The Mountains & Marvels of France, Spain & Portugal
20 day tour

  • Gavarnie
  • Alhambra
  • Seville
  • Porto
  • Virxe da Barca Sanctuary

Discover the secluded natural landscapes; awe-inspiring mountains; and enchanting waterfalls of France, Spain and Portugal.

Tour Highlights

Places you explore


Lourdes - Situated in the Pyrenean foothills, Lourdes is an important Catholic pilgrimage site and a town of rich cultural and natural heritage.

Gavarnie Waterfalls & the Pyrenees - Stare in awe at the beauty of the tallest waterfall in France in the majestic Cirque de Gavarnie.

La Rioja – The famously delicious wines here perfectly compliment the views of the Cantabrian Mountains.

Córdoba - This ancient Andalucían city will take your breath away with the marvels of La Mezquita and the Palace of the Christian Kings.

Granada with Alhambra and Sierra Nevada Mountains - Get mesmerised by the lavish palace built by the Moors and see the rugged mountains of the Sierra Nevada National Park.

Seville - Get dazzled by the history, spectacular architecture and magic of Flamenco in the city influenced by a number of civilisations.

Porto - A historic centre, charismatic locals, sumptuous food, and famous wine: no one can resist the charms of this UNESCO city

Cape Finisterre - Stare into the horizon on this beautiful cape once believed to be the end of the known world.

 

Your journey


Imagine being an ancient explorer.

You wander through dry, stone mountains and stumble upon a waterfall with a 422m drop. You find a palace and behold intricate carvings that resemble nothing you’ve ever seen before. And you find a green valley packed with monks making the sweetest wines you ever tasted.

It must have been exciting.

And although you can never recreate the real thing, on this journey, you do the next best thing and discover the timeless wonders of France, Spain, and Portugal.

You admire the natural sights of the Peneda-Gerês National Park and the Pyrenees, you explore the grand cities of Granada and Salamanca, and you indulge your senses in the flavours and culture of rustic villages.

Harness your inner adventurer on this expedition to the Iberian Peninsula.

 

Tour Details

Starts
Check-in closes at 23:45 (tour departs at ) - ,
Finishes (approx.)
- ,
Madrid
Luggage
You're restricted to kg (0lbs) of luggage per person. This should be one piece of luggage similar to an airline carry-on bag (approximately 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) and a small bag for onboard personal items.
Discounts
  • Children between 5 and 15 (unfortunately, we don't carry children under 5 years old)
Important information
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walks up to beautiful views
  • Your holiday’s more fun when you protect yourself from the sun
  • This journey combines three of our tours and a free day in Madrid and Lisbon. This means you swap your bus and guide during the journey.
  • Secure your tour with 10% deposit. See FAQs for more details.
Tour inclusions
  • Transport in a luxury mini-coach
  • Air conditioning as standard
  • The stories and services of an English-speaking guide and driver
  • 19 nights in a three-star hotel with continental breakfast
Tour exclusions
  • Entry fees to visitor attractions
  • A few European destinations charge tourist taxes. These funds help them keep the locations clean, safe, and beautiful. You usually pay these at the accommodation suppliers, and cost between 1€ and 5€ per night.

Itinerary

Day 1

  • Admire a palette of ancient architecture and leafy avenues in Aix-en-Provence
  • Enjoy the serenity of Fontfroide Abbey

You say ‘au revoir’ to glamorous Nice and head west towards Aix-en-Provence.This classy city is full of lively streets, elegant fountains and leafy squares. You can delve into the winding streets and visit local cafés or walk in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne and follow a special pedestrian route through the city.

Continue your journey south into the heart of the Regional Natural Park of Narbonne.This peaceful area is a haven for Fontfroide Abbey which held considerable power during the Middle Ages. Enjoy the tranquillity of this place and breathe in the fresh air before you travel to the walled city of Carcassonne, your base for the night.

