Best Mediterranean Tours

From Spain to France to Italy, this affordable tour along the Western Mediterranean Coast, designed by a team of Tour Directors, features vibrant cities, historic sites, and amazing scenery. Visit Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Marseille, Siena, and Rome, and experience the stunning Cinque Terre, named after its five medieval fishing villages by the sea. This area is noted for its natural beauty with terraces built into the mountainside on cliffs that drop down into the sea, and for its breathtaking views. Spend time on the glamorous French Riviera, where you have the chance to visit a perfume workshop in Èze. Plus, enjoy picture-perfect scenery as you drive through the most fascinating landscapes and visit cameo villages such as Cuenca, Collioure, and Cassis! Local Guides will reveal the must-see sights on your city tours of Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Siena, and Rome. See Rome’s iconic landmarks such as the Vatican and the Colosseum. In Assisi, marvel at St. Francis Basilica, burial place of the saint, and home to beautiful medieval frescos by Giotto. This tour to Spain, France, and Italy is perfectly planned for value-minded travel lovers wanting a wonderful, yet affordable, Mediterranean vacation.

Conquer your bucket list to walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Ottomans, and the Turks themselves. Begin your escorted tour of Turkey in the historic city of Istanbul. Soak in the history and diverse cultures along its tree-lined boulevards, and in its cafés, and sophisticated eateries. Continue your Turkish vacation with indelible sights and historic Byzantine monuments that evoke an era of innovation. Discover rock-carved chapels, fortifications, and monasteries from Ozkonak and Goreme to the stories of the Silk Road in Sultanhani. Feel your head spin with a visit to the Mevlana Monastery Museum where 13th-century Whirling Dervishes were founded by the mystic Persian poet Rumi. Hear the tales of Troy where Trojans marched, and a magnificent wooden horse remains a legend worldwide. And take in the countless natural wonders of Turkey with dramatic landscapes, breathtaking views, rose-hued rock formations, and the serene, pristine beaches of the “turquoise coast” on the Turkish Riviera. Raise a cup of Turkish coffee, soak in the Mediterranean Sea, and toast your timeless vacation in Turkey!

Uncover the chic resorts, sun-soaked beaches, and elegant allure that attract the rich and famous to the exquisite French Riviera. Spend time in the fairy-tale principality of Monaco. Discover Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the crown jewel of the French Riviera. Get a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous in Cannes. Watch artisans create fragrant perfumes. Enjoy leisure time to explore on your own. It’s time you lived a little bit of the good life. Unpack for a leisurely multi-night stay, embracing the luxury and breathtaking beauty of the Côte d’Azur.

From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-soaked coast of the Italian Riviera, a romantic rendezvous with Italia awaits. Discover regal Turin, surrounded by alpine peaks. Spend a day exploring Cinque Terre’s rugged coastline. Relax with a 3-night stay in a Tuscan village and savor the sprawling vineyards and charming medieval hill towns of the region. Enjoy an interactive pasta-making demonstration. Visit Lucca, encircled by a stunning set of 16th century walls. Explore the iconic sites of Florence and the medieval charm of Greve in Chianti. Throughout your journey, discover a land rich in history, culture, and cuisine.

If you’ve dreamed of discovering the dazzling sights of Paris, now is the time to take in the City of Light and all its romantic and historic avenues. You’ll also visit the legendary Normandy landing beaches of WWII heroism, as well as the lush landscapes of the Bordeaux wine region. All of this and much more are included on this tour of France that begins and ends in Paris. History buffs are sure to be amazed by the many historic towns and attractions on this tour. Immerse yourself in ancient Roman history with a stop at Pont Du Gard bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 1st Century. See the amphitheatre in Arles, the city with the most Roman remains outside of Rome. Go back in time to the Middle Ages at the clifftop town of Rocamadour. Walk by the ancient battlements in the beautifully preserved, medieval town of Carcassonne; and visit Beaune’s Hôtel-Dieu charity hospital, built in 1443 after the Hundred Years' War left many of the town's population destitute. Coming to recent history, learn more about Normandy’s D-Day landing beaches, where Operation Neptune was launched on June 6, 1944. Art history fans will enjoy a visit to Aix-en-Provence, the birthplace of painter Cézanne, and a stroll around the 17th-century Cours Mirabeau, a lively area with fountains, elegant homes, and famous cafés. Spend time in the Loire Valley with its spectacular vineyards and castles. Discover Dordogne, one of France’s most picturesque regions, showcasing many charming villages. Of course, no France tour is complete without visiting the French Riviera, and you’ll have time to explore this beautiful area on the Mediterranean Sea. This value-minded tour through France is truly a vacation of a lifetime!

