Europe is ready to open its sun-dappled arms to overseas visitors. After a long pause, successful vaccine programs and warmer weather mean large parts of Europe are anticipating a much more open summer.  Turn your travels into gold with a luxury guided vacation to explore more of the world.

With some countries expecting to invite guests as early as June, and a Covid certificate system allowing free movement around the European bloc for those fully vaccinated, recovered from infection, or in possession of a recent negative test, the only question left to ask is “where can I travel to now?”

Spain & Portugal

Sweeping golden beaches, picturesque historic towns, and lush green hills have made the Iberian Peninsula a must-visit summer destination since travel began. Explore all the region has to offer, from the artistic and gastronomic delights of Barcelona to the castles and cathedrals of Lisbon, when you journey across Spain & Portugal in Style

Wander through UNESCO World Heritage architecture amidst the winding streets of historic towns. Sip cocktails on a rooftop perch over Seville or experience Michelin star dining in Madrid.  There is no better way to reintroduce yourself to the delights of a European summer.

Croatia and Montenegro

A long-hidden gem, Croatia and the Adriatic coast host charming ancient towns amongst breathtaking countryside, all beside the sparkling blue Adriatic Sea. Roam the pristine streets of Dubrovnik Old Town and dive into the vibrant and diverse capital of Zagreb when you explore Captivating Croatia and Montenegro.

Sample oysters fresh from their beds in Ston at the midpoint of your journey. Join your captain for an unforgettable experience on the floating oyster beds of the Adriatic. Enjoy a chilled local wine as you taste the marine delicacies straight from the sea.

France

Food, fashion, art, and elegant landscapes are the order of the day when you take the French Vogue luxury tour.

Step through the same streets as Van Gogh when you visit Arles and witness the wild beauty of Provence which inspired him to paint hundreds of masterpieces. Indulge in a boutique foodie tour of Paris and let a local expert serve up temptation in the city’s famous pâtisseries, boulangeries, and chocolatiers. Take time to explore the largest privately-owned château in France on a VIP visit to Vaux-Le-Vicomte and its magnificent floral gardens.

Italy

Italy is known for rolling sunlit vistas and hearty cuisine. Luxury Gold’s Ultimate Italy tour invites you to indulge in both as you explore the rich delights of this spectacular destination.

Visit majestic Rome where, as a Luxury Gold guest, you will be granted exclusive VIP access to the famous Sistine Chapel before its doors open for the day, then skip the line to the ancient Colosseum before being led to hidden sites by a genial local host.

Later, relax as you sip refreshing lemon granita in Capri, before wandering the landscaped gardens of Caesar Augustus to view the legendary Faraglioni Rocks. You can work up an appetite for your Michelin-star lunch as you take in the sweeping views.

Switzerland

It’s the Alps that come to mind when we think of Switzerland, but this stunning country is so much more, especially in the summer. When you journey with Luxury Gold you will discover all the sights and tastes of Majestic Switzerland.

Glamorous St. Moritz offers bright, sunny days and awe-inspiring mountain scenery. It’s also a place of nature, as you take a gentle hike through the surrounding hills you may see marmots, red deer, or even the majestic golden eagle. After experiencing the Alps up close aboard the world-famous Glacier Express, look out over Lake Geneva from the luxury Hotel d’Angleterre, that rests elegantly on the bank, where you will stay for two nights.

Ireland

The stories and natural beauty of the Emerald Isle will remain with you long after you leave its shores, and Luxury Gold’s Ultimate Ireland tour will fill you to the brim with both.

Uncover the wonders of man and nature when you follow a morning at Belfast’s Titanic Museum with a private ranger tour of the geological wonder that is Giant’s Causeway. Pull the perfect pint of Guinness in a vibrant Dublin pub and watch the city come alive as you take in a hearty Irish meal. Kiss the Blarney Stone and learn Irish dancing before taking the fresh country air into your lungs as you wander the rugged countryside of Limerick.

Travel Requirements Guide

With the landscape constantly changing, it can be easy to get lost in what the requirements are for travel from and to any part of the world. With that in mind, Luxury Gold are offering a handy Sherpa guide where you can quickly check the up-to-date requirements for each country open for travel now.

