Mediterranean Journey - Start London, Small Group
Mediterranean Journey - Start London, Small Group
$7525
Mediterranean Journey - Start London, Small Group
18 Days Starting in London and ending in Rome
Visiting: London, Paris, Loire Valley, Chateau Chenonceau, Bordeaux, Donostia-San Sebastian, Madrid, Barcelona, Avignon, Nice, Monaco City, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa, Florence, Rome, Vatican
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
Marvel at Gaudi’s masterpieces in Barcelona, spot locals sipping pastis in Nice and admire Florence the home of Michelangelo's David, as you circle the azure waters of the Mediterranean. Embrace a day of Pisa sightseeing with a stop at the famous leaning tower, where Italian astronomer Galileo was said to have pioneered his theories of gravity. In France, work up an appetite in the medieval streets before a sumptuous farm-to-table dinner in Avignon with a menu that showcases traditional French, home-style cuisine. In Spain, dine with the locals in Basque tradition with an evening of San Sebastian pintxos tastings, snack-sized tapas, while sipping on a refreshing glass of local Txakoli wine. In Rome, the dish du jour is, of course, handmade pasta and seasonal flavors.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through a local food market - Bastille Marché. Visit a variety of stalls and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
- Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.
Top Rated Highlights
- London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
- Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.
- Chateau Chenonceau: Visit the majestic Château de Chenonceau, known as the 'Ladies' Château' it perfectly embodies the elegance of 16th century design in the Loire Valley.
- Bordeaux: Your Local Expert will show you the quayside facades, Grand Theater, Triangle d'Or and magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces.
- San Sebastián: Led by your Local Expert, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter including Plaza de la Constitucion.
- Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Expert. Visit the Old Town, traveling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the fountain in the Plaza de Cibeles, the Cervantes Monument and Royal Palace, before crossing the Puerta del Sol.
- Barcelona: With your Local Expert, drive along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture as you journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
- Avignon: View the Pont d'Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes.
- Nice: Enjoy exploring the beautiful coastal town of Nice on the French Riviera.
- Monaco City: Enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit and wander the old town with your Travel Director to see the Royal Palace and the yacht-filled harbor.
- Monaco City: Explore inside Monaco Cathedral.
- Pisa: Your Local Expert will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, and the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th-century cathedral - the famous Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles.
- Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
- Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
Authentic Dining
Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.
Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through a local food market - Bastille Marché. Visit a variety of stalls and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
San Sebastián: Enjoy an evening of pintxos, dining with locals in this Basque tradition. Your delicious dinner includes a wide variety of finger food delicacies, each with their own regional flavor, flair and presentation.
Avignon: At a local farm learn about olive oil and enjoy a tasting of the freshest produce before indulging in a farm-to-table dinner of traditional French home-style cuisine.
Rome: Toast your Mediterranean journey with delicious Italian cuisine and wine.
Insight Choice
Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To London
Location: London
Accommodation: Park Plaza Victoria, London.
Accommodation Name: Thistle Marble Arch, London
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge? Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
Day 2: London To Paris By Eurostar
Location: London, Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meet your Travel Director and after a warm welcome, transfer to London’s St. Pancras Station to board the high-speed Eurostar. Your comfortable rail journey takes you via the Channel Tunnel to Paris where you can spend the afternoon as you please. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral and the imposing facades of the Louvre. Discover the banks of the River Seine with its many romantic bridges, see the obelisk in the center of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe. Later, join your Travel Director at a local restaurant in the heart of Paris for a fabulous Welcome Dinner.
Day 3: Paris, The City Of Light
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your exploration of Paris today begins with an Insight Choice. Choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district. Alternatively, join a Local Expert, an avid foodie, as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. With the afternoon free, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this glittering city.
Day 4: Onto Bordeaux
Location: Paris, Loire Valley, Chateau Chenonceau, Bordeaux
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Novotel Gare St Jean, Bordeaux
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head southwards towards Châteaux Country. Take a scenic drive along the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is known as the Jardins de France for the beautifully maintained gardens created on vast estates as outdoor living areas. Visit the majestic Chenonceau Castle, an elegant French château spanning the River Cher. Continue on to the bustling in-land port of Bordeaux with its unique 18th century character.