When you stroll through Croatia’s leafy towns, enjoy a walk in a national park, and marvel at its sparkling emerald lakes, it’s easy to see why other countries are green with envy. With its glorious coastal cities, ancient Roman ruins, magnificent medieval architecture, and stunning natural wonders, Croatia has it all. On this Undiscovered Tour of Croatia and Slovenia, you will see what European vacationers have long tried to keep secret from the rest of the world—impressive caves and castles, spectacular waterfalls, and walled cities, picture-perfect shorelines, and famous film locations. Game of Thrones fans will recognize Old Town Dubrovnik as the medieval setting for the fictional city of King’s Landing, yet at the end of this dramatic vacation to Croatia, you’ll be perfectly happy with the start-to-finish storyline. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Dubrovnik so you can plan your day your way.

Italy and Greece are steeped in history with a treasure trove of ancient sites and scenic beauty. On this affordable Italy and Greece tour, you’ll see the exceptional features these countries have to offer, starting in Venice and ending in Athens. In Italy, you’ll stay in the Venice area, Rome, and Florence; in Greece, you’ll stay in Delphi, Olympia, Nauplia, and Athens. Your flight from Rome to Athens is included in your package. In Venice, take a boat ride to St. Mark’s Square and watch glassblowers create works of art as they have done for centuries – or discover the lagoon at your own pace. Enjoy must-see sights, including Piazza Signoria, in the middle of Florence; see the Roman arena in Verona, and Pisa’s famous Leaning Tower. Visit Rome with a local guide who brings ancient Imperial Rome back to life. Step back in time on your visit to Athens’ Acropolis and the Parthenon, dating back to the 5th century BC, and the most accurate indication of the influence and wealth of Athens at its greatest peak. You’ll also visit Mycenae, dating back to 1350 BC, where you’ll marvel at the arches, fountains, ramparts, and amazing masonry still standing, and Delphi, known in antiquity as the “navel of the earth”. All these elements come together perfectly to create a value-minded Italy and Greece tour like no other!

Meet us for a rendez-vous to revel in the rues of Paris, the riverside where Jules Verne dreamed of deeper waters, and the royal chateau where cognac flows. Make a French connection from the City of Light to the dappled vineyards of Bordeaux. Break away from the ordinary with dreamy days in Marseilles, Aix-en-Provence, and the French Riviera in Nice. Try your luck at the tables in Monte Carlo and get the royal treatment in Monaco with 11 fantastic days in France. From cathedral halls to fortress walls; from Medieval treasures to Mediterranean pleasures, this vacation in France is a rendez-vous you won’t want to miss. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Bordeaux so you can plan your day your way.

Adventure awaits on this exciting Cosmos Undiscovered vacation where you’ll travel by land, rail, and sea to experience Western Canada’s natural beauty and off-the-beaten-path destinations. You’ll begin in Calgary with a city tour before heading to the majestic Canadian Rockies—featuring awe-inspiring Banff National Park, the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, and a ride on an all-terrain Ice Explorer across ice measuring 750 feet thick! Journey further into the breathtaking wilderness of Jasper National Park with the opportunity to join an optional excursion to Maligne Lake and the much-photographed Spirit Island. En route to Prince George, see Mount Robson, the Canadian Rockies’ highest peak. Embark on a stunning all-daylight journey aboard VIA Rail’s Skeena train through the rugged Coast Mountains. Retrace the steps of the ancient First Nations trading routes following the paths of the earliest fur traders and arrive in Prince Rupert for a two-night stay. Your adventure continues by ferry on a fantastic voyage on the Inside Passage through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery and the chance to see whales, sea lions, porpoise, eagles, and other wildlife. Overnight in Port Hardy and make your way south to charming Victoria on Vancouver Island. Visit brilliant Butchart Gardens and have time to explore this very British city before setting sail across the picturesque Strait of Georgia and Gulf Islands to vibrant Vancouver. Stunning national parks, a scenic train ride, a magnificent Inside Passage cruise, and visits to charming towns and exciting cities make this an amazing, value-minded Canada vacation not to be missed!

