Northern Explorer Christmas & New Year

Northern Explorer Christmas & New Year

1,959 Views
18 Days From

$3425

$3025

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Dreaming of a festive season in fairytale Europe? Spend Christmas and New Year on the Northern Europe Christmas & New Year tour! Cruise on Amsterdam's iconic canals, peruse plenty of Christmas markets and visit an enchanting island castle. Discover must-see cities like Copenhagen, Helsinki, Warsaw, Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius. Have a Finnish festive experience on Christmas Day in Helsinki. Indulge in traditional Dutch cheese, local cuisines and warm gluhwein. From medieval towns to royal palaces, Europe has a lot of history to uncover. Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Europe holiday! ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Wander through Christmas markets in Europe and visit the Baltic states and Scandinavia

  • Locally guided tours through Oslo, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn and Warsaw

  • Orientation tours of Copenhagen, Riga, Vilnius and Berlin

  • Experience Christmas and all the festivities in Helsinki, and ?Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Berlin

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Of Tour In Amsterdam

Location: Amsterdam

Meals Included: Dinner

Prepare for 28 days of festive fun! Head to the hotel to meet up with your tour leader and travel companions. It's time for the Christmas experiences to commence! Head out to the stunning Dutch countryside and visit a local farm to learn more about how quintessential Dutch cheese and Clogs are made. Next, join the optional excursion to Volendam & Zaanse Schans for a visit to a local fishing village and to marvel at the iconic Dutch windmills. Later today, hop aboard a cruise of Amsterdam's canals for some of the most incredible views of the city. This evening, sit down for an included welcome dinner followed by free time to soak up the festive Amsterdam ambience at night! ...more ...less

  • Visit a local Dutch cheese farm and clog factory

  • Enjoy a cruise along Amsterdam’s iconic canals

  • Welcome dinner in Amsterdam

Day 2: Amsterdam - Hamburg - Northern Germany

Jassim Anwar

Location: Amsterdam, Hamburg, Hamburg

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, say goodbye to Amsterdam and journey onwards to Hamburg. Get comfortable and soak up the sensational scenery on the drive through the Dutch and German countryside. Prepare yourself for some serious exploring once in Hamburg! Magical Christmas markets line the Town Hall Square around the festive season, which you can explore during some free time this afternoon. Savour every sip of real glühwein to warm you from within as you discover one sight after another. Can you feel the German Christmas spirit in the air? Depart Hamburg after a few hours and head to this evening's accommodation in Northern Germany.

  • Feel the festive atmosphere at Hamburg’s Christmas market

Day 3: Northern Germany - Copenhagen

photographer

Location: Hamburg, Copenhagen

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cross the border into Scandinavia this morning as the coach continues towards Copenhagen. Traverse Denmark's forests and cross Øresund Bridge - the longest in Europe! After arriving at today's final destination, Denmark's capital city of Copenhagen, head to this evening's accommodation for check-in. Next, head out on an orientation tour with your tour leader. Copenhagen is considered one of the world's most liveable cities, and after exploring it today, it will be perfectly clear why. Tick highlights like the Little Mermaid statue and Rosenborg Castle off your bucket list before exploring at leisure during some free time. Why not check out one of Copenhagen's captivating Christmas markets? Admire the flickering lights, visit old Saint Nick and savour some delicious festive delights!

  • Tour Copenhagen; the capital of Denmark

Day 4: Copenhagen - Helsingør - Gothenburg - Oslo

Location: Copenhagen, Helsingør, Gothenburg, Oslo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Farvel, Copenhagen! Tick three new countries off your travel bucket list today as the coach travels to Denmark, Sweden and Norway. At dawn, head to the port town of Helsingør. Board a ferry towards Sweden and on the way, admire views of Kronborg Castle, the setting of Shakespeare's Hamlet. Post portage, journey from Helsingborg towards Gothenburg and soak up the stunning Swedish scenery along the way. After arriving in Gothenburg, the second-largest city in Sweden, embark on an orientation drive with your tour leader and find somewhere to grab lunch. Next, cross the Norwegian border, today's third, and head towards the capital city of Oslo. This evening is free to explore the city's scenery, culture and architecture at leisure.

