Europe family tours
A first family trip to Europe often means several countries. We plan it privately: fewer hotel changes, trains instead of long coach days, and time in each place to actually enjoy it. A classic route is Paris, Switzerland and Italy over twelve to fourteen days.
Plan it with usWhat we'd suggest
Fewer, longer stays
Three or four bases in two weeks, rather than a new city every day.
One visa
France, Switzerland, Italy and Greece are all covered by a Schengen visa; the UK needs its own.
Where in Europe
Switzerland
Mountains, lakes and the best trains in the world. June to September for green valleys, hiking and lake days. December to March for snow and skiing. April–May and October are quieter, with some mountain lifts closed for maintenance.
France
Paris, and everything beyond it. April to June and September to October. July and August are busy and hot in the south; Paris in December is beautiful and cold.
Italy
Long lunches, old cities, a coastline that goes on. April to June and September to October. The coast is at its best from May to September; cities are pleasant in spring and autumn.
United Kingdom
London, the countryside, and Scotland's edges. May to September for long days and the countryside. December for London at Christmas. August in Edinburgh means the festivals.
Greece
Whitewashed islands and a very blue sea. May, June and September to early October. July and August are hottest and busiest. Many island hotels close from November to April.
Turkey
Istanbul, Cappadocia and the Turquoise Coast. April to May and September to November. Summer is hot inland; the coast is best from June to September.
- Paris, the Alps and ItalyA first European journey done properly: four nights in Paris, the Swiss Alps by train, then Venice and Rome.
- Summer in the Swiss AlpsLakes, cable cars and mountain villages across three bases by scenic train — made for children and grandparents alike, with the Glacier Express as an option.
- Istanbul and CappadociaFour nights in Istanbul, then cave hotels and balloons over Cappadocia's valleys.
- Summer on the Amalfi CoastRome for three nights, then Positano and Ravello: boat days, lemon groves and lunches above the sea.
Private tour or group tour?
A private journey costs more than a coach tour but gives you your own pace, hotels and guides — and no early mornings unless you want them.