Discover the vibrant culture and colorful backdrops that are distinctively Morocco. Explore Fes, one of the holiest cities in the world, on a walking tour in the medina, where donkeys and mules laden with goods still walk the ancient market. Journey to your desert camp in a Jeep 4x4 and spend a full day exploring the Sahara Desert. Travel the rugged “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs” to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait-Ben-Haddou. In Marrakech, experience a true taste of Moroccan hospitality during an interactive cooking class at a women’s cooperative. Immerse yourself in Morocco's deep history and unique atmosphere and encounter welcoming people on an unforgettable journey.

If you have dreamed of taking in storybook-setting vistas, breathing in fresh Alpine air, and tasting mouth-watering Swiss chocolates, this enchanting tour of Switzerland has you covered from A to Zurich. Bustling cities, chalet-dotted hillsides, and pastoral valleys welcome you to the land of lush green farmland, glorious fondue, and glitzy fun. Join the capricious and carefree in the posh playgrounds of swanky St. Moritz, sparkling Lake Geneva, charming car-free Zermatt, and Italy’s celebrated and celebrity-full Lake Como. As you near lively Lugano and the Italian border, the scenery delightfully changes from mountainous panoramas to a Mediterranean paradise complete with chestnut groves, olive and fig trees, and fruitful vineyards. Dinner at a shady and cool grotto and lunch on a traditional Swiss farm provide local, delectable dining experiences like no other.

Originally chanted at the toreros during bullfights, “Olé!” is now a term used to congratulate anyone’s exceptional performance in sunny and live-in-the-moment Spain. Prepare for those two happy syllables to roll off your tongue as you discover the past and modern-day feats of everyone from artists and architects to chefs and winemakers throughout this lively tour of Spain. Our most in-depth look at the land of the nonstop fiesta, this 14-day tour leads you from city to city and coast to coast for Picasso and paella, fortresses and flamenco, and Gaudi and the great Rioja wines. Equally satisfying is seeing the legendary backdrops used for some of classic literature’s finest prose—from Granada’s Moorish Alhambra complex to Pamplona’s famous Calle Estafeta, the famous street where the annual “running of the bulls” takes place. Olé! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Bilbao and Málaga so you can plan your day your way.

Embark on a Spanish adventure as you take in medieval architecture, idyllic landscapes, and delectable cuisine. Marvel at the Prado Museum, a treasure trove of European masterpieces. Stand in awe before the majestic Cathedral of Seville, the world's third-largest cathedral. Feel the fiery passion of Flamenco with reserved seating at an electrifying show. Wander through the enchanting Alhambra palace, a realm of exotic beauty and grandeur. Treat yourself to an authentic paella feast, bursting with flavors. Be captivated by Antoni Gaudí’s architectural wonders in Barcelona, including the iconic La Sagrada Familia. Immerse yourself in Spain's rich tapestry of art, history, and culture, all set against the stunning backdrop of sun-kissed Mediterranean shores and towering mountain ranges.

“For we walk by faith, not by sight,” wrote the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians. On this religious tour of Greece and Turkey, you’ll stroll, skip, and sail by faith as you retrace the many missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul after he saw the light in Damascus. Both pilgrimage and picturesque journey, this land and cruise tour to mainland Greece, the Greek Isles, and Turkey leads you to many significant sites of the New Testament as well as some of the most magnificent sights of the Mediterranean. Scripture will take on new meaning as you visit the ancient communities where Paul established churches – and to whom he penned his epistles, including the Thessalonians, Philippians, Corinthians, and Ephesians. As you follow in the faithful footsteps of the Apostle Paul – with fantastic detours to Mykonos, Crete, and Santorini – you, too, will have much to write home about.

From Rome to the rocky cliffs of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, take in the best of southern Italy. Uncover eternal Rome’s myriad treasures and discover Pompeii’s ruins. Explore the breathtaking scenery of Italy’s coastline, from the dramatic beauty of the Amalfi Coast to the charms of seaside Sorrento. Stop at a winery for a taste of Lacryma Christi, learn how homemade pasta is prepared to perfection, and sip local limoncello. Featuring stays in two of Italy’s most beloved locales, experience the country’s renowned food, culture, history, and landscapes.