Day 2

  • Traverse the medieval monuments of Carcassonne
  • Delve into humanity’s prehistoric past in the Mas d’Azil Cave

Wake up, enjoy your breakfast, and start exploring this fascinating medieval city. Carcassonne has more stone towers, spiky turrets, and zigzag battlements than you can shake a sword at. So, it will come as no surprise it boasts a UNESCO World Heritage title.

All this sightseeing must have worked up your appetite, so we travel to a small town on the edge of the Pyrenees for lunch. After you’ve enjoyed the local specialities, we head deeper into the Midi-Pyrénées.

Next, instead of travelling up the mountains, you descend to the fascinating underground world of The Mas d’Azil Cave. The immensity of the grotto (the only one in Europe you can drive through) and the rich discoveries will leave you speechless.

In the early evening, you arrive in Lourdes, a small Pyrenean town; a spiritual centre and your home for two nights.

Day 3

  • Explore the spiritual beauty of Lourdes, the most visited pilgrimage shrine in the Christian world
  • Choose to go for a hike to the hidden waterfall of Cirque de Gavarnie

Today, it’s up to you how you spend your time.

You can stay in Lourdes and discover the sites at your own pace. There’s the soaring sanctuary of Notre Dame de Lourdes, a nearby castle, and a funicular ride to the top of Pic du Jer for a great view of the Pyrenees.

Alternatively, you can spend the morning on tour exploring the village of Gavarnie deep in the Pyrenees.

And if you feel the wilderness calls you, why not spend the whole day in the mountains and go on a hike to Cirque de Gavarnie? The effort is worth it: this majestic amphitheatre-like valley with tumbling waterfalls will reward you with one of the Pyrenees’ most stunning vistas.

Whichever option you choose, you return to Lourdes and enjoy the local atmosphere in the afternoon.

Day 4

  • Journey through the peaks and valleys of the Pyrenees
  • Discover one of the most enchanting monuments in Navarre, Leyre Monastery

It’s time to travel through the impressive Pyrenean mountain passes into Spain. You venture through this massive national park and descend into Lanuza, a small town boasting spectacular views. Grab a coffee and continue your mountain crossing to Jaca.

This Spanish town is nicknamed ‘Pearl of the Pyrenees’ and has a captivating history. It was founded by the Romans, conquered by the Moors, and taken over again by the Christians. Ponder over the bravery of the locals as you explore the city and savour your lunch.

Next, you head west to the Sea of the Pyrenees, Yesa Reservoir and the peaceful Leyre Monastery. Built on a mountain range overlooking the reservoir, this serene place has been a refuge for the ancient monarchs and bishops of Navarre.

After the afternoon’s adventures, you head to La Rioja region, the wine connoisseur’s heaven, to spend two nights in Haro.

Day 5

  • Soak up the famous wines of La Rioja region
  • Savour the flavours and picturesque Nature Parks of the Basque Country

You wake up in a town surrounded by the vineyards of La Rioja. This is a fantastic base for exploring this rich region where wine has been cultivated since Roman times.

In the morning, you travel through mountains and forests of Montes Obarenes Nature Park to a hilltop town of Frías. This tiny medieval city is adorned with a ruined castle that will make you stare in wonder.laxing walk to Tobera waterfall and have a comfort break in the nearby Frías.

Next, you jump over to the Basque Country. Here you drive through Sobrón Gorge and the River Ebro, which nurtures the precious vineyards of La Rioja.

You have a chance to call on a local bodega where you can savour the aromas and flavours of this beverage. You may also try a superb food and wine pairing to complete your experience.

Now you know the local wine, uncover the culture and history of this drink in Vivanco Wine Museum in Briones. After discovering the long-lasting relationship between human and wine, you return to Haro where you can spend your evening discovering gastronomic delights.

Day 6

  • Learn the terrific tales of the folk hero El Cid while aside his famous tomb
  • Appreciate ancient Roman engineering at the grand Aqueduct of Segovia

Say farewell to La Rioja and the vineyards because it’s time to travel to Burgos. This proud city, situated on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route, is famous for its Gothic cathedral looming over the skyline. Marvel at this jewel of Spanish architecture and visit the tomb of Burgos’ favourite and most roguish son, El Cid.

