The Best Group Trips to Europe: A Comprehensive Guide

by | Mar 16, 2023 | Destinations, Europe, Group Travel, Travel Buddies, Travel Guides, Travel Tips

Europe is one of the most popular destinations in the world for travelers. One of the best ways to experience Europe is by taking a group trip. Not only does it offer cost-sharing benefits, but it also provides built-in support systems and the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers. In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at the best group trips to Europe.

How to plan a trip to Europe with friends?

  1. Types of Group Trips
  2. Group Tour Companies
  3. Best Group Trips to Europe Destinations
    • Western Europe
    • Southern Europe
    • Eastern Europe
    • Northern Europe
    • Central Europe

Types of Group Trips

types of group tours
Copyright: Mike Swigunski

When it comes to group trips to Europe, there are several types of tours to consider. Each type offers a unique experience, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Guided Tours

Guided tours are a popular option for those who want to explore Europe with an expert guide. Moreover, these tours are typically led by a knowledgeable tour guide. They will provide commentary and insight into the history, culture, and landmarks of the destination. Guided tours vary in size, from small groups of 6-12 people to large groups of 50 or more. They also vary in duration, from day tours to multi-day tours that can last up to several weeks.

Guided tours are a great choice for travelers who want a structured itinerary and don’t want to worry about planning the trip themselves. They also provide the opportunity to meet other travelers with similar interests. Therefore, this is perfect for those who want to go on group trips to Europe with this type of trip.

Self-Guided Tours

Self-guided tours are a popular choice for those who want more flexibility and control over their itinerary. These tours provide travelers with a detailed itinerary and all the necessary information to explore the destination on their own. Moreover, self-guided tours often include transportation, accommodations, and some activities, but travelers are free to choose how they spend their time.

Self-guided tours are a good option for travelers who want to travel at their own pace and have the freedom to make their own decisions. Moreover, they are also a more budget-friendly option than guided tours. So, are you interested in taking a self-guided tour for your group trips to Europe?

Adventure Tours

Adventure tours are a popular choice for travelers who want to get off the beaten path and explore Europe’s natural wonders. Furthermore, these tours often include outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and skiing. Adventure tours can range from easy to challenging, depending on the level of physical activity involved.

In addition to that, adventure tours are a great choice for travelers who want an active and immersive experience. So, they are also a good option for solo travelers who want to meet other like-minded adventurers. If you want group trips to Europe and experience the continent’s wonderful nature, this type of tour is for you.

Culinary Tours

Are you a foodie? Do you love cooking? Then, culinary tours are a popular choice for foodies and wine enthusiasts. These tours focus on the local cuisine and often include cooking classes, wine tastings, and visits to local markets and restaurants. Moreover, culinary tours can be either guided or self-guided.

In addition to that, culinary tours are a great choice for travelers who want to indulge in the local cuisine and learn about the region’s food culture. They are also a good option for those who want a more relaxed and low-key itinerary. So, if you want slow travel and also explore new skills during your group trips to Europe, this is the chance for you.

Cultural Tours

Cultural tours are a popular choice for those who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and history of the destination. Moreover, these tours often include visits to museums, historical landmarks, and cultural events. So, cultural tours can be either guided or self-guided.

Besides, cultural tours are a great choice for travelers who want to learn about the local culture and history of the destination. So, they are also a good option for those who want a more intellectual and educational experience. This type of tour is perfect for you if you are a cultural enthusiast or history buff.

Group Tour Companies

group tour companies
Copyright: Luke Porter

Many tour companies offer group trips to Europe. However, each company offers a different range of tours, catering to different interests, budgets, and travel styles. Here are some of the top tour companies for group trips to Europe:

JoinMyTrip

JoinMyTrip is leading in the group tour industry, offering travelers the chance to join trips organized by locals. These tours are designed to provide a more authentic and immersive travel experience. JoinMyTrip offers tours to destinations all over Europe, organized by locals who know the area best.

If you want to arrange group trips to Europe, we highly recommend you choose JoinMyTrip because the group sizes here range from three to max ten people. That size is enough for those planning to travel in a more intimate way. Also, there are a lot of options compared to many group tour companies worldwide.

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is a small group adventure travel company that has been offering immersive experiences to travelers for over 30 years. Moreover, they specialize in small group tours, offering an intimate experience with an average of 10 travelers per tour. So this ensures that each traveler receives personalized attention and can make meaningful connections with their fellow travelers.