The locals say that the best way to drink a glass of ouzo, the Greek anise-infused liquor, is with a cool splash of water. This refreshing Greek vacation creates a big splash with an enlightening tour of Athens followed by a 7-night cruise to the Greek Isles and Turkey. Sail from port to breathtaking port to take in the mesmerizing sights of coastal Turkey and the Greek Isles. Walk in the footsteps of celebrated philosophers, run down the same paths as ancient Olympians, and then dive into the ancient ruins and resorts of the Aegean where legendary harbors, charming villages, and pristine beaches await. From the vibrant volcanic island of Milos to the whitewashed villas of Santorini, from historic Rhodes to wonder-filled Crete, to the modern getaway of Mykonos, it’s hard to say which sparkles more - the crystal-clear water of the Aegean or the hidden jewels along its storied shores.

In Greek mythology, the Scylla and Charybdis were two sea monsters located in the Strait of Messina between Sicily and the Italian mainland, endangering ancient mariners, and inspiring the expression “being caught between a rock and a hard place.” Will you find yourself in such a predicament on this Undiscovered Tour of Southern Italy and Sicily? On the contrary, you’ll delightfully find yourself caught between Byzantine and Roman culture, flanked by Norman and Italian influences, and in the midst of a cross-cultural wonderland. Your comparison of cobblestones, customs, and cuisine gets underway in Rome, heads down to the dramatic Sorrento Coast, and then kicks the fun from Italy’s heel to its toe and all the way into the great melting pot of Sicily. From Italy’s lower half to its largest island, ruins, resorts—a rich history awaits. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Sorrento so you can plan your day your way.

Journey through a crossroads of civilizations in Sicily and on to the spectacular coastlines of Southern Italy. Uncover Sicily’s capital Palermo and its Moorish and Norman influences. Explore Agrigento’s ancient Valley of the Temples and the Ancient Roman mosaics of Piazza Armerina. Travel to the historic hilltop town of Taormina. Visit a local winery for a wine tasting and agriturismo dinner. Venture to the ancient cave dwellings of Sassi di Matera. Explore Sorrento and stunning Positano, the pearl of the Amalfi Coast. Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in the excavated Pompeii. Allow the unique culture to capture your heart and get a glimpse into an age-old heritage composed of ancient monuments and cultivated lands.

Explore Sicily and Malta – two island paradises nestled amongst the deep blue waves of the Mediterranean. Engage with Malta’s dynamic past on a leisurely 4-night stay. Explore the charms of Ragusa with a guide. Spend three nights in Taormina, perched above the Ionian Sea. See Mount Etna from a different perspective on an off-road excursion. Discover how ancient traditions blend into modern society as you travel along timeless Italian and Maltese towns.

Trekked by more than half of humankind’s ancient world, modern day Sicily still offers off-the-beaten-path discoveries that reveal an undiscovered side of Italy. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, French, Germans, Spanish, Italians, and even the British have left an impression on this gorgeous island, and it shows in its diverse architecture, unique culture, and multinational cuisine. As you trace the sparkling coast from the flamboyant capital city of Palermo to the ultra-chic Taormina Riviera, you can expect stunning archaeological treasures, ancient works of art, and a warm welcome at every turn, and a cool gelato on every corner. Discover the marvelous sights of Malta to explore the ancient archaeological sites and amazing seaside sights along the way. Join us to experience these two countries' exquisite beauty that will stay with you for years to come—a guided vacation in Sicily and Malta you’ll treasure forever. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Ragusa so you can plan your day your way.

