Europe

European Tours for Seniors

Europe is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and areas for travel. Road Scholar’s European tours bring you to all of this continent’s most famous cities and destinations, so you can learn about historical events like the French Revolution on a trip to Paris, understand the hard history of WWII in Germany, or enjoy the artwork of Italy. 

No matter your interests, our educational tours in Europe have something for everyone. Explore Europe with Road Scholar today by browsing our collection of adventures below.

Why Choose Europe

European tours for seniors offer something for everyone. The region’s rich history, attractions, landmarks, cuisine and geography create a diverse range of experiences that people with varying interests can enjoy. Here are some of the reasons why European tours are so popular:

• Accessibility: One of the major draws to Europe is accessibility. Throughout Europe, visitors will find an extensive and efficient transportation network, including high-speed trains and budget airlines, along with intricate bus systems that make travel between counties and cities easy. This is due in part to the Schengen Agreement, which allows for visa-free travel between many European countries, simplifying border crossings.
• Historical significance: For history buffs, Europe tours for seniors won’t disappoint. Europe is the site of many of the world’s most significant historical events, including the Renaissance, the Reformation, and both World Wars. From Normandy to Auschwitz, Berlin and Geneva, these are some of the many areas known for their historical importance. Additionally, many European regions have had a profound influence on Western civilization, with the philosophical, political and artistic developments shaping much of modern Western culture.
• Cuisine: Europe is a culinary paradise, with each country offering its own diverse cuisine and local dishes. Enjoy pasta and gelato in Italy, croissants and fine wine in France, tapas in Spain and sausages and beer in Germany on your next European senior tour. 

Types of European Tours Available

At Road Scholar, we have an expansive collection of European tours available for seniors and solo travelers. Whether you’re interested in the major cities of Western Europe like London and Paris or the Mediterranean waters in Southern Europe, we have experiential learning programs for every interest. Take a look:

• Southern European tours: Through our tours of Southern Europe, you can explore countries like Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Turkey and Southern France. Ancient ruins like the Colosseum in Rome, the Acropolis in Athens and the Duomo in Italy, offer insights into the past, while beaches like the Algarve in Portugal or those on the islands of Santorini and Mykonos in Greece offer rest and relaxation after long days of adventure.
• Western European tours: In Western Europe, you can immerse yourself in the cultures of France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, England, Austria and Switzerland. Top highlights on these European tours include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany and the canals of Amsterdam, along with world-class museums like the Louvre in Paris or the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.
• Eastern European tours: Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, and the Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are all destinations found on Eastern European tours. Through these programs, you can explore architectural marvels like Gothic and Baroque architecture in Prague and Krakow. Also enjoy the natural landscapes of the Danube River or the Carpathian Mountains. 

Preparing for Your Trip

Embarking on a trip to Europe is an exciting experience. However, getting ready can be daunting. At Road Scholar, our team helps take the stress out of preparing for an overseas trip to Europe by planning itineraries, organizing transportation and more. However, there are a few actions you’re responsible for to ensure your trip goes smoothly. Take a look at these tips before taking part in one of our guided Europe tours:

• Pack accordingly by keeping the weather and temperature in mind. Having a variety of garments, from long-sleeve shirts to shorts and overcoats, can help you stay comfortable throughout your trip.
• Talk with your doctor to ensure your health is suitable for your intended trip. At Road Scholar, you can filter programs based on activity level to find an adventure that works for you.
• Ensure all your documents are packed and secured, including your passport, relevant medical records, prescriptions, driver’s license, money and credit cards.
• There are several safety measures taken by Road Scholar to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, from pairing you with professional Group Leaders and providing travelers with information on required vaccine requirements for various destinations.

These are some of the top tips for preparing for a European adventure. Our team can provide additional information on how to prepare for the educational tour in Europe you choose.

