Best European Tours for Seniors

Compare Top European Tour Companies for Seniors

We evaluated 15 European tour companies for seniors and narrowed it down to the best based on amenities, cost, customer service, destinations, itineraries, and customizable experiences.

We analyzed ratings and reviews from customers who traveled with the European tour companies on our list and interviewed senior travel experts to help you choose the best European tour company for your needs.

This guide provides an overview of European touring, including what seniors should look for in a tour package, some of the average costs and amenities, how these top companies operate, and what makes them stand out. Finally, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about choosing a European tour company.

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European Tour Company Reviews

With nearly 1,100 members of the European Tour Operators Association (ETOA), there is a tremendous selection of tour companies to choose from. We narrowed the field of choices for you. Our in-depth analysis includes each company’s industry reputation, the variety of offerings, and criteria specific to seniors looking to travel.

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GetYourGuide offers over 60,000 travel experiences globally, including guided tours, iconic attractions, and adventurous activities tailored for all types of travelers, including seniors.

The platform covers top global destinations and hidden gems, offering personalized itineraries and expert recommendations. There are no booking fees, and users only pay for the activities they choose. GetYourGuide partners with providers worldwide, ensuring access to unique and curated experiences, such as “skip-the-line” options or adrenaline-pumping adventures.

For user convenience, GetYourGuide features easy navigation, advice on must-see locations, and curated itineraries for selected cities. With a best-price guarantee and options like “book now, pay later,” it is an efficient, reliable way to explore unforgettable experiences around the world.

Get Your Guide gets plenty of online reviews, and most of them are positive. Users appreciate helpful, friendly tour guides as well as trips and activities that feel natural and not overly curated. Reviewers who like them report that they return repeatedly to find the best activities and experiences without the stress of planning.

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Viking River Cruises is celebrated for offering some of the best itineraries and destinations for travelers seeking an intimate experience. With a focus on river cruises, Viking provides a more personalized and enriching journey than ocean cruises. Its fleet of longships accommodates around 200 guests, ensuring a cozy and luxurious atmosphere. Guests can explore destinations along iconic rivers in China, Egypt, Europe, Russia, and Southeast Asia, making it a great option for those who prefer a wide selection of cultural and scenic locations.

Known as a pioneer in river cruising, Viking River Cruises set a high standard in the industry. Prices typically start at around $1,999, including access to various destinations and cultural experiences. Viking’s appeal lies in its carefully crafted itineraries that allow passengers to immerse themselves in local cultures through guided tours, museum visits, and even performances like ballet and opera. The cruise line also offers onboard amenities like a curated library, cooking demonstrations, and guest lectures.

With spacious staterooms, French balconies, and panoramic views, Viking’s river ships provide high comfort and luxury. Dining is a casual yet elegant affair, with menus inspired by the regions visited. Whether dining in the main restaurant or enjoying a light meal on the sun deck, the experience reflects the local culture. Viking River Cruises’ all-inclusive pricing covers staterooms, shore excursions, and onboard activities, making it an ideal choice for senior travelers who want an immersive, worry-free vacation experience.

An online reviewer in her 60s reported that Viking River Cruises is geared more towards the “boomers,” or those ages 65 to 80. It’s a slower-paced experience that docks close to the activities and sightseeing to be convenient for older travelers. The boats are also reported to be easy to get on and off. Other reviewers report knowledgeable guides, good food, and processes like luggage handling as a “well-oiled” machine.

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For over 40 years, Grand European Travel has been making European vacation dreams come true. It’s an excellent option for senior travelers looking to explore Europe’s rich history and culture. The company offers over 300 tour packages through some of the top vacation brands, like Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, Luxury Gold, Lion World, Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, and CostSaver.

Whether you prefer a leisurely river cruise or a guided land tour, their website makes it easy to customize your trip based on duration, pace, and budget, ensuring that every traveler finds their perfect European journey.

For seniors seeking specialized experiences, Grand European Travel offers a variety of themed tours. Prices per person range from $1,125 for seven days in Italy to $7,995 for a 14-day African Safari Adventure. If visiting European Christmas markets is your dream, Grand European Travel has 14 tours that fit the bill. The Christmas markets of Prague, Poland, and Germany give you eight days of magical Christmas memories for $2,425 per person.