You've seen photos of the ancient Athens Acropolis, dating back to the 5th century BC—now’s your chance to see it in person. You've watched the Olympics on TV—now is your chance to visit Olympia, legendary home of the first Olympic Games. You've dreamed of cruising in the Greek Islands—now’s your chance to sail into the deep-blue waters of the Aegean Sea and experience these islands yourself. All of this and more await you on this budget-minded Greece tour and cruise. Step back in time on your guided visits to many of Greece's historic sites. In addition to the Athens Acropolis, visit the archaeological site of Mycenae, dating back to 1350 to 1200 BC; the amazingly well-preserved, 2,300-year-old open-air theatre in Epidaurus, which still seats 14,000 spectators; and the medieval Byzantine Citadel of Mystra, a castle founded in 1249. You’ll also visit the spectacular mountain landscape of Meteora with its 24 rock-top monasteries set in almost inaccessible sandstone peaks. Continue your Greece vacation on a 4-night cruise on the Aegean Sea, cruising to some of the world’s most beautiful islands. Visit Mykonos, Greece's most famous and cosmopolitan island, with its seafront village, sandy beaches, and whitewashed houses. Explore Kusadasi, Turkey, where an included excursion takes you to the fascinating Roman, Greek, and Byzantine excavations of Ephesus. Visit Patmos, where St. John the Divine wrote the Revelation; and Rhodes, one of Europe's largest medieval towns with ramparts and palaces built during the Crusades. Discover Heraklion, Crete, nestled picturesquely between two mountain ranges with archaeological treasures and spectacular scenery. Explore Santorini (weather permitting), a dormant volcano offering one of the world's most breathtaking panoramas. Picturesque fishing villages, sparkling blue waters, and ancient sites offer the perfect mix for the vacation of a lifetime. Your spectacular Greek tour and cruise is truly an affordable dream vacation!

Embark on this gripping tour through the dramatic landscapes of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Moments destined to become memories abound as you stroll through Lisbon’s music-filled Alfama quarter, pick up the speed on a four-wheel drive tour in the Sahara, and slow it back down to catch some rays celebrity-style on Spain’s famous Costa del Sol. Keeping the plot line interesting, more action, adventure, and thrilling scenery await from the perpetual oasis of Marrakesh to the former sanctuary of Granada’s opulent Alhambra complex. With so many sights to gush over from Tangier to Toledo, it’s impossible to be “quiet on the set” on this tour of the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Madrid so you can plan your day your way.

In Greece, discover a place where age-old legends and monuments intertwine with warm sunshine and island-style living. Tour Athens with a local guide. Explore the Acropolis, home to the famous Parthenon and the city’s best lookout. Enjoy three days at leisure on the island of Mykonos, an Aegean paradise of sandy beaches and bustling energy. Uncover the past at the excavation site of Akrotiri. Make the most of a free day on the picture-perfect island of Santorini. From to the ruins of Athens to the bright rooftops of Mykonos and Santorini - embrace the country at its best.

What shoes should you pack for walking on sunshine? The pair best suited for 1,000 miles of shoreline and 300 days of sunlit skies per year. With its refreshing Atlantic breezes and live-life-to the-fullest Mediterranean ways, the sun-drenched country of Portugal invites you to dip your toe—and entire body—into a sea of relaxation. This rejuvenating tour of Portugal leads you past rolling olive farms, through scenic cork groves, and down winding Moorish alleyways to the country’s signature delights. In its coastal villages and medieval towns, grilled seafood fills the tables, sweet port fills the glasses, and the soulful sounds of fado music fill the air. Continue your tour with a trip to Santa Cruz on the magical Island of Madeira, complete with crystalline waters and centuries of tradition and culinary treats. Explore “Little Lisbon” in Funchal, with its creative atmosphere that inspires the imagination. From the quaint charms of fishing villages to the quiet reflections from luminous pools and lofty plateaus, your vacation in Portugal is a feast for the senses and an unforgettable adventure for the soul. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Lisbon so you can plan your day your way.

What shoes should you pack for walking on sunshine? The pair best suited for 1,000 miles of shoreline and 300 days of sunlit skies per year. With its refreshing Atlantic breezes and live-life-to the-fullest Mediterranean ways, the sun-drenched country of Portugal invites you to dip your toe—and entire body—into a sea of relaxation. This rejuvenating tour of Portugal leads you past rolling olive farms, through scenic cork groves, and down winding Moorish alleyways to the country’s signature delights. In its coastal villages and medieval towns, grilled seafood fills the tables, sweet port fills the glasses, and the soulful sounds of fado music fill the air. Your vacation in Portugal continues with a flight from Lisbon to Ponta Delgada—to soak in some of Mother Nature’s finest work on the Atlantic Ocean. Take in the views of volcanic masterpieces from the top of Pico da Barrosa Mountain and visit Europe’s only tea plantation on the massive Maia farm. Visit Furnas’ geothermal wonders and marvel at the volcanic crater, cradling the luminous Sete Cidades Lake—one of Portugal’s Seven Natural Wonders. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Lisbon so you can plan your day your way.