Europe Sightseeing

At Road Scholar, our Europe sightseeing tours allow you to see some of the most famous cities and landmarks in the world. Take a look at our top tours of Europe below:

• Italy: One of the best European tours is a trip to Italy, where you can gaze at famous artwork from renowned painters like Michelangelo, da Vinci, and Raphael in world-class museums, go on riverboat cruises in Venice or bask under the Tuscan sun while exploring ancient ruins.
• Germany: As one of the world’s top cultural influences, Germany has plenty to offer. From city tours of Berlin and Munich to Bavarian villages and castles along the Rhine, there’s no better way to explore Europe than a cultural adventure in Germany.
• France: No European tour is complete without a trip to France. Wander the streets of the City of Love while gazing at the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower or learn about the hard efforts made on D-Day in Normandy. With plenty to see and tasty cuisine to eat, France is filled with excitement.
• Turkey: The country of Turkey has some of the richest history in the world, where you can learn about Ottoman Sultans, Byzantine art, and the history of medieval knights. 
• England: European sightseeing tours in England are a must. Through Road Scholar, you can go on hiking tours in England’s National Parks like Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors National Parks. You can also visit major metropolises like London, where you can check the time at Big Ben and view the city through a ride on The London Eye.
• Spain: If you’re looking for an educational tour in Western Europe, look no further than Spain. Spain has plenty to do and see, such as visiting the La Sagrada Familia Church in Barcelona or learning about the history, architecture, and customs of Sevilla.

Whether you’re looking for European tours for singles or family tours of Europe, we have educational tours for everyone.

Adventures in Europe with Road Scholar

Interested in group travel to Europe? Look no further than Road Scholar. We have European tours led by local experts who will teach you about the history, landscapes, and wildlife of your destination. By immersing yourself in the culture, you’ll be able to build a deeper connection with the people you meet and get a better understanding of the world around you. As you search for tours of Europe, make sure to review our essential tips for traveling to Europe to ensure a smooth and exciting adventure.

European Tours for Seniors FAQs

1. What are the benefits of choosing a guided tour over independent travel?

Guided European trips for seniors offer a range of benefits over independent travel. Some of the reasons to choose our expert-led trips to Europe for seniors include:

• Convenience: Guided tours take the stress out of travel by planning and booking transportation, lodging and activities for you, so you can enjoy the wonders of your destination without worrying about language barriers or navigating public transportation systems.
• Expert knowledge and insights: On a guided tour, you’ll be paired with an expert guide who provides historical, cultural and local insights you might miss when traveling on your own.
• Safety: Senior travel tours offer added security when exploring unfamiliar destinations, helping you avoid scams and ensure you’re in the right place at the right time.
• Companionship: Whether you’re traveling as a couple or solo, joining guided European vacations for seniors allows you to connect with fellow travelers to share conversations and forge lasting relationships beyond your trip.

2. What is the best time of year to book a European adventure?

At Road Scholar, we have adventures in Europe throughout the year. The best time of year for European tours for seniors depends on a few factors and personal preferences. For example, scheduling Europe group tours in slower months of fall, winter, and early spring is recommended  if you’re interested in exploring new areas with fewer crowds and lines. However, if you’re looking for warmer weather, a summer European sightseeing tour might match your preferences. Our team can walk you through each of our European tours for seniors to help you find the perfect program that meets your needs.

3. What are some must-see destinations in Europe?  

At Road Scholar, we have an expansive collection of senior European tours.  Whether you’re interested in a Central Europe educational tour or Eastern European tours, we have several programs available. Popular European destinations include France, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, Croatia, Georgia, Turkey, and beyond. No matter where you’re interested in learning, Road Scholar can find a Europe group tour for you to join.

If you’re not ready to pack your bags and board a flight but are still interested in learning about the various regions in Europe, you can explore Europe online through our online learning adventures. Our virtual tours consist of live lectures, discussions, and performances that immerse you in the culture and history of various destinations without having to leave your couch. You can also have meaningful conversations with your instructor and peers to better understand various topics.

4. Is a European tour suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, European trips for seniors are excellent for solo travelers eager to explore a new area of the world. Our guided programs allow you to enjoy the safety and security of traveling with a group while having the autonomy to travel alone during downtime. When it comes to budget travel in Europe for seniors traveling solo, we have an exciting selection of programs.

5. Can I extend my stay before or after the tour? 

Yes, at Road Scholar, we offer the ability to extend your trip either before or after your program. Depending on your trip, you can extend it by a few days or, in some cases, even longer. You can also book your own plans to extend your trip and take advantage of our special Road Scholar rates offered by our partner accommodations. 

Why Choose Road Scholar for Europe

Choosing Road Scholar for European tours for seniors is easy. Through our Europe tours, you’ll join a local expert guide who will unpack the region’s history, wildlife, culture and significance. You’ll also join a diverse cohort of likeminded learners eager to discover more about the world around them.

Find an adventure today and review our practical information to ensure a smooth expert-led tour of Europe.