These exclusive group excursions across Europe offer the promise of unforgettable holidays, whether you’re yearning for Budapest’s enchanting Christmas market or the mesmerizing midnight sun in Norway. These journeys cater to an array of travelers, allowing you to imagine dining with your grandparents under the Norwegian midnight sun or venturing into the storied city of Troy with your nephews and nieces.

Multi-generational travel has been on the rise as families seek to reconnect following the challenges of COVID-19 lockdowns. In response to this demand, renowned travel company Black Tomato has reported a 35% increase in private group bookings for 2022 compared to 2019. To meet this surging interest, they are launching a collection of 30 bespoke travel experiences tailored for friends and families to explore together.

Here are some of the exceptional group travel experiences in Europe:

• Lofotens, Norway: Envision yourself on a secluded beach, set on an uninhabited island within the captivating Lofoten archipelago, known for inspiring the landscapes of Disney’s ‘Frozen.’ In this enchanting setting, a team of world-class chefs will curate a beachside barbecue for you and your loved ones. This gourmet private retreat is a part of Black Tomato’s new ‘See You in the Moment’ experiences, set to launch on 12 October. The multi-day adventure can be customized to include activities like hiking, kayaking, surfing, RIB boat rides, and cold-water plunges, offering something for thrill-seekers and food enthusiasts alike.
• Loire Valley, France: While wine tasting tours may exude romance, they’re not limited to couples. Indulge in a sustainable wine-tasting journey in France’s Loire Valley with the No Fly Travel Club. Perfect for a long weekend with friends, this three-night itinerary includes a home-cooked wine-tasting dinner with sunset views, visits to local small-batch producers, and a private wine-tasting experience by foot or e-bike. Your stay will be at La Grande Maison, an eco-conscious chateau south of the medieval town of Saumur, complete with return trains, transfers, luxury accommodation, breakfast, two home-cooked dinners, and a private tasting day with lunch.
• Central European Christmas Markets: If your family goes all out for Christmas, elevate the celebration with a train-hopping journey through central Europe’s festive markets. Board the Eurostar in London, travel to Munich via Cologne, and embark on the Kalman Imre sleeper train to Budapest, Hungary, where you can immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at one of Europe’s best Christmas markets. The festive adventure continues with stops in Prague, Krakow, Berlin, and Brussels, allowing you to savor the twinkling trees, gluhwein, and gingerbread from December 2nd to 23rd. For those who find the planning overwhelming, the flight-free travel company Byway offers a comprehensive 12-day Central European Christmas Markets itinerary, including transport, accommodation, and support along the way.
• Turkey: Best of Turkey: Discover the wonders of Turkey on G Adventures’ Best of Turkey trip, an eight-day adventure commencing and concluding in Istanbul. Dive into history at the WWI battlefield of Gallipoli before immersing yourself in Greek myths within the ancient cities of Troy and Ephesus. Enjoy relaxation in the mineral-rich thermal waters of Pamukkale’s white cliff springs before returning to Istanbul to explore its bazaars, mosques, and tea houses. With comfortable accommodations, a mix of private and public transport, and some light walking, this trip is designed to suit travelers of all ages.