  • Cruise from Helsingør to Helsingborg by ferry

  • Enjoy a scenic drive through the Swedish countryside

  • Visit Gothenburg; Sweden’s second city

Day 5: Oslo: Free Day

Location: Oslo

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, join an expert local guide for a tour of Oslo! The Norwegian capital perfectly fuses contemporary city life and magnificent nature. See some of Oslo's top sights, including Akershus Castle, the Royal Palace and the Oslo Opera House. After the city tour, spend the rest of the day however you like! Choose to join the Oslo+ excursion to uncover more about this enchanting Scandinavian city. Admire some of the city's top attractions, such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Fram Museum. Otherwise, spend the day at leisure, wandering around the city's stunning architecture, soaking up the festive spirit, and getting to know the city's cuisine! Norwegian salmon is great for lunch or dinner.

  • See the highlights of Oslo with a local guide

Day 6: Oslo - Örebro - Sigtuna - Stockholm

Location: Oslo, Örebro, Stockholm

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Bid Norwayadjøthis morning as the coach heads back to Sweden. En route, marvel at the majestic natural scenery and diverse landscapes before arriving in Örebro. Enjoy some free time to stroll through the stunning historic centre, spot the captivating castle and find a lunch spot before the journey continues. Next stop is Sigtuna, the oldest town in Sweden! Set off on an orientation tour of Stigtuna's top sights, such as Stora Gatan, the main street of Sigtuna. Then, enjoy some free time. Later, arrive in the capital of Sweden, Stockholm! Meet up with a local guide for an exciting driving and walking tour. Sit down for an included dinner tonight in this historic yet contemporary city.

  • Visit Örebro in the heart of Sweden

  • Visit Sigtuna; Sweden’s oldest town

  • Explore Stockholm with a local guide

  • Enjoy dinner in Stockholm

Day 7: Stockholm: Free Day

Location: Stockholm

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend a full free day in Stockholm however you wish! A highly recommended choice is joining today's optional excursion to learn about the nautical history of Sweden and embark on a winter cruise. Visit the captivating Vasa Museum and board a Stockholm sightseeing cruise around the inner archipelago. An alternative is soaking up the historic Gamla Stan or exploring some of the many natural areas around the city. Make sure to try some local cuisine today! Wander around and you'll discover Christmas markets with many  delectable local Christmas treats. Take advantage of the chance to do some final Christmas shopping and get into the festive spirit with a glass ofglögg, Swedish mulled wine and gingerbread.

Day 8: Stockholm - Helsinki (Christmas Eve)

Location: Stockholm, Sigtuna, Helsinki

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Make the most of your last morning in Stockholm. After breakfast, travel to the city centre and soak up the city sights, do some shopping or enjoy a leisurely lunch. This afternoon, say goodbye to Stockholm and get ready for the journey to the tour’s next country - Finland! Hop aboard an overnight ferry and spend Christmas Eve tucking into a delicious buffet as you soak up the stunning vistas from the water. Wake up in Finland's capital of Helsinki tomorrow for a magical Christmas Morning!

  • Catch an overnight ferry to Finland

Day 9: Helsinki (Christmas Day)

Location: Helsinki

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Awake to ahyvää jouluain Helsinki (that's Merry Christmas)! The fabulous capital of Finland has a lot to offer on a Christmas Day tour. Arrive later this morning and meet up with an expert local guide for a city tour. Admire the beautiful architecture and unique design of the city and see the top sights, such as the Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square. Spend the afternoon as you please during some free time. Finland sure knows how to get festive, so you're guaranteed a surplus of Christmas spirit! Stroll the streets in search of wonderful festive decorations and popular local Christmas markets. Tonight, enjoy a memorable festive dinner with your new travel family!