Book a Luxury European Tour this Summer

Luxury Gold have combined specially curated itineraries and carefully chosen luxury accommodations to enrich your vacation. With VIP Experiences led by knowledgeable Local Experts, we ensure that you experience more than just the highlights of every destination you visit. Summer 2021 is set to be a new era for luxury travel in Europe and you can explore this magnificent and fascinating continent on any of our exciting range of luxury guided tours.

Although Europe is an attractive destination any time of year, there are parts of it that truly come alive in summer. From ideal temperatures to dine outdoors amid the vines to enjoying the gentle ocean breeze as you watch a local shuck oysters by the Adriatic, the allure of these destinations is magnified by the season.

The time is ripe to get out and explore again. If you’re keen to enjoy more sustainable travel, then a guided luxury tour that takes in a combination of the best loved sights with lesser-known gems may be ideal. Luxury Gold is currently offering fantastic savings on last minute getaways for Summer 2021 so why not plan your next adventure?

France

Paris, France

The leafy boulevards of Paris and olive groves of Provence both benefit from the balmy summer sun. Join Luxury Gold for the French Vogue Tour and appreciate the fine wines, food and historic chateaux throughout this romantic land.

A VIP visit to Château De Vaux-Le-Vicomte, the largest privately owned château in the country, occurs on day two of your French journey. 40 hectares of elegantly-designed gardens are a pleasure to explore on a summer’s day. Patterned flowerbeds, sculpted statues and well-placed fountains provide fantastic photo opportunities, while those with an eye for design can admire the baroque architecture of the grand house.

One of the most enjoyable summer excursions in Paris is a foodie tour. Your Local Expert leads you to a variety of patisseries, boulangeries, chocolatiers, cafés and tiny cheese shops that are only known to Parisiens, so you can revel in the culinary delights of the city. Meet passionate bakers and chefs who share their enthusiasm for the gourmet and understand why Paris is famous for its food.

France is full of local and farmers markets, particularly in the smaller towns, such as St Remy de Provence. Stroll through the colorful stalls, soaking up the enticing aromas and perhaps picking up a freshly baked snack or a handmade souvenir?

Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh in Arles, where the artist painted over 200 masterpieces. See his inspiration in the sunbaked houses and pretty plant-lined streets. Van Gogh spent over 14 months in this Provencal city, seeking the warmth and color away from Paris. Your Local Expert will take you along the Rhône River and to the well-preserved Arles amphitheatre, once the site of great chariot spectacles.

When touring France in summer, one of the great highlights is catching a glimpse of the true blue hues of the Mediterranean. With Luxury Gold, you travel along the Moyenne Corniche road, where you can admire the sea from your seat.

Italy

Capri, Italy

Thoughts of Italy call to mind the rolling hills of Tuscany and sun-dappled piazzas with children enjoying gelato. On the Ultimate Italy tour with Luxury Gold, you can see both, as well as visiting some of the world’s most treasured landmarks.

Every corner in Rome unveils a piece of history, so it’s a wonderful city to wander in summer. After your visit to the Sistine Chapel before it opens to the public, take a walk through the peaceful Roman Forum, which offers incredible vistas across the city.

Pompeii is another historic site on your luxury travel adventure. Your Local Expert will conjure up images of life as it was in the ill-fated town, where you’ll see the remnants of bath houses and grand villas. Marvel at the extraordinary mosaics and architectural features that still remain almost 2,000 years on.

Arrive to the isle of Capri in style, with an open-top taxi taking you to your luxury hotel. Sip the local specialty, a lemon granita, as you admire a breathtaking sunset over the turquoise waters. Stroll to the landscaped gardens of Caesar Augustus where you can view the Faraglioni Rocks, jutting proudly from the sea.

Another fabulous summer activity to indulge in is foraging for truffles in Florence. An expert truffle dog guides you as you seek out this aromatic delicacy typical to the region. This fun activity is followed by dinner, where you’ll have the option of sampling another local treasure, Fiorentina, the mouthwatering grilled beefsteak dish.

Italy is famous for its cuisine. Uncover the secrets of its flavorful food in a Tuscan cooking class with a professional chef. Set in the former hunting lodge of the fabled Medici family, this class culminates in a splendid lunch with wine, dining on the creations cooked up during the morning.

Portugal

Douro Valley – Photo by Evan Verni on Unsplash

Famed for its golden sands and lively culture, Portugal offers a dazzling array of activities for travelers. Experience the history and charm of the country on Luxury Gold’s Spain & Portugal in Style, a 13-day luxury guided tour that brings you right to the heart of it.

