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.

A showcase of beautiful wildernesses, eclectic cultures, warm hospitality and rich heritage, this journey will take you from cosmopolitan Cape Town into the heart of Big Five territory. Uncover the history of South Africa, while luxuriously travelling like the intrepid explorers of the past. Meet extraordinary local characters and taste the Cape’s finest wines and culinary delights. Your journey concludes with a three-day safari in the Sabi Sands, known for having one of the planet’s highest concentrations of animal species.

This trip includes a stay at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, nestled between Table Mountain and 12 Apostles mountain range, offering amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. Join your Travelling Concierge and travel companions for an exquisite welcome dinner, hosted at the hotel’s award-winning Azure restaurant. Enjoy expansive ocean views from the terrace as you experience fine dining of modern South African cuisine infused with international influences. Inspired by the ocean, the menu boasts an array of dishes prepared with seasonally organic ingredients.

View our Spectacular South Africa itinerary

2. Travel like British royalty

Uncover the very essence of Britain and go to significant destinations that were once frequented by the likes of Shakespeare and notorious kings. As you travel in elegant style, stay at the most sought-after addresses in Britain, dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant and savour local specialities. From the beautiful Georgian city of Bath to the mesmerising Lake District, this is a journey of a lifetime.

This trip includes a stay at the five-star Rubens at the Palace Hotel, overlooking Buckingham Palace, this historic hotel has been fully renovated and offers a host of restaurants and bars. Join your Travelling Concierge and travel companions for a grand welcome dinner hosted in the elegant English Grill restaurant.

View our British Royale itinerary

3. Indulge in breath-taking landscapes of the Emerald Isle

Welcome to the Emerald Isle. A storyteller’s paradise, you’ll explore the natural elements of this vibrant country, meeting some colourful characters along the way. From esteemed author and Dubliner Trevor White, to Killarney locals and the lively performers of Gaelic Roots – who will teach you a few moves – you’re in for a trip rich in history, fascinating local insights and lots of laughter! We are certain the breath-taking landscapes and lyrical personality will have you leaving this rugged, fairytale land inspired.

This trip includes a stay at Ashford Castle. Your royal adventure begins when you enter through the grand stone gates of our remarkable 800-year-old castle and are led with a lone piper across the bridge to the castle. Discover our exquisite interiors, delicious cuisine, passionate team, a wealth of estate activities and state-of-the-art spa. As a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, Ireland’s first Forbes five-star and former home of the Guinness family, Ashford are exceptional in every sense. In the evening you will dine at Cullen’s at the Cottage, on the grounds of Ashford Castle this traditional thatched cottage used to be Cong Cinema.

During your leisure time why not head for a walk in its grounds and take in the plush exterior and crisp, fresh country air? Experience Ashford Castle your way with a choice between a unique falconry experience or scrumptious Afternoon Tea. Your final day culminates with a celebration dinner at the esteemed George V Dining Room. Built specially for King George V in 1905, this room bestows a grand sense of occasion. Dine like royalty and share stories from the journey with your new-found friends, over dinner and wine.

View our Ultimate Ireland itinerary

4. Discover castles and kingdoms of Britain and Ireland

Head to the Islands of Britain and Ireland for a stately journey across rugged, fairy-tale lands. A storyteller’s paradise, you’ll uncover the essence of Britain and the natural elements of Ireland, meeting some colourful characters along the way. From esteemed author and Dubliner Trevor White, to Killarney locals and a Royal House Guard in London, you’re in for a trip rich in history, with fascinating local insights and lots of laughter! Travel in elegant style, stay at the most sought-after addresses, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants and savour local specialities. And of course, no trip to this part of the world would be complete without trying esteemed local delicacies, including Guinness in Ireland and a delicious English scone.

This trip includes an overnight stay at both the Rubens at the Palace and Ashford Castle.

View our Castles and Kingdoms itinerary

5. Marvel at majestic views of Switzerland

Step into a world of snow-capped mountains, traditional alpine villages and warm hospitality. This idyllic journey takes you to fairy-tale castles, breath-taking peaks and storybook meadows. Along the way you’ll meet local experts and passionate foodies who will share local specialties, such as fondue and creamy chocolate, with you. Stay in luxurious hotels, see beautiful cities and marvel at some of the most extraordinary scenery on the planet.

This trip includes a stay at Hotel d’Angleterre, perfectly situated on the banks of the Lake. Voted the number one hotel in Switzerland by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2017, the hotel blends British charm with the finest Swiss hospitality.

View our Majestic Switzerland itinerary.