  • Discover the highlights of Helsinki with a local guide

  • Enjoy a festive Christmas group dinner in Helsinki

Day 10: Helsinki - Tallinn

Location: Helsinki, Tallinn

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, leave the fabulous Finland behind; it's time to explore the beautiful Baltic States! After an included transfer to the port, board the ferry to Tallinn in Estonia. Arrive in Tallinn after crossing the Gulf of Finland and get ready to explore this fairytale Estonian capital. After hotel transfer and check-in, meet up with a local guide for a tour of the city! The medieval influence in contrast with contemporary architecture makes for one of the most captivating cities in Europe. Tallinn's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with history to explore. Why not join tonight’s optional excursion for a delicious, festive meal at a local restaurant?

  • Helsinki to Tallinn ferry crossing

  • Enjoy a walking tour of Tallinn with a local guide

Day 11: Tallinn - Pärnu - Saulkrasti - Latvian Military Cemetery - Riga

Location: Tallinn, Riga

Meals Included: Breakfast

Another country calls today! Leave Estonia behind in exchange for Latvia as the coach makes its way to the capital city of Riga. En route, make a stop in Pärnu, an Estonian resort city. Then, learn about the tragic Latvian history with a visit to the Latvian Military Cemetery, which honours the soldiers who fought in WWI. Next, prepare to experience the lively Baltic city of Riga in all its glory! Soak up the tangible atmosphere of the city and its people while marvelling at the stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Join your tour leader on an orientation tour and see some of Riga's top attractions and landmarks, like the larger-than-life central market!

  • Sightsee in Pärnu; a resort city in Estonia

  • Learn about Latvian history at the Latvian War Cemetery

  • See Riga on an orientation tour

Day 12: Hill Of Crosses - Vilnius

Location: Hill of Crosses, Vilnius

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The next country on the list is today's playground - Lithuania! Today's first stop is in northern Lithuania. The Hill of Crosses is a famous pilgrimage site with over 100,000 crosses, the first of which was placed in 1831. Next, journey onwards to Lithuania's capital city, Vilnius. Join your tour leader for an informative orientation tour of the capital before enjoying some free time to spend however you wish. Be sure to spend some time exploring Užupis, a self-proclaimed artists’ republic! Vilnius has a lot to offer, from cathedrals and  churches to buzzing neighbourhoods and art districts. This evening, enjoy an included local dinner with the group.

  • See the Hill of Crosses; Lithuania

  • Explore Vilnius on an orientation tour

  • Visit Užupio Respublika; a self-proclaimed republic in Vilnius

Day 13: Trakai - Warsaw

Location: Trakai, Warsaw

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Wave goodbye to Vilnius this morning as the tour continues on to Warsaw, Poland. En route, stop at Trakai Historical National Park and take incredible photos of the 14-century Trakai Castle, a fortress located in the centre of Lake Galvė. Next, get back on the coach for the journey to Warsaw. Be sure to soak up the stunning sights as your tour leader guides the journey to Poland's capital and culture hub. Upon arrival in this exciting and eclectic city that beautifully blends old and new, check into this evening's accommodation before enjoying an included group dinner at the hotel. Get some rest for an adventurous day exploring the old town and all its inspiring history and beauty tomorrow.

  • Stop at Trakai, Europe's only historic national park

  • See Warsaw’s highlights on a driving tour

Day 14: Warsaw: Free Day

Location: Warsaw

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start this morning with a locally guided tour of the charming Old Town, the very heartbeat of Warsaw. Visit the market square, dating back to the 13th century, and marvel at the Royal Castle and the Presidential Palace. Next, spend the rest of the day in Warsaw as you wish! You could meander to one of the many museums that showcase the city's rich history, such as the Chopin Museum or the Museum of the History of Polish Jews. The National Museum's collection will also undoubtedly impress! To experience many of the city’s highlights such as delicious Pierogi and the stunning Lazienki Park, join the Highlights of Warsaw optional excursion.

  • Explore Warsaw’s Old Town with a local guide

Day 15: Poznań - Berlin (New Year’S Eve)

Location: Poznań, Berlin

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It's the last day of the year and the coach is on its way west to Berlin for an epic New Year's Eve! But first, stop over in Ponzań, Poland with free time for lunch and to explore the historic old town of the city where Polish kings used to be crowned. Next, cross the border into Germany and finally, buzzing Berlin! Upon arrival, set off on an informative driving and walking tour of the city's best-known attractions, such as the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie. Arrive at the hotel and settle in before enjoying dinner at a Bavarian beer hall right in the heart of the city. Get ready to welcome the new year in proper German fashion!