You then travel through the vast plains of Castile and León and arrive in Segovia. This place still has the spirit of an old Spanish city and is steeped in history.

Start uncovering the city’s rich heritage by gazing in awe at the perfectly engineered Roman aqueduct now standing in the vibrant centre. Then wander the cobbled streets and get dazzled by Alcázar de Segovia. With soaring towers and turrets topped with slate witches' hats, this castle looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale. So much so it supposedly inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland.

Drink in the last panoramas of this magnificent city and travel south where the grand metropolis of Madrid awaits you in the evening.

Day 7

  • Marvel at the opulence of the Royal Palace in Madrid
  • Try tapas in one of the La Latina district’s local bars

You have a free day in the golden metropolis of Madrid and can decide how you want to spend it. Packed with tapas bars, world-renowned art, and amazing architecture; this city really knows how to live.

To get around town, you can use Madrid’s fantastic public transport or jump on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus.

Start your day by trying delicious pan tumaka; crusty bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil.

You’re really spoilt for choice here because no two districts are the same.

You can begin with the oldest part of Madrid, home to the lavish Royal Palace. It boasts a staggering 3,418 rooms decorated with the paintings by world-renowned artists.

After admiring the splendour of the Royal Family’s official residence, you can stroll around the city’s grand plazas. The portico-lined square of Plaza Mayor used to be the centre of Old Madrid. And Puerta del Sol, is where the symbol of Madrid; The Bear and the Madroño Tree resides.

Next, fuel your batteries in one of their many restaurants before an exciting afternoon. For the art lovers; there’s Prado Museum and other exhibitions lined with Spanish, Italian and Flemish masterpieces. For the nature lovers; there’s El Retiro Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city where you can row a boat.

And in the evening head to La Latina; the city’s top district for tapas, mojitos, and terraces. But don’t get carried away by the city’s energy too much, because tomorrow you join the next leg of your tour.

Day 8

  • Uncover the fusion of cultures that shaped Toledo, the former capital of Spain
  • Travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the backdrop for Don Quixote’s adventures

You leave the heart of Spain and head south to the former capital of the country, Toledo.

Sitting atop a hill and overlooking the Tajo River, this city used to be known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’. To get the real feel of the place, wander through the cobbled streets and try to spot the Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues and Gothic cathedrals. Make sure to sample the local specialities while you admire this amazing architectural ensemble.

You travel through Castilla-La Mancha, the setting for the adventures of the literary hero Don Quixote. Next, you stop on the way through the Despeñaperros Natural Park, the gateway to Andalucía.

Córdoba, your home for the night, welcomes you with its bustling squares and delightful architecture.

Day 9

  • Get dazzled by the gems of Moorish architecture in Córdoba
  • Learn about olive-making and take in views of endless olive groves

In the morning, you have free time to explore the city.

Once the heart of the western Islamic empire, Córdoba feels exotic and sophisticated.

Here, you have time to admire the countless rows of decorated arches in the serene interior of La Mezquita, the most spectacular mosque constructed by the Moors in Spain. Or wander through the lush gardens of Alcázar de Los Reyes Cristianos, the ‘Palace of the Christian Kings’.

Next, you travel through the rolling hills blanketed with the silvery-grey-green leaves of olive trees. It’s a sign you’ve entered the oil-producing province of Jaén. You have a chance to learn about the production of Spain’s ‘liquid gold’ and enjoy lunch.

Then, you continue south and visit the ruined hilltop fortress of Fortaleza de la Mota before you arrive in Granada early evening. You stay for two nights.

Day 10

  • Set your sights on the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the inspiration for a great Spanish poet
  • Become entranced by the ornamentation of the Alhambra Palace

You wake up in a city adorned with the most sensual palace of Europe, Alhambra.

The day is yours, so you can decide how you want to spend your time in this dazzling location.

In the morning, you can take a half day tour and follow in the footsteps of Federico Garcia Lorca. National Park. He was a poet and a theatre director who drew his inspiration from Spanish folklore.

If you choose this half day trip, you first head to Huerta de San Vincente and discover the 20th-century villa where the poet wrote many of his best works.