Day 5: Bordeaux And San Sebastián
Location: Bordeaux, Donostia-San Sebastian
Accommodation: Novotel Bordeaux Gare St Jean
Accommodation Name: Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastián
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Expert for a guided tour of France's best 18th century architecture. The facades of the quaysides, the Grand Théâtre, Triangle d'Or and magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces all contributed to Bordeaux earning inclusion on UNESCO's World Heritage list. Next, continue to picturesque San Sebastián where you will have the chance to dine with the locals in the evening. In small groups, wander through the Old Town for a progressive dinner, as you enjoy the gastronomic Basque tradition of pintxos. Similar to tapas, enjoy a variety of snack-sized treats to make your meal and be sure to try some of the local Txakoli wine.
Day 6: On To Madrid Relaxed Start
Location: Donostia-San Sebastian, Madrid
Accommodation: Barceló Costa Vasca, San Sebastián.
Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza España, Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue through the mountains and gorges of the north and emerge from the tunnel in the Sierra de Guadarrama onto the plateau of New Castile and Spain's elegant capital of Madrid. In the evening, why not see the city lit up it all its glory, with a drive along the grand avenues and past the spectacular fountains?
Day 7: Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel Riu Plaza España, Madrid.
Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza España, Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join your Local Expert for a sightseeing tour of the Old Town as well as, along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana and past the fountain in the Plaza de Cibeles. Enjoy sightseeing with your Local Expert, as they guide you through the most historic neighborhoods in the Spanish capital. Your drive continues through the Old Quarter to discover the origins of the city. Visit the Reina Sofía Museum with an art historian to see Picasso's Guernica.
Day 8: Madrid And Beautiful Barcelona
Location: Madrid, Barcelona
Accommodation: Hotel Riu Plaza España, Madrid.
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the Castilian plain, past Zaragoza, and continue to the vibrant port of Barcelona. In the evening, why not try delicious local Catalan cuisine and as night descends, view the city from the heights of Montjuic, with lights sparkling below from the mountains to sea.
Day 9: Barcelona, City Of Gaudi
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation: Hilton Barcelona.
Accommodation Name: Hilton, Barcelona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join your Local Expert to explore the heart of the Gothic Quarter. See the cathedral and walk through the Roman gate to tour the narrow lanes and old squares. Travel by the Ramblas and along the Passeig de Gràcia. Continue through the Eixample district to see Gaudi’s extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
Day 10: Avignon, The City Of Popes
Location: Barcelona, Avignon
Accommodation: Hilton Barcelona.
Accommodation Name: Novotel Center, Avignon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to Avignon to see the famous Pont d'Avignon, once spanning the Rhône and immortalized in songs. Walk within the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to stand in the shadow of the old Palais des Papes, resembling a fortress. Learn about olive oil and enjoy a tasting of the freshest produce. After, indulge in a Farm-to-Table dinner, a delicious insight into traditional French home-style cuisine.
Day 11: On The Shores Of Nice
Location: Avignon, Nice
Accommodation: Novotel Avignon Center
Accommodation Name: Apollinaire, Nice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey along the French Riviera to the elegant town of Nice, where the rest of the day is at your leisure to stroll along the fabled Promenade des Anglais or relax on the beach.
Day 12: Monaco And Pisa
Location: Nice, Monaco City, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa, Florence
Accommodation: Hotel Apollinaire
Accommodation Name: NH Firenze, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Monaco where you are driven along part of the Grand Prix circuit, before walking with your Travel Director through the old town. See the Royal Palace where the Grimaldi family live, the yacht-filled harbor and visit the cathedral, housing the tombs of the late Prince Rainier and Princess Grace. Cross into Italy and follow the arc of the Italian Riviera before arriving in Pisa. In the Square of Miracles, stop to see the incredible Leaning Tower of Pisa with a Local Expert, from which Galileo is said to have conducted experiments on velocity and gravity. Also see the splendid 11th century cathedral and baptistery, decorated with mosaics and designs in solid marble.