  • Explore Old Market Square in Poznan

  • See iconic sights on a walking and driving tour of Berlin

  • Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Berlin

Day 16: Berlin: Free Day

Location: Berlin

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's a new year and where better to wake up than in the heart of Berlin? Take full advantage of this free day to spend as you wish. You could explore the town solo, embark on a hike, or join the optional New Year’s Berlin+ guided city tour. Take a deep dive into Berlin's past with an expert local guide as you explore some of Berlin's most popular attractions. Marvel at the Eastside open-air gallery along the Berlin Wall before heading to the old Jewish Quarter for a visit to its extraordinary museum. With so much to explore in the city, this optional excursion is the best way to see it all in a day!

Day 17: Berlin - Amsterdam

Location: Berlin, Amsterdam

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bid Berlin "lebewohl" this morning as the tour starts the journey back to the Netherlands. As the coach passes several scenic areas and landscapes, sit back, relax and soak up the stunning sights! Arrive back in Amsterdam later today and check into the last hotel. This evening is free to spend however you wish. A great option is spending the last night on tour digging into a delicious farewell dinner with your new travel family on this evening's optional excursion!

Day 18: End Of Tour In Amsterdam

Location: Amsterdam

Meals Included: Breakfast

We hope these 18 days of festive fun on this Northern Explorer Christmas & New Year tour made all of your festive travel dreams come true! After a final group breakfast, the tour concludes. Be sure to exchange contact information with your newfound travel friends to keep in touch around the world! We hope to see you on another enriching coach tour soon.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    16 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
    Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)
    1 night's accommodation in twin share cabin with private bathrooms ...more ...less

  • Transport

    Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
    Overnight ferry from Stockholm to Helsink
    Any public transport used as part of the tour days (excludes free days)

  • Meals

    17 Breakfasts, 7 Dinners*Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

  • Tour Leader

    Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
    Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

What's Not Included

  • International flights

    Travel to the start point and from the end point is not included.

    We recommend using Skyscanner to find the best deals on international flights.

  • Travel insurance

    For a relatively small price, travel insurance provides you with peace of mind so that you can enjoy your tour without any worries.

    All passengers travelling on an Expat Explore tour are required to have valid travel insurance cover and you are responsible for arranging your own insurance.

Mode of Transport

Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Overnight ferry from Stockholm to Helsink
Any public transport used as part of the tour days (excludes free days)

Accommodation

16 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenience
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)
1 night's accommodation in twin share cabin with private bathrooms

...more ...less

Traveller Comfort - *COACH* tours

We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.

Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.

Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.

We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.

For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.

With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.

For more information regarding traveller fitness please see our Terms and Conditions.
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Experiences

Visit a local Dutch cheese farm and clog factory
Enjoy a cruise along Amsterdam’s iconic canals
Welcome dinner in Amsterdam

Feel the festive atmosphere at Hamburg’s Christmas market

Tour Copenhagen; the capital of Denmark

Cruise from Helsingør to Helsingborg by ferry
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Swedish countryside
Visit Gothenburg; Sweden’s second city

See the highlights of Oslo with a local guide

Visit Orebro in the heart of Sweden
Visit Sigtuna; Sweden’s oldest town
Explore Stockholm with a local guide
Enjoy dinner in Stockholm

Catch an overnight ferry to Finland

Discover the highlights of Helsinki with a local guide
Enjoy a festive Christmas group dinner in Helsinki

Helsinki to Tallinn ferry crossing
Enjoy a walking tour of Tallinn with a local guide

Sightsee in Pärnu; a resort city in Estonia
Learn about Latvian history at the Latvian War Cemetery
See Riga on an orientation tour

See the Hill of Crosses; Lithuania
Explore Vilnius on an orientation tour
Visit Užupio Respublika; a self-proclaimed republic in Vilnius

Stop at Trakai, Europe's only historic national park
See Warsaw’s highlights on a driving tour

Explore Warsaw’s Old Town with a local guide

Explore Old Market Square in Poznan
See iconic sights on a walking and driving tour of Berlin
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Berlin

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Check out our Q&As

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point for the first day of your tour. Please see the meeting point information for details on how to reach the meeting point.