On Day Eight of your tour, you cross the Alentejo Plateau, a region with undulating plains that is known for cork trees and olive groves. After reaching the capital city, Lisbon, you’ll be treated to a typical Portuguese dinner at a local Fado house, where the UNESCO-recognized singing is performed.

Spend a morning in the historic Belém Quarter, with its ancient fortress that sits on the riverbank. Visit the 500-year-old Jerónimos Monastery and cloisters to see its Manueline architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A drive along the coast takes you to the Atlantic coastal village of Cascais. This pretty cove is famous for its sandy beaches, so you can find a spot for sunbathing or take a dip in the sea. A number of good restaurants line the marina, so you can order some fresh seafood straight from the ocean, accompanied by Vinho Verde, the refreshing local wine.

You’ll also explore a local winery near Evora, a stunning city full of architectural splendor. Hear more about the wine making process and taste a selection of their finest tipple, surrounded by acres of vines.

If you’re staying on in Portugal, it’s definitely worth visiting Praia da Adraga in Sintra, just 12 kilometers from Lisbon. Here you’ll see one of the most spectacular sunsets from Azenhas do Mar, a restaurant that’s built right into the cliffs. It’s also a great place to catch some waves, if you’re an experienced surfer.

Switzerland

Lucerne, Switzerland

Although people think of alpine villages and snow sports in relation to Switzerland, it’s a delightful place to visit in summer. It offers an alternative to the hotspots along the Mediterranean, but it has plenty to offer the summer traveler.

The glamorous resort of St. Moritz gets the most days of sunshine per year in Switzerland. This makes it a wonderful place to take a swim in one of the pristine lakes nearby. Hiking is a popular pastime here, and when you take in the awe-inspiring panoramas of glaciers, mountains and meadows, you’ll understand why. There are plenty of easy hikes for visitors, including Fuorcla Surlej to Pontresina.

On the Luxury Gold tour, Majestic Switzerland, you can discover the local flora, fauna and wildlife with an experienced nature guide. Keep your eyes peeled for marmots, red deer and the golden eagle. The lush foliage and forestry of the country provides an idyll for many species.

After a vigorous day of hiking, you can unwind in the outdoor pool of the Mont Cervin Palace hotel, your home for two nights on the Luxury Gold tour. The beautiful lawn and pool have incredible views of the surrounding Zermatt mountains, while the spa also offers steam baths, a bio sauna and signature therapies to sooth your weary body.

Switzerland has some sublime lakes, two of which are visited on your Majestic Switzerland tour. On day six, you’ll check into the Hotel d’Angleterre, located right on the banks of Lake Geneva, the inspiration for the Early European Romantic movement. Two days later, after chocolate in Broc and cheese in Gruyères, you’ll reach lovely Lucerne. There, you’ll enjoy a romantic cruise on the lake, where you can admire the fairy tale buildings and abundant greenery beyond.

Croatia

Split, Croatia

Croatia is another European destination that has really raised its profile over the past decade. Its romantic port towns, towering fortresses and stunning national parks provide visitors with plenty to explore. It also basks in glorious sunshine, making it perfect for a summer vacation.

Embark on the Captivating Croatia and Montenegro tour with Luxury Gold to discover the sparkling seas and dramatic history of this stretch of land. On day two, you can enjoy a cruise to take in the Bay of Dubrovnik from a different perspective, admiring the city ramparts that are among the grandest in Europe.

Luxury Gold guests also enjoy exclusive tours on day six, with a boat ride to the floating oyster beds of Ston and a tour of Winery Frankovic. Savour a freshly shucked oyster straight from the sea with a chilled glass of wine. Then, on shore, see a traditional olive mill and walk amid the groves before a relaxing lunch.

The dazzling waters of Petrcane on the Dalmation coast are a great place to have an afternoon swim. Alternatively, guests can relax on the soft sands of the fishing village or stroll along the seafront as the sun splits the sky in pinks and orange.

The Sea Organ in Zadar is a fascinating architectural sound installation that looks like steps leading into the water, but creates music from the ocean as it laps the chambers beneath. No song is ever the same as the water moves around.