G Adventures

G Adventures is a tour operator specializing in small-group escorted tours. With over 700 itineraries in over 100 countries, G Adventures offers travelers an immersive and authentic experience that allows them to connect with the local culture, history, and natural beauty of each destination. Moreover, their tours cater to a variety of interests, including adventure, culture, wildlife, and local living. 

Contiki

Contiki is a tour company that specializes in group trips for travelers aged 18-35. Their tours are designed for young travelers who want to explore Europe’s top destinations, with a focus on socializing, nightlife, and adventure. Contiki offers tours to destinations all over Europe, including Italy, France, and Germany.

EF Go Ahead Tours

EF Go Ahead Tours is a tour company that offers a range of group tours to Europe. Their tours are designed for travelers who want a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience, with a focus on cultural immersion and learning. EF Go Ahead Tours offers tours to destinations all over Europe, including Spain, Italy, and Ireland.

Best Group Trips to Europe Destinations

There are a lot of destinations in Europe that you can go to for your next group trips. So, check out every region that suits your and your travel buddies‘ best interests!

Western Europe

western europe group trips to europe
Copyright: Moritz Kindler

Western Europe is a popular destination for group trips to Europe because it offers a wide range of activities and experiences that cater to different interests. From art museums and historical landmarks to shopping and nightlife, there is something for everyone in Western Europe. Additionally, the region is well-connected by trains and flights, making it easy for groups to get around and visit multiple destinations.

For example, Paris, the City of Love, is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Western Europe. A visit to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre Dame Cathedral should be on every traveler’s list. Next, Amsterdam, on the other hand, is famous for its canal cruises, Anne Frank House, and Van Gogh Museum. In addition to that, London, the British capital, is a city that combines the best of the old and the new with Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and the Tower of London.

Southern Europe

southern europe group trips to europe
Copyright: Dan Novac

Southern Europe is the next ideal destination for group trips to Europe because of its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. Moreover, the region is perfect for group activities such as beach days, boat trips, and exploring quaint towns and villages. Besides, the food and wine in Southern Europe are also a big draw for groups, as each country has its own unique cuisine and wine culture.

Italy is undoubtedly the most popular destination in Southern Europe. The Amalfi Coast is one of the most picturesque places in the world, with its colorful villages and stunning cliffside views. Then, Greece offers the perfect combination of history and beaches with its ancient ruins and crystal-clear waters. Santorini, with its white-washed houses and stunning sunsets, is a must-visit. Additionally, Croatia is another stunning destination with its beautiful beaches, national parks, and medieval towns.

Eastern Europe

eastern europe group trips to europe
Copyright: Kate Kasiutich

Eastern Europe is another great destination for group trips to Europe because it is more affordable than other regions in Europe. Moreover, the cost of accommodation, food, and activities is generally lower, making it ideal for budget-conscious groups. Furthermore, the region also has a rich history and beautiful architecture that is often overlooked, making it perfect for groups looking for something unique and off the beaten path.

So go to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with its historic castles, bridges, and churches. Then, Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is famous for its thermal baths, stunning architecture, and beautiful views of the Danube River. Or Krakow, the cultural capital of Poland, is a charming old town with beautiful buildings, churches, and museums. Romania, with its castles, mountains, and medieval towns, is another destination worth exploring.

Northern Europe

northern europe group trips to europe
Copyright: MAO YUQING

Northern Europe is the next great destination for group trips to Europe because of its natural beauty and outdoor activities. In fact, the region is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe, including fjords, mountains, and forests. Therefore, your group trips can enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities while taking in the stunning scenery. In addition to that, the region is also known for its friendly people and safe, welcoming cities.

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a beautiful city with stunning architecture, a vibrant culture, and excellent food. Moreover, Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is famous for its picturesque old town, stunning waterfront views, and beautiful parks. Then, Bergen, the second-largest city in Norway, is known for its colorful houses, stunning mountains, and fjords. 


In conclusion, group trips to Europe offer a fantastic way to explore the continent with like-minded travelers. With so many tour companies and options to choose from, it is important to do your research and choose a company that aligns with your interests and travel style. As we suggest above, JoinMyTrip offers only the best small group tours that suit your interest in exploring the best group trips to Europe. Our dedicated TripLeaders will ensure you will have the best vacation experience with us! So, book your best group trips to Europe now!

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