Then, delve into the rugged landscapes of the Cumbres Verdes mountains on the forefront of the Sierra Nevada. Breathe in the mountain air and admire the contrast between lush green valleys and arid badlands.

You leave the dramatic peaks behind and continue your journey to Valderrubio. Lorca spent his childhood here and gathered inspiration from the town’s people, customs, and views.

After a morning filled with poetry and vistas, you return to Granada at lunchtime. Try local delicacies and decide how you want to spend the rest of your afternoon.

Alternatively, you can spend the whole day discovering the fusion of Arabic and Christian cultures in Granada. From the Great Bazaar to the Granada Cathedral, this city will carry you away with its energy.

And let’s not forget, there’s the paradigm of Moorish architecture, the Alhambra. When you look at it, you feel like you’ve been transported to the tales of 1,001 Nights. Originally a fortress and then a palace, this UNESCO World Heritage site will seize your imagination.

You spend tonight in Granada. Use this time to discover tapas restaurants and more of the culinary delights.

Day 11

  • Discover the charm of Ronda, the most stunning of the pueblo blancos
  • Delve into a maze of cobbled streets in Arcos de la Frontera

Today is all about exploring the other faces of Andalucía; the beautiful wilderness and iconic pueblos blancos.

Your adventure takes you west through the landscapes of Malaga’s ‘Lake District’ before you reach Ronda. Precariously clinging to a steep cliff of the El Tajo Gorge, this commune captures your imagination with its literary connections and history full of outlaws. Stroll along the city walls, explore picturesque plazas, and enjoy your lunch before the next pueblo blanco. Here, you have time to enjoy a walk and take in views of the lake and the spectacular canyon.

You leave the rural part of the region and travel past Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park to Arcos de la Frontera. This stunning white town has it all: dramatic clifftop location, spectacular vistas, and an old town with a maze of beautiful buildings and cobbled streets.

Cast the last glance over the Andalusian countryside and start your journey to Seville, your home for two nights.

Day 12

  • Marvel at the allure of the palace of Real Alcázar in Seville
  • Soak up the grandeur as you stroll through the Plaza de España
  • Try the finest sherry in Jerez de la Frontera

Seville signifies the essence of Spain. This city will seduce you with its rich Moorish heritage, the orange trees, tapas and passionate flamenco.

Today it’s up to you to decide how to spend the day.

You can dedicate your time to discover the best gems of the city. Lose yourself in one of the 80 chapels in the enormous Seville Cathedral or take in views of the city from La Giralda, the bell-tower which used to be a minaret. Then, delve into the exotic gardens of the palace of Real Alcázar and marvel at its dream patios, opulent domes and intricate carvings.

Alternatively, you can join our half day tour in the morning and travel to Jerez de la Frontera. This elegant town is the heartland of sherry and Spanish brandy. It’s also home to Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, famous for its specially-trained horses that star in incredible performances. Sample some sherry or wine in one of the local bars and soak up the atmosphere before you return to Seville for lunchtime.

Whichever option you choose, spend the afternoon strolling through the shaded arches of the grand Plaza de España and enjoy the pulse of Seville. Warning: with the hypnotic Flamenco performances, delicious tapas and buzzing bars, this city can keep you entertained till the small hours.

Day 13

  • Soak up the sun in Huelva on Costa de la Luz
  • Wander through Tavira, one of the most charming towns of the Algarve

Say farewell to Seville and enjoy the last glimpses of the Andalusian countryside as you travel west towards Costa de la Luz. It translates into ‘the Coast of Light’, this refers to the bright sunlight and golden sandy beaches.

You stop in the seaside city of Huelva, where Christopher Columbus planned his trip to find a western sea route to China and India.

Next, you cross the Portuguese border and stop at Tavira in the Algarve. Set on the River Gilão, this town exhumes an irresistible charm and makes you want to discover its hidden corners. Wander through the cobblestone streets, cross an old Roman bridge and try Portuguese cuisine for the first time.

Take in the last views of the Algarve and journey north where the laid-back and charming Lisbon awaits you in the evening.