The country is just as stunning when you venture inland. Plitvice National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where 16 interconnected lakes create a mesmerising prospect for visitors. Luxury Gold guests enjoy a guided tour by boat and on foot with a Local Expert to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Book a European Summer Vacation with Luxury Gold

Luxury Gold includes VIP Experiences on its tours that engage you more deeply with the destination. These are made possible by the wealth of experience behind us and the connections fostered over 100 years of travel. From meeting master jewellers in Croatia to a private tour of Doge’s Palace in Venice, your summer vacation will be enhanced by these once-in-a-lifetime events.

Travelers can currently take advantage of 15% off many of Luxury Gold’s tours for summer 2021, so now’s the time to see more of Europe.

“The journey has its own lyrics

A duet of balanced motion

The rails and wheels in tune.”      

Richard L.Ratliff

There is something timeless about traveling by train. It slows down the pace and allows you to soak up grand stretches of scenery from the comfort of a palace on wheels. Rather than flying over vast expansive countries, you can immerse further in scenic delights that many will never see.  Luxury rail travel tours give you the opportunity to escape the mundane and exchange the cacophony of modern life for the gentle hum of the train on the tracks.

From industrious commuter trains that hug craggy cliffsides overhanging the Mediterranean to the grand dames that wind through thousands of miles of snowy white terrain, rail fans can find a journey that completely indulges their passion. Luxury Gold offers travelers the chance to add VIP Guided tours by train so you can dip your toe into the charms of some of the world’s best rail journeys. Read on to discover three of the most famous luxury rail tours that you can add onto your Luxury Gold journey.

DELVE INTO THE ROMANCE OF RUSSIA BY RAIL

Luxury Gold’s Remarkable Russia tour is truly a spectacle for the senses, but adding the Trans Siberian Express option raises this journey by degrees of magnitude.

After the decadence and historical wonders of St Petersburg and Moscow, it’s time to board to Golden Eagle for one of the greatest luxury train tours on earth. Journey deep into Russia to explore less visited cities and some of the most spectacular lake and mountainside destinations on the planet.

The Trans Siberian railway line stretches 9,288 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok, which makes it the longest single–service railway in the world. This extraordinary feat of engineering was opened in stages between 1891 and 1916, and it has become a lifeline for the communities that it passes through, providing work and links to wider Russia that could much more difficult to access via road.

Your home for the journey is a private en suite cabin with your own personal attendant to address any needs you may have, or offer advice on your stay. All your creature comforts are looked after onboard, so you can journey with the utmost ease. The elegant dining car is a welcoming place for all meals and the Executive Chef offers special meals that reflect the traditional dishes of each place along the way.

First stop is the city of Kazan, situated on the longest river in Europe, the River Volga. Embark on a city tour that takes in the many wonders of historical significance, including the striking blue-domed Kremlin, once the historic citadel of Russia. The following day you’ll awaken in the capital of the Urals, Yekaterinburg, where you’ll see the obelisk marking the divide between Asia and Europe as you sip Champagne with your fellow travelers.

After another night in the comfort of your hotel on wheels, Novosibirsk is the next stop, right in the heart of Russia. Here, a highlight is the Opera House in Lenin Square, one of the largest in the world and home to two ballet and opera companies.

Your journey on this remarkable route allows plenty of time for relaxation on the Golden Eagle, with diversions such as Russian lessons and engaging talks on local history and culture by expert guest speakers. Expansive windows let you appreciate the awe-inspiring views as this vast landscape sweeps by. Relax with a drink in the Bar Lounge Car with the sounds of the piano tinkling in the background.

You’ll spend the day in Irkutsk, also known as the Paris of Siberia, where you’ll visit the Volkonsky House Museum to see the lives of the failed Decembrists recreated. Spend a day chugging alongside the incredible Lake Baikal, which holds 20% of the world’s fresh water. You can take a refreshing dip, or simply capture some fantastic photos of its astounding beauty. Leave the train for a boat ride to a Baikal settlement to meet the local people and learn about the unique flora and fauna of the area at the museum and aquarium.

In Ulan Ude, the capital of the Buryat Republic, you’ll be treated to a concert amid the local people, hearing songs in their language and partaking in their traditions. Explore Ulaan Baatar in Mongolia and immerse yourself in the rich culture of country with its fascinating history dating back to Genghis Khan.

Your final day onboard will be spent passing through Khabarovsk on the River Amur. Soak up the last relaxing moments of this unforgettable train ride before reaching the military port of Vladivostok, which was closed to tourists for more than 60 years. This completes your journey on the Trans Siberian Express, which will live long in your memory.