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    No, entrance fees are not included.

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    No, visas are each traveler’s personal responsibility, and we recommend that plenty of time is allowed for visas to be applied for. When applying for your visa, please ensure that the proper research is carried out before you apply, and that you deal directly with the embassies or certified agents with regard to acquiring correct and timely information. We cannot take responsibility for customers ...more ...less

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Our tours are not suitable for young children, so we set a minimum age limit of 10 years old.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting destination for the first day of your tour. Make sure you keep departure times and possible delays in mind when booking flights.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    All our tours are conducted in English.

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    We are committed to curating excellent travel experiences and to do so we need all of our travelers to feel safe.

    In order to ensure the peace of mind and safety of our travelers and staff on board the coach, we are still requesting that all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, produce a negative Covid test. This test can be a PCR test

  • Do you require a visa for this holiday?

    Certain nationalities may require a visa(s) for this tour.

  • Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?

    All of the hotels on this tour offer Wi-Fi, which is available free of charge as part of your Expat Explore tour.

  • Is the tour coach air conditioned?

    Yes, Full air-conditioning

  • Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

    Due to weight and space limitations, you are allowed to bring one main piece of luggage weighing no more than 20kg, and one small soft bag for hand luggage weighing a maximum of 7kg. On all tours, you will have to carry your own luggage (e.g. into hotels and up to your room if hotels don’t have elevators). Please bear this in mind when you are deciding what to pack

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our customer services team. Please note that the room provided may be a single room with a single bed.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    Yes, As detailed in the itinerary

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    All travellers are required to carry their own bags, get on and off the coach, and use public transport. Our city walking tours can last up to 3 hours and certain places involve walking up and down lots of steps. We want you to enjoy your tour, so read through the itinerary thoroughly and make your own conclusions as to whether you feel that you are fit and healthy enough.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    It depends on how many other people book! There could be up to 51 other passengers, so you will have the opportunity to make lots of friends!

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    We have searched and invested in excellent accommodation options, either located in cities or well placed with public transport connections. Clean linen, towels is always included. Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel etc) and hair dryers are not always included, so you may wish to bring these with you. Accommodation is provided in twin share en-suite rooms. We use a mix of mostly 2, 3 & 4-star hotels.

  • What is the tipping policy?

    Whilst we fully understand that some nationalities are not accustomed to tipping, this is a normal part of the culture in many of the countries we visit. Tipping has become an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis worldwide. Expat Explore crew members

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    A full list of confirmed accommodation names and addresses for your parWill I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?ticular departure will be emailed to you around 1 week before the tour starts.

  • Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

    Our travelers come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests.

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Our tour leaders come from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and interests. They are all confident and well-travelled with an in-depth knowledge of the destinations they are working in, and a passion for helping you make the most out of your Expat Explore tour.Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge - you will share a twin room with another passenger of the same gender. There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our team.

  • Children on tour?

    Our tours are not suitable for young children which is why we have a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email. Minors (between 10 and 18 years of age) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts full responsibility for them. Unaccompanied minors will not be accepted on tour. Expat Explore reserves the right to decline any booking at our discretion. Any minor (between 10 and 18 years of age) is priced the same as an adult.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    The health and safety of our travellers and employees are our top priority. Which means, when you travel with us, our enhanced hygiene protocols will ensure you do so in a safe and responsible way - ask for details of current policies.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 2005

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Expat Explore we value responsible travel and are committed to exploring the world consciously and kindly. We are proud to make responsible travel possible with a number of our sustainable travel practices!

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    Relate is a South African based not-for-profit organisation that Expat Explore supports. The group aims to help those less fortunate create better lives for themselves through a variety of fundraising initiatives. On our South Africa tours, each passenger will receive an Expat Explore branded Relate bracelet. We donate the cost of these bracelets to our chosen Relate charity: the Nelson Mandela Sc

Reviews of this operator

ANTHONY NDUNGU   ITALY

Balkan Explorer - 16 Days

03-Sep-2024

I had a blast!!!! Simply amazing and would highly recommend.

