Travel blog

Europe Unlocked: Top Multi-Country Tours to Spark Your Wanderlust

Deciding to tour Europe is the easy part. The challenge? Figuring out how to absorb as much of it as possible without the hassle of constant planning. How many countries can you see at once? How many cities? Should you take trains, or planes?

2.8min read

Published 20 October 2024

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

In this blog

For those looking to see the best of Europe without logistical nightmares, multi-country tours could be just the solution. They allow you to see more than one European city or country at a time and are designed to make the best of your time, often with transport options that are difficult to navigate yourself – like private cars or cross-border buses.

Here’s a practical guide to some of the best tours that let you see two or more European destinations at a time, so you can enjoy the holiday instead of spending months going over train timetables, hotel choices, and juggling destination options.

Essential Multi-Country European Tours

Where to start? Europe is home to so many different sights, sounds, and cultures. Typically, you’ll want to focus on a specific region or some of the most ‘classic’ or ‘famous’ places. Depending on whether you’re seasoned European visitor or just dipping your toes into the waters (of the Mediterranean, obviously!), here are some top choices for multi-country European tours.

1. Western European Highlights: For under R30 000, there are plenty of Europe multi-country tours on offer. You could kickstart your adventure in Rome’s historical heart, then let Paris’ charm sweep you off your feet before heading home – or winding down in Amsterdam, Munich, or Vienna? Explore these countries with Trafalgar Tours and Globus - their itineraries are perfect for those who want a taste of Europe’s most iconic landscapes and cityscapes.

2. Scenic Scandinavia: If you’re looking for something different, venture into the Northern realms. Scandinavia is lesser-explored than the Mediterranean and Western Europe, but just as beautiful. Norwegian fjords, Viking history, Gothic cities and quaint colourful villages, rooftop bars, and Stockholm’s gorgeous archipelagos all await. For something truly spectacular, travel in winter to chase the Northern Lights with Insight Vacations.

3. Mediterranean Mosaic: If summer in Europe has you dreaming of dips in the sea, picturesque cliffside towns, Grecian isles, and tapas-hopping, the Med is for you. A Mediterranean multi-country tour in Europe is serious travel goals; a sun-soaked journey perfect if you want a taste of Europe’s southern charm. If you want to maximise your time, you could even stay in one country – like Italy, Greece, Turkey, or Croatia – and hop from town to town. Or island to island! On the Go Tours and Contiki offer great options to suit everyone.

4. British Adventures: Technically, we know this isn’t a ‘European’ multi-country tour idea, but it’s close enough! If your perfect itinerary involves ticking Great Britain and Ireland off your list, a multi-tour could let you see England, Ireland, Scotland, and maybe even Wales. From Buckingham Palace selfies to sipping Guinness in a Dublin bar, tours of the UK and Ireland are a great way to see the best of this part of the world. Go on your next adventure with Costsaver and Cosmos.

Why Choose a Structured Multi-Country Tour?

Multi-country tours strip away the often-overwhelming aspects of travel planning. They deliver a curated experience with the benefit of deep local knowledge from expert guides and allow you to see new countries in one go. Exploring areas which are geographically close to one another - or which share some cultural similarities - can help make your trip even more memorable. Ireland is wonderful as a singular destination, but experiencing London, Dublin, and Edinburgh all in one trip can help you understand the entire region’s culture and history. Plus, you’ll be able to compare the cities directly and decide which country is top of your list for a return visit one day!

And aside from logistical ease, these tours offer a unique social dimension. Travelling with a group of like-minded people can really make or break a trip. Especially if you’re booking something like Contiki, a multi-country guided tour gives you the opportunity to share memorable moments and make friendships that often last years. And that’s not just for solo travellers! If you’re taking a tour with a partner or friend, the group dynamic can still add a layer of enjoyment and security to your travel.

Ready to Explore?

If you’re itching to explore Europe but dread the thought of planning every step, a multi-country tour might be your best bet. It’s practical, filled with potential for unexpected discoveries, and most importantly, it’s structured to let you sit back and enjoy every moment of your European adventure without the stress.

Explore our curated European tour packages at Flight Centre. We can help you book a seamless multi-country tour – so you don’t even have to worry about the logistics of adding your flights and checking out!

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