FEEL THE SPIRIT OF THE 1920’S ON THE VENICE SIMPLON ORIENT EXPRESS

Stepping onto the Venice Simplon Orient Express is like taking a leap back to a more glamorous era, where train travel was not simply a means of getting from A to B, and the most popular rail travel tours were limited to the elite.

Now, you can get a taste of the 1920s and 1930s when you add the Venice Simplon Orient Express option to your Ultimate Italy tour with Luxury Gold. This lovingly-restored train has been traveling this route since 1982 and it was the setting for a series of “Whicker’s World”, a British television show where travel journalist Alan Whicker interviewed guests and celebrities as they traveled in style. Sir Michael Palin also took this train, spending the first leg of “Around the World in 80 Days” in sleeping carriage 3544.

After a leisurely tour that takes in the magnificence of Rome, the captivating Isle of Capri and the luscious food and wine of Tuscany, your Italian affair will lead you to magical Venice, where you can bask in the allure of the city before being whisked away on the Venice Simplon Orient Express to Paris.

Join the train in late morning, gently departing Venice Santa Lucia station, saying ciao to the City of Bridges. Pass through the pretty Padua before reaching the pink-hued buildings of Verona, and then emerging slowly into exquisite Alpine scenery. Afternoon tea is served, adding an element of culinary delight to this slow afternoon onboard. Mingle with fellow travelers in the Champagne Bar, or simply enjoy the view.

Dining is an integral part of your experience on board the Venice Simplon Orient Express, but not only for the epicurean splendor. Each dining car has its own personality, inviting guests into a bygone era where dressing up for dinner was non-negotiable. Step into Cote d’Azur to see the René Lalique glass, admire the stunning marquetry of Etoile du Nord and unwind among the flamboyant furnishings of L’Oriental.

Meals are a celebration, with seasonal ingredients carefully selected from the destinations the train travels through, such as fine shellfish from the shores of Brittany and tender vegetables from Provence. Special requests and dietary needs are catered for and every morsel is a delight. The French chefs deliver gourmet excellence every time, so you can be assured of a first class meal.

If you can peel yourself away from the stories at the bar, a restful night sleep awaits in your beautiful art deco cabin. While the rooms have been updated for modern comfort, you’ll still feel the glamor of another age. Plush seating is perfect to relax and gaze out on the passing scenery while the silky damask sheets invite you to snuggle in for a few winks before waking up in France.

Breakfast is served in your cabin at a time to suit you, as this marvellous train ride glides gently into the City of Light. There’s no better way to arrive in Paris for your stay.

GRASP THE GLORY OF THE ROCKIES ON THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER

Imagine the icy peaks looming over you as you travel through national parks in a bi-level glass dome coach? Choose the Majesty of the Rockies with GoldLeaf Service to fully appreciate the grandeur of this scenery.

On Day three of your luxury guided tour through Canada, you’ll board the Rocky Mountaineer in Vancouver and leave the coastline to travel deep into British Columbia. The enormous windows provide you with sweeping views across the landscape, which changes from thriving green meadows into abundant firs that climb the mountainside.

You’ll experience exceptional service onboard from dedicated hosts alongside your Traveling Concierge. Be entertained by the stories of each landmark you pass, or spy the incredible wildlife as you sip on a refreshing drink. A delectable lunch is served in the lower lounge as the beautiful scenery unfolds outside the windows. If you fancy some fresh air, you can step onto the outdoor viewing platform to really stand amid the giant Rockies.

The first day’s highlights include Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon, a narrow tidal strait that the water rushes through, which makes for an exhilarating crossing. The steep slopes by Thompson river offer plentiful photo opportunities before you reach Kamloops, where you’ll bed down at a luxury hotel for the night.

The following morning, you’ll return to the Rocky Mountaineer for more dramatic vistas from your railway vantage point. Follow the North Thompson River through the Monashee mountains, where gold, copper and silver are mined from the foothills. Then the luxury train will wind through the Cariboo Mountains, a true wilderness with lofty serrated peaks and glacial lakes. See the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson, standing at 12,972 feet and climb over the Yellowhead Pass that straddles the Continental Divide. Another incredible feature of this area is the Pyramid Falls, which can’t be accessed from any trail, but the view from the Rocky Mountaineer is unsurpassed.

Arrive in Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for your stay at The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge on the unspoiled shores of Lac Beauvert.