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The original grand tour reimagined

People in the 17th and 18th centuries certainly knew how to travel. The term ‘grand tour’ originally referred to trips undertaken by the British nobility and wealthy landed gentry when they came of age. They would head across the continent in search of cultural enlightenment visiting galleries, museums and ancient ruins and attending concerts and social engagements.

Considered by many to be a rite of passage, these epic trips could last between several months and a few years. While holiday allowances today tend not to allow for quite such lengthy tours, we can put together a trip that is no less grand and just as indulgent.

With much of Europe connected by land borders and the rest accessible by boat rides or short flights, Europe is the perfect place for an epic voyage. You can be drifting along Venice’s Grand Canal one day, then hiking through the mountains of Slovenia the next.

For those after a dose of history and culture, the ruins of ancient Greece and Italy await, while art lovers can get lost in Paris‘ museums and galleries and wander through the architectural gems that are scattered all across Spain. Outdoor lovers will relish the opportunity to explore the mountains and spas of Switzerland, the Norwegian Fjords and the coastline of Portugal and when it comes to relaxing, the Greek and Croatian islands are hard to beat.

Every day in Europe brings a different adventure, and we can tailor-make your trip to perfectly suit your interests, whether it’s a short week-long adventure or longer, more in-depth itinerary spanning a few months.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our specialists

Eat well in Rome, Naples and Florence

Taste some of Italy’s best dishes in Rome, Naples and Florence.

Island-hop around Greece

Island hop around some of Greece‘s most stunning islands.

Ride a bike through Amsterdam

Do as the Dutch do and explore Amsterdam by bike.

Take afternoon tea in London

Experience afternoon tea in some of London‘s most quintessential locations.

Drink wine in Champagne, the Douro and Bordeaux

Enjoy some of Europe’s best wine in Champagne, The Douro Valley and Bordeaux.

Walk the capitals: Dublin, Berlin, Lisbon and Madrid

Explore some of the continent’s most vibrant capitals, including Dublin, Berlin, Lisbon and Madrid.

A word from one of our experts

With such diverse scenery, culture, food and experiences, Europe is the perfect playground for a grand tour. It's home to some of the best beaches for moments of relaxation, exciting cities full of rich history and culture, and some of the best food and drink in the world. No two trips could ever be the same, but one thing is for sure with any trip to Europe - you'll make memories to last a lifetime.

Melania Siriu Senior Travel Designer

Luxury accommodation in Europe

There are many incredible places to stay in Europe. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Why book with Jacada?

  • Personalised design

    We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

  • Authentic experiences

    Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

  • Responsible travel

    Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our European example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your European grand tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Start Planning

When to visit

Europe has such a diverse landscape that it’s hard to pick one time of year to visit. Each destination has a different charm during different seasons, but one thing is for sure – you’ll be delighted no matter when you visit. Spain and Italy are fantastic over the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Head to Greece from April to June and September to October to escape the intense heat of mid-summer. The weather in Portugal is ideally suited to outdoor activities from May to June and in September. While France offers sunny weather from June to August and then milder temperatures until October. Norway’s short summer from June to August offers you the longest and warmest days but if you are looking for winter activities and the northern lights, aim for March.

Spring

March–May

Summer sun

June–August

Winter snow

October–March

The Best Time to Travel to Europe

Plan your grand tour to Europe

Whatever you want from your tailor-made European grand tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.

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