Day 13: Pisa And Florence
Location: Nice, Pisa, Florence
Accommodation: NH Firenze, Florence.
Accommodation Name: NH Firenze
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross into Italy and follow the arc of the Italian Riviera before arriving in Pisa. In the Square of Miracles, stop to see the incredible Leaning Tower of Pisa with a Local Expert, from which Galileo is said to have conducted experiments on velocity and gravity. Also see the splendid 11th-century cathedral and baptistery, decorated with mosaics and designs in solid marble. Continue through Tuscany to the captivating city of Florence.
Day 14: Florence Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Florence
Accommodation: NH Firenze, Florence.
Accommodation Name: NH Firenze, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk with your Local Expert to the marble-clad cathedral and baptistery, where Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise have been recreated in all their glory. The next stop is Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at statues such as Neptune and David along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. The area around Santa Croce Basilica is famous for the quality of its luxury goods of gold and leather and there's free time to shop or continue exploring.
Day 15: The Eternal City Of Rome
Location: Florence, Rome
Accommodation: Radisson Blu GHR Rome.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. Relax and enjoy the grand landscapes of the Chianti hills and Umbria, before passing the Apennine Mountains to arrive at the Eternal City, filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches. In the evening, what better way to toast the culmination of your Mediterranean journey, than with delicious Italian cuisine and wine.
Day 16: Exploring Papal Rome
Location: Rome, Vatican, Rome
Accommodation: Radisson Blu GHR Rome.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
A Local Expert introduces the grandeur of the city, starting with the Vatican State, the richest community on the world. Visit the Vatican Museums, full of priceless treasures collected by the Popes. Once inside the Sistine Chapel, admire Michelangelo's famous ceiling. Next door, visit St. Peter’s Basilica to admire Michelangelo's emotive 'Pieta' and see Bernini's intricately carved Papal Altar. The afternoon is yours to shop in the trendy boutiques or relax at a sidewalk cafe before an exclusive after-hours visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes.
Day 17: Rome At Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Radisson Blu GHR Rome.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
The day is yours to enjoy Rome at your own pace. Perhaps take an optional experience to the ill-fated town of Pompeii, frozen in time when it was engulfed by an eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. Alternatively, spend some time in the boutiques of the Via del Corso, the Via Nazionale or the elegant designer stores near the Spanish Steps? As night falls, why not sip on prosecco at a sidewalk cafe in Piazza Navona - the Living Room of Rome - and enjoy life's pageantry pass by?
Day 18: Arrivederci Roma
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to the glories of Italy.
What's Included
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Meals
16 Breakfasts and 5 Dinners with Wine are included.
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Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Paris and Madrid.
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Local Experiences
Join local experts for guided tours and unique experiences in various cities.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights without missing any commentary.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you don't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency.
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Porterage
Porterage is included, with your bags being carried and delivered to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, a local specialty representing the destination.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
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Welcome Dinner
Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of Paris for a delightful Welcome Dinner, served with wine.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as visiting the Colosseum in Rome or the ill-fated town of Pompeii are not included.
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Additional Transfers
Transfers outside the scheduled times or for additional nights' accommodation are not included and may be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as shopping, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Flights
Flights to and from the start and end locations are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with high-speed Eurostar from London to Paris, and enjoy the comfort of Insight’s luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Transfers are available at scheduled times for arrival and departure flights.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at a variety of well-appointed hotels including Park Plaza Victoria in London, Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, Novotel Bordeaux Gare St Jean, Barceló Costa Vasca in San Sebastián, Hotel Riu Plaza España in Madrid, Hilton Barcelona, Novotel Avignon Center, Hotel Apollinaire in Nice, NH Firenze in Florence, and Radisson Blu GHR Rome.
Dining Summary
- 17 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Vatican: Visit the Vatican Museums, witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and see St. Peter's Basilica.
- Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities can I choose from in Paris?
In Paris, you can choose to explore community life in the picturesque Montorgueil district or join a Local Expert, an avid foodie, to