Grand European Travel gets high marks from customers. The company has earned the prestigious Gold Trusted Service Award twice from global consumer review site Feefo with four and five-star ratings.

Travelers use words like “wonderful,” “excellent,” and “outstanding” and specifically mention the extremely knowledgeable guides. Several senior travelers say they like the ability to “tweak” their tour to meet their needs. A couple of negative reviews mentioned you have to pay for a lot of add-ons after your initial payment for the trip package itself. They felt like more should have been included in the price.

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Expat Explore started in 2005, sharing Europe with 200 people. The company has grown to over 18,000 travelers a year with 72 tour leaders and over 90 unique tour itineraries across 50 countries that will benefit senior travelers. Their extensive tour offerings cover Western, Eastern, Southern, and Northern Europe. Multi-country tour packages visit anywhere from five to 15 countries and last from seven to 26 days.

Prices for multi-country tours range from $1,045 for a seven-day Taste of Europe tour to $3,995 for 26 days exploring fourteen European countries. Seniors on a budget should shop Expat Explore’s low-season tours for significant savings.

Although Expat Explore has a policy that requires passengers to be able to carry their own luggage, once on board, the tour buses are equipped with reclining seats, an onboard toilet, air conditioning, and entertainment systems that will make seniors feel comfortable and secure.

Customers speak highly of Expat Explore in online reviews, describing the tour leaders as “professional, fun, and extremely knowledgeable.” Some travelers say their Expat Explore European tour is “the best thing I have done.” Many of Expat’s customers would recommend them to a friend or family member. That said, several reviewers report that the tours are fast-paced (not a complaint), but definitely something to consider if you’re a senior needing a slower pace.

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Founder Antonio Mantegazza bought a rowboat to transport visitors across Lake Lugano, Switzerland, in 1928. Almost 100 years later, this European tour company is still family-owned and includes brands Globus, Cosmos, and Avalon Waterway. Globus and its family of brands offer over 500 vacations spanning 70 countries. The company’s extensive list of awards and positive testimonials makes it a clear winner for seniors looking to travel.

For seniors wanting to travel Europe, Globus offers multi-country tours as well as faith-based experiences. Prices start at $1,529 for a seven-day, three-country tour that includes Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic. On the higher end, for $4,999, you get a 16-day tour of seven countries, including London. For seniors looking for a faith-based tour, they start at $3,399 for nine days in Jerusalem.

Customers give Globus high marks for outstanding tour guides and exciting itineraries with much to see. They also praised the extras that Globus is known for, like more visits, experiences, and sightseeing mixed with the perfect amount of free time to explore. According to one reviewer, Globus does take care of luggage and moves it for you from location to location—something seniors will appreciate.

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Tourists can explore Europe in luxury with Tauck River Cruises and European tours. Tauck offers more than 150 tour options across all continents, most across Europe. European travel tours for seniors include land tours and European river cruises. The Tauck staff strives to provide fun, memorable trips and excursions, educational elements, and unique shopping opportunities. Tour costs for Tauck start at $3,500 per person for standard tour options.

Tauck offers many destinations including:

• Austria, Czech Republic & Hungary
• Croatia
• England, Ireland & Scotland
• France
• Germany
• Iceland
• Italy
• Mediterranean & Greece
• Netherlands & Belgium
• Norway
• Switzerland

To learn more about Tauck European Tours and their many available options, read our full review or visit them online to book your next vacation.

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European Travel Tips for Seniors

European tour packages are an excellent way to visit another country and explore the culture. Some tours cover multiple countries in one trip, while others focus on specific areas to give you more time to immerse yourself in the experience thoroughly. Knowledgeable local guides are with you every step of the way to make sure you get the best experience possible and don’t miss a single site.

The benefits of travel for seniors far outweigh the risks. Traveling as a senior will allow you to keep your mind agile, make social connections, increase your physical fitness, and improve your emotional well-being. 