Roger  

Wonderful new addition

19-Oct-2022

Great new country and addition by Expat. One of the most interesting and beautiful countries I've ever been. Great food, scenery and lovely people.

Jamie the Kingslayer  

Everything I had expected and more

01-Oct-2022

It was my first time traveling to Europe so I was nervous about everything including finding my way around, speaking the languages, and finding lodging. It turned out to be an incredible experience, I couldn't ask for a better your guide. Luke truly is the best in the business and we were so lucky o have him on the last tour of the season. I am definitely going to recommend Expat to my family and friends when they want to travel to Europe. I am going to go as far as finding out when Luke will be the guide and have family/friends specifically book the tour with him. ...more ...less

Randy  

Outstanding!

25-Sep-2022

From orientation to farewell dinner Martina was always there to ensure that everyone was happy and enjoying the tour! It was fast paced, especially with the added excursions, but the tour covered the best of Italy and Martina was absolutely the best. She was entertaining and informative. Look forward to another tour with her!! ...more ...less

Emma  

Perfect combination of sites, history, culture and food

19-Oct-2022

The highlights of Japan tour with Expat Explore was the ideal way to see the country. It had the perfect mix of big cities, small quaint villages, historical sites and food! The tour was well organised and a good pace to enjoy the various places and activities. We had the opportunity to be immersed in local culture and try the cuisine in a range of dining experiences. The hotels were clean and roomy to rest for days filled with adventures. Japan with Expat should be on your wish list! ...more ...less

CCY  

Good experience

07-Oct-2022

Enjoyed the views of different places and learnt about the history of different places in UK/Ireland.

Kendra Olson   United States

Classic Europe - 14 Days

03-Apr-2024

Such a great trip and saw so many places, if we did this trip on our own I think we would only get half of what we did done in this time period. It definitely was busy with not much down time but we didn’t pay to go be bored. Beautiful and memorable trip! ...more ...less

Travelling Solo  

12 Day Italian Delights

18-Oct-2022

A great tour made even better by our tour leader Marty. She was so knowledgeable and helpful. Made us laugh, showed us amazing sites and always had great recommendations.

Tash  

Really nice experience

26-Oct-2022

Loved the small country towns. Very beautiful MARTY AND ALEX THE DRIVER , made the tour experience perfect for me. She is a brilliant guide.

Disappointed  

Totally exhausted

05-Oct-2022

I need a holiday to recover from this full-on, insufficient down time, tour. Late hotel arrivals, late city tours, late dinners and excessive walking due to public transport use and then early morning starts. And to top it off, no seat rotation (tour leader advised on day 2 for covid reasons) which made sense on day 2 but not by day 3 or 4 when we had been grouped together at meals, on walking tours, and sharing rooms with people we had just met...merrily spreading our germs between our group anyway! This seating rule however was waived for a special few...those who insisted that they get travel sickness (and must sit in the front seat) and..those who think the rule is not for them and aren't challenged by the tour leader anyway. No seat rotation also meant not getting the opportunity to get to know everyone on the tour on an equal basis. ...more ...less

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Saturday

Dec 17, 2025 - Jan 03, 2026
$3425 $3025 (USD)

Operator discount: -$400 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Expat Explore Travel allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 91 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Expat Explore Travel requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of expat explore travel charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.

    At 44 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Northern Explorer Christmas & New Year

18 Days Starting and ending in Hotel in Amsterdam

Visiting: Amsterdam, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Helsingør, Gothenburg, Oslo, Örebro, Stockholm, Sigtuna, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Hill of Crosses, Vilnius, Trakai, Warsaw, Poznań, Berlin ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Expat Explore Travel

Tour code:

ENXMASNY

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

10 - 51

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

10-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Active, Special Events

From: $3425 $3025 (USD) Operator discount: -$400 -12%

NB: Prices correct on 04-Feb-2025 but subject to change.