Explore Worldwide unveils 11 new Europe trips

Explore Worldwide has launched 11 new European escorted tours with a focus on ‘slow travel’ in lesser-known regions, often by public transport.

Itineraries include a tour along the Mediterranean coastline through Spain, France and Italy; island-hopping along the Dalmatian coast of Croatia; Greek island-hopping; and Rome to Venice by Rail.

Ben Ittensohn, Explore’s global sales director, said: “When creating these new European trips, our expert product team were working to a brief to include public transport wherever possible – it’s a more sustainable way to travel, of course, but it’s also a really vibrant and authentic way to travel.

“Joining diverse travellers, commuters and locals, and traveling more slowly through these countries we feel we know already, that’s the way for your customers to really get to know these wonderful destinations, away from the main hotspots.”

Bookings to western Europe have surged since the start of the year, up 43% compared to 2019, for sales made between January and April.

The 12-day Barcelona, Provence and the Italian Riviera tour costs from £2,399, not including flights.

It starts in Barcelona, and takes clients into France to see Languedoc, the Camargue and Avignon, then onwards to Italy, to visit Cinque Terre fishing villages, Pisa and Florence.