Travel agent and owner of Powell Travel Tours, Alison Turner, offers some helpful insights for seniors looking to travel. She said booking with non-senior-specific tour companies (like the ones on our list) is a great option. A mix of ages can be helpful for senior travelers, and multigenerational travel is a popular choice.

Regardless of what type of travel company you book with, senior travelers can make the most out of their trip with a little preparation and research. Turner offers the following tips that will help you book and prepare for a successful trip.

Tips to Book Your Trip

• Consider offseason travel, it can be drastically cheaper. 
• Focus on the itinerary you want, and don’t try to do too much. 
• Aim for two to three nights in each town. One night will be too fast-paced. 
• Schedule free days so you have time to rest and explore at your own pace. 
• Book with smaller tour groups – the smaller, the better. 
• Check out the activity level of the tour—how much walking, distance, how long? Make sure it matches your activity level. Again, don’t try to do too much. 
• Book hotels that are four stars at a minimum. This will ensure they have an elevator and proper air conditioning in hot weather. 
• Use a professional travel agent (not the tour company) to help you understand what is included and offer you insights into the day-to-day of your trip. 
• Plan to arrive one to two days before your tour begins to adjust to the time zone. 
• Book your hotel and pay for early check-in so you aren’t stuck waiting around if you arrive before the standard 3 p.m. check-in time.

Prepare Before You Go

A reputable European tour company will provide information about the required legal documents to travel freely in Europe. However, you still need to do your homework since there is more to traveling internationally than just having a valid passport. Make sure you have these things covered before you embark on your trip.

Banking	Call your bank and credit card companies. Tell them which countries you’ll visit and ask about fees and exchange rates. Ask if there is an emergency number that is not toll-free that you can call collect if you run into a problem.
Local Currency	Many European first-time travelers are surprised that some places don’t accept credit cards. Your bank can order euros for you before you leave, and if you find yourself short, the widely available ATMs throughout Europe usually give you a reasonable exchange rate. Keep in mind that your bank and the foreign bank may charge fees like currency conversion fees. Some credit cards specifically for international travel can be used in foreign ATMs with no exchange fee.
Insurance	Find out what, if anything, your medical and homeowners or renters insurance covers when you’re overseas. According to the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs, many foreign medical providers and hospitals don’t accept U.S. insurance plans and require cash payments upfront, even if your health policy covers you outside U.S. borders.
Phone	Without international calling, your U.S. mobile phone won’t work in Europe. Contact your provider to find out what options they offer that suit your needs. You most likely can buy a SIM that works in Europe for your phone, which avoids roaming fees.
Lists	Make a list of any valuable items you are taking on your trip, including the brand, model, and serial number. Take photos as well so you will have the information should something be stolen, and you need documentation for the police or your insurance company.
Restrictions	Check to see if there are any customs or import restrictions associated with your destination(s). Customs restrictions aren’t just for souvenirs; some countries restrict things like over-the-counter or prescription medications.

According to Turner, “Trip insurance is a MUST for all ages. It’s not just for cancellations; if you get sick or are injured out of the U.S., most insurances don’t cover outside U.S./network coverage.” One example is medical evacuation is $100k+. You need insurance for “just in case” situations, Turner says.

Health and Safety Considerations for Seniors

Health and safety is an important consideration for seniors traveling. The following are some recommendations to ensure your trip is a success:

Get a pre-travel health check. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to address any health concerns and ensure you are fit for travel. Be sure to evaluate your overall health and fitness levels, vaccinations, and precautions for any chronic conditions. You should also get a copy of your medical records and medications in case something happens.

Make a plan to manage medications. Managing your medications at home can be a task, but traveling even more so. Be sure to get an adequate supply of your medications before you leave. Carry your medications in their original containers in your carry-on bag to have easy access to them during travel and avoid issues at security checks. Make a detailed list of the names, dosages, and times of day you take your medications to help keep you on track during travel.

Don’t just plan for your prescription medications. “Over-the-counter things you MAY need could be hard to find,” Turner warns. Think of things that help you sleep and make you comfortable. “Lack of sleep is the enemy of travelers,” Turner notes.  

