parliament and the Acropolis – Greece’s most famous and complete archaeological site – is included. Home to iconic landmarks like the Parthenon, the Propylaea, and the temple of Athena Nike, the Acropolis is a place like no other.
Departing Athens, you’ll head northwest on a scenic drive through the largest olive grove in Greece towards Delphi – once a religious sanctuary dedicated to worshipping the Greek god Apollo. Breathe in the tranquillity of this mountainous landmark and delve deeper into its fascinating history with a visit to the onsite museum.
Next, a memorable train ride will take you across the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge – passing deep ravines, gushing waterfalls, and mysterious tunnels en route to the small village of Kalavryta. Learn more about the area’s troubled past, before exploring the ancient site of Olympia, Epidavros (the best preserved of all ancient Greek theatres), and Nafplion – one of the most beautiful coastal towns in the Peloponnese.
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Explore Highlights of Greece*
£385 off | Greece | 8 days | Accommodation Included
Great Europe Getaway! Save 20% on 100s of Europe tours. Offer ends April 10th
Final thoughts…
From historic cities like Rome, Granada, and Tbilisi to the untouched traditions of rural Spain, it’s difficult to beat Europe when it comes to a cultural discovery holiday. Whether you see yourself strolling Madeira’s flower-adorned levadas or weaving up Italy’s Amalfi coast, there’s a holiday to suit everyone.
Plus, with exciting itineraries planned for you, on an Explore tour, you can simply switch off and enjoy yourself.
Head over to the Explore website to browse more holiday tours.
What travel plans do you have coming up? Have any of these tours sparked your interest? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.