Day 14

  • Catch a ride on the iconic 28 tram in the Alfama district
  • Get mesmerised by soul-stirring fado music

Bom dia! You have a free day to explore Lisbon; a European capital boasting a wonderful waterfront location, a balmy climate, and loads of charm.

This inspiring and lively place was shaped by four cultures, colonial riches, a catastrophic earthquake, and a period of restoration.

Start the day delving into the oldest part of the city; the Alfama district. Here, you can visit the iconic São Jorge Castle, an ancient Moorish fortification that rises up from a hill; stop at a stunning viewpoint to drink in the coastal panoramas; and savour delicious Portuguese specialities.

If Lisbon’s hilly terrain is a bit too much to brace after a delicious meal, jump on the legendary yellow tram 28 or get on a guided hop on hop off bus.

In the afternoon, head to the charming district of Belém. It used to be the docs and shipyards’ district. And it was here Vasco da Gama sailed on his voyage to reach India. Stroll along the promenade, cast your eyes on the mighty Tagus River, and admire the Belém Tower.

Continue your walk to the Monument to the Discoveries and ponder over the Portuguese Age of Discoveries and what impact it had on the world as you know it. And if you want some peace, pop into the shady cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery located nearby. This stunning religious building was erected to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from India and is where his body is buried.

Spend your evening enjoying delectable food and wine accompanied by the haunting Fado music in the Alfama or Bairro Alto district. And don’t forget that tomorrow is the next leg of your tour.

Day 15

  • Marvel at the Moorish architecture in the town of Óbidos
  • Learn about the thinkers of the past in one of the oldest universities in the world in Coimbra

You say ‘bom dia’ to your guide and fellow travellers, leave the coastal capital city of Lisbon, and travel the short distance to Óbidos.

This quaint walled town has wealth of wonders for you to discover. You can study the sturdy walls of their Moorish Castle; amble through the little cobbled shopping lanes; or combine two of your favourite guilty pleasures in a drink of Ginjinha d’Óbidos, a sweet liqueur served in a chocolate cup.

Back on the road, you venture further north to Coimbra. This former Portuguese capital is famous for being the home of one of the oldest universities in the world. You have time here to explore the town’s churches and history and eat some of the local food for lunch.

After you’ve soaked up the history, it’s time to head to Aveiro. You feel like you’ve been teleported into little Venice in this town that’s lined with canals and art-nouveau architecture.

Your final stop of the day is in Porto, your home for the next two nights. It’s been a busy day, but hopefully you’re not too tired to walk to a sunset spot in this many-tiered town.

Day 16

  • Peruse through shops and restaurants of Porto’s cobbled lanes
  • Marvel at the views of the terraced vineyards on an optional boat cruise up the Douro River

Today, you have an important decision to make.

Do you lounge around and take in the cathedrals, cellars, and cuisine of beautiful Porto? Or do you hop on the mini-coach with us and venture through the Douro Valley?

Lucky for you, there’s no wrong option.

If you join our half day tour, you begin with a traditional rabelo boat cruise down the Douro Valley This is a chance to ogle at the famous wine producing hills of the region from a new angle. Once you’re back on dry land, you travel to Pinhão, a small port-producing town surrounded by vineyards. Savour this delicious tipple with your lunch and enjoy the stunning vistas before you return to Porto mid-afternoon.

The rest of the day is yours to discover more of the city and indulge in its wines and flavours in your own style. And if you’re a fan of live music, don’t miss out on a performance of Fado, Portugal’s emotionally stirring traditional music.

Day 17

  • Rejuvenate your senses in the natural landscapes of Portugal’s peaceful national park
  • Cross the border into Northern Spain

Your last few days have been packed with bustling towns and boozy flavours. So now it’s time to refresh your senses with a taste of the great outdoors.

You head to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, the only national park in Portugal. You spend the whole morning here enjoying views of lakes, mountains, and waterfalls before travelling to the tiny town of Soajo.

This town not only boasts beautiful views, it’s also one of the most rustic villages you’ll have ever laid your eyes upon. You have time here to take a look at their famous 17th-century granite granaries and grab lunch.