Get comfortable. It’s important to be as comfortable as possible when traveling. You’ll want to sleep on the place, so Turner recommends upgrading your seats to be more comfortable. She also emphasizes that seniors should pack comfortable footwear and a good travel bag that is comfortable to wear on tours. 

Prepare for safety. Before you embark, be sure you’re aware of the safety situation in each of your destinations, and while there, be aware of your surroundings. Never give your personal information and sensitive details to strangers. Carry your important documents with you, including your identification, emergency contact information, and passport. Keep an eye on your luggage and belongings. And finally, dress comfortably, drink plenty of fluids, and take breaks when you need to.

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What Can You Expect on a European Tour for Seniors?

The best European tours for seniors typically focus on comfort, accessibility, and enriching experiences. Here’s what you can generally expect:

Slower pace of travel. Senior tours offer a more relaxed itinerary with fewer early starts and late nights. You can expect ample free time for rest and leisure between scheduled activities when you book a slower-paced tour.

Comfortable accommodation and transportation. Accommodations are usually high-quality, often in centrally located hotels with elevators and accessible amenities. Transportation includes buses, trains, or river cruises designed for comfort, often with fewer stairs and easy access.

Guided tours with enriching experiences. Professional tour guides provide insightful commentary on history, culture, and local traditions, often focusing on engaging storytelling. Tours may focus on famous landmarks, cultural heritage, local cuisines, or arts and crafts.

Accessibility and senior-friendly services. Many tours reduce walking by docking or parking closer to attractions and offer assistance for travelers needing it. Some tours provide services like porterage (help with luggage), and others might include medical assistance options.

Socializing opportunities. These tours are usually group-based, allowing plenty of opportunities to meet and interact with fellow travelers of similar age, fostering a social and enjoyable atmosphere.

Optional excursions. Many tours offer optional excursions where seniors can decide how active they want to be. These might include wine tasting, light walking tours, or boat rides, with alternatives for less physically demanding activities.

Cultural and culinary experiences. Seniors can expect to enjoy authentic European food and wine, with some tours including cooking classes or tastings of local specialties. Cultural performances, such as concerts or folk dances, may also be part of the itinerary.

Flexible and customizable itineraries. Tour operators often allow for flexibility in terms of choosing which activities to join, ensuring that travelers can enjoy experiences suited to their preferences and energy levels.

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Our Search For The Best European Tour Companies for Seniors

To help you determine the best European tour companies for seniors, we used the following methodology:

1. We considered multiple European tours for seniors. We began our search with 15 well-known and lesser-known European tour companies. These companies offer tours and vacation packages across multiple European countries. Packages include customization options, varying travel types (bus, train, and cruise), and different food and housing options.
2. We checked for senior-specific criteria. We looked for companies with senior-specific knowledge on accessibility for those with mobility issues, easy access to activities like on-site dining, and assistance with things like luggage handling.  
3. We checked with experts. We analyzed European tour companies based on reviews from respected travel sites and writers. 
4. We listened to consumers. We narrowed our list by using companies that had 4 of 5 stars in online customer reviews. We found and removed companies with overwhelming amounts of negative reviews.
5. We put the best companies on your radar. Our final list of the six best European tours for seniors should help you get started with planning your European vacation.

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Frequently Asked Questions about European Tour Companies

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Concluding Thoughts on European Tours

Bottom Line: Guided tours for seniors are a fantastic way to explore Europe, meet new people, and keep your mind and body active. European tour companies offer a variety of tour types and paces that are slower and more accommodating for seniors.

As a senior traveler, be sure to choose a tour package that meets your budget and has an itinerary and pace that suits your preferences. Do your research and find a tour that meets your accessibility needs if you have mobility issues.

A little research and preparation ahead of time can help you find a tour that fits your budget while fulfilling your expectations.

Our Picks – Best European Tour Companies

• Unique international tours – Get Your Guide
• Great Destinations – Viking River Cruises
• Great Budget Tours – Grand European Travel
• Great Itineraries – Expat Explore
• Great Service – Globus
• Great Inclusive Offers – Tauck River Cruises