Best Europe tours for Aussies and Kiwis

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’re likely more familiar with Croatia than you realise. The historic walled city of Dubrovnik, perched on the Adriatic Coast, famously doubled as King’s Landing – its Gothic palaces and Renaissance fountains creating the perfect medieval backdrop for the series.

But Croatia’s appeal extends far beyond its on-screen fame. From the emerald waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park to the sun-drenched islands of the Dalmatian Coast, the country is rich in natural beauty. Our Cycle the Dalmation Coast small group tour reveals a side most travellers miss, giving you the freedom to pedal from Dubrovnik to hidden beaches, medieval villages and coastal vineyards.

 

Known as the ‘heel’ of Italy’s boot, Puglia combines the best of Italy in one stunning region. With the Baroque architecture of Florence, vineyard-dotted countryside similar to Tuscany and sparkling beaches akin to the Amalfi Coast, there’s a lot to discover.

The best way to experience Puglia is to live like a local. On Explore Worldwide’s Highlights of Puglia tour, you’ll stay in a beehive-shaped Trulli in Alberobello, visit an ancient olive oil press and wander the cobbled lanes of Matera with an expert guide.

Keen to taste Puglia’s local cuisine? Food lovers can join our A Taste of Italy walking tour, including a hands-on cooking class where you’ll make traditional orecchiette ‘little ear’ pasta.

Slovenia may be an emerging European destination, but this scenic country is every bit as captivating as neighbours like Italy and France. And the best way to see it all is on Explore Worldwide’s Alpine Lakes of Slovenia tour.

Guided by a local expert, you’ll visit the country’s most photographed lake, roam Triglav National Park and stay in charming Ljubljana, one of Europe’s greenest capitals. You’ll find there’s mystery beneath the beauty, too, as our guide takes you deeper into Slovenia (literally). 

You’ll travel by scenic rail through the Vipava Valley wine region to the UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves, vast underground chambers once used for prehistoric rituals. Small group travel reveals a mystical side to Europe that Australians and New Zealanders rarely see.

The Baltics remain one of Europe's most rewarding yet overlooked regions. The three small nations of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia offer an abundance of coastal scenery, medieval old towns and forested national parks. If you’re craving an off the beaten path Europe escape, this trio is a quieter alternative to the Mediterranean. 

Because all three border the Baltic Sea, you’ll experience windswept coastlines alongside colourful capitals and UNESCO-listed natural beauties. Explore Worldwide’s 15-day Historic Baltic Republics tour makes your trip seamless, connecting cultural highlights with immersive local encounters. Walk along the drifting sand dunes of Curonian Spit National Park, and keep an eye out for native wildlife including moose, wild boar and birdlife. It’s a rare experience you’ll never forget.