And now, it’s over the border and into Spain. You arrive in Santiago de Compostela with enough time to admire the huge cathedral that’s famously built over the remains of St. James, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ.

Day 18

  • Explore the architecture, atmosphere, and history of Santiago de Compostela
  • Journey to Cape Finisterre, the furthermost edge of ancient Europe

Today, you can relax and enjoy the sights of Santiago de Compostela at your own pace or come on a half-day adventure with us to the Costa da Morte, ‘Coast of Death’.

And no, this isn’t a shoreline infested with pirates and cannibals, it’s a place that was once notorious for shipwrecks.

If you join our trip to the coastline, you start the day by going to Ézaro waterfall. Here, you go for a small walk to take in the views of a rare wonder - the Ézaro River tumbling straight into the sea.

After you’ve enjoyed the waterfall, we travel to the ‘End of the World’ at Cape Finisterre. Ancient civilisations believed this was the end of the earth. You have time here to admire the lighthouse and look out over the wild Atlantic Ocean.

Your next stop is in Muxía. This lovely, historic harbour town is the perfect spot to sample the fresh seafood that this region is famous for and watch the ships set off to sea.

You arrive back in Santiago de Compostela in the afternoon. The evening is yours to soak up the atmosphere of the city, try Galician specialities, and explore more historical treasures and hidden gems.

Day 19

  • Roam upon the ramparts of the ancient Romans in Lugo
  • Survey the other-worldly landscapes that were created by the Roman gold excavating technique, ruina montium (wrecking of mountains)

Your first stop of the day is in Lugo. This town has a lot to be proud of. They have the only fully intact Roman city walls in the world, a stunning cathedral, and oodles of charm. You have free time here to choose what you visit.

You continue to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Romans and travel to Las Médulas. Strange red pinnacles and holes in the mountains make this landscape look and feel otherworldly. The Romans created what you see before you by boring into the earth in their quest for gold.

You explore this area and enjoy your lunch before continuing the journey to Salamanca for your overnight stay.This mesmerising city is adorned with the riches of the Spanish Golden Age and boasts a great culinary scene.

Day 20

  • Admire the artistic achievements of the Spanish Golden Age in Salamanca
  • Become envious of the lifestyle of kings in the palace of El Escorial

You have time in the morning to explore the cathedral, university, and pretty plazas of Salamanca before we head off. Or you can have a lie-in if you decided to enjoy the famous nightlife a little too much the night before.

Grab early lunch and cast the last glance at the stunning architecture of the city before we head off. You continue the journey through the vast plains of the Castile and León region with various photo stops on the way.

Then, there’s the masterpiece of architecture, El Escorial. This is one of the most remarkable historical buildings in all of Spain. The huge structure was built by king Philip II and has functioned as a monastery, basilica, royal palace, pantheon, library, museum, university, school and hospital.

After you’ve learned about the riches of Spain, we take you to Madrid in the evening.

Accommodation

Where does this tour stay overnight?

You stay one night in Carcassonne, two nights in Lourdes, two nights in Haro, two nights in Madrid, one night in Córdoba, two nights in Granada, two nights in Seville, two nights in Lisbon, two nights in Porto, two nights in Santiago de Compostela, and one night in Salamanca.


To get more information about your accommodation, please contact our friendly team 3 weeks prior to departure.


How does the accommodation work?

A good night’s sleep is often needed for a good day of travel.

So, we’ve hand-picked three to four-star hotels in remote coastal villages, bustling towns, and mountain valleys.

Your accommodation is included in the tour price; and when you book your trip, you can choose whether you want double rooms, twin rooms, or single rooms.

In Paris, Nice, Madrid, Lisbon, and Rome, you stay at a hotel by the airport. These have excellent transport connections all across the city and let us avoid contributing to central traffic congestion.


Are there any extra accommodation costs?

The price you see is for all your tour's accommodation and for the tour itself. This figure is based on shared accommodation. When you're booking your tour and select a single room, an additional single room supplement will be added to the price.

FAQs

Do I need a visa to take this tour?

You may need a Schengen Visa to travel throughout Europe. Check the official tourism website of the country you’re visiting for up-to-date and reliable information. Travel between countries is easy because there are no passport checks at the borders.


Do I need to pay all at once?

Our Europe Tours have flexible payment options to help you budget for your dream holiday.

If you book more than three months before your tour departs, you can reserve your trip with a deposit of 10% or more. The full payment is required three months before your departure.

Call us on +44 (0) 131 226 3133 or email tours@rabbies.com to pay a deposit, discuss more payment options, or let us know of any changes to your travel arrangements.


Are the tours suitable for people with mobility issues?

Most people can comfortably enjoy our tours, but it's worth bearing in mind that we often include optional short walks in scenic locations. Please also be aware that many of the old European towns are built on steep hills with cobbled lanes, and you may have to carry your own luggage at times.

So that we can ensure you're comfortable travelling with us, please let us know about any special requirements or needs at the time of booking. If you have any more questions, simply email tours@rabbies.com .


Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?

Europe's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure and avoid contributing to congestion issues, we only start our trips from the airport hotel specified in your departure information.

Our friendly team will send you more information about your departure location closer to your departure date.


When should I get to the departure point?

Arrive at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before your departure time. Unfortunately, we’re unable to wait for you if you’re late due to vehicle restrictions. But depending on your situation, we may be able to help you catch up with your tour.


What are your cancellation policies?

We have a cancellation period of 42 days for our Europe tours. If you cancel your trip before this period, we give you a full refund minus a 10% admin charge. If you cancel inside this timeframe, you’re liable for the cost of the tour package.

We understand how disappointing it is when you have to cancel a trip with us, so please contact our friendly team who will try their best to resell your ticket and refund you.

Click here to view full terms and conditions.


What is a guaranteed departure?

It's simple: you book, you go. This means we'll never cancel your tour because of a minimum numbers policy.


What can I expect?

Your friendly driver and guide are passionate about the places they visit and know all the local gossip. This means your tour itinerary can change a little due festivities, attraction opening hour changes, and spontaneous photo opportunities.


Can I pre-book a specific seat?

Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable mini-coaches have huge windows, So you always get a good view.


Are there toilets on the bus?

We like to keep our coaches small, nimble, and odour free. This means we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you frequently stop in local towns and villages for comfort breaks.



Do you take children on your tours?

Unfortunately, we’re unable to have children under the age of five on our Europe tours.

You can ask us about the tours we recommend for younger children. And if your child is less than 1.35m tall, you should let us know, so we can provide them with a suitable booster seat.


How much time do I get off the bus?

We want you to enjoy your trip to Europe. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of stops to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.


Why do you exclude visitor attractions?

We exclude visitor attractions in your tour price because it lets you travel your way. It means you can pamper yourself with a luxury lunch or skip an attraction whenever you feel like it.


Do we need to bring our own lunch?

You don't need to pack or bring along food on the mini-coach. We stop in small European towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.


What should I do if I have too much luggage?

It’s more enjoyable to travel with light luggage. You can take less by cleaning clothes along the way. Most hotels provide affordable laundry service.

But if you're travelling with more than 20kg, don't worry! There are left luggage facilities close to all our departure points, and courier companies who could ship your excess luggage on to your chosen destination. Our team are happy to help if you need any suggestions or recommendations.


Should I tip the driver and the guide?

Let's be honest, our drivers and guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.


What about travel insurance?

We highly recommend you take out travel insurance, so you can enjoy a stress-free journey.


What is ABTOT?

You're protected by ABTOT when you choose to let us book your accommodation on a multi-day tour. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we run into any issues. Read our terms and conditions for more information.

Our packages are covered by the Package Travel Regulations. For full details of your key rights please click here.


I have more questions, who can help me?

If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email tours@rabbies.com, or check out our full FAQs.

Travel the local way on small group tours of 16 people or fewer

You'll have a guaranteed experience, or your money back

Guaranteed departures: you book, you go

Our eco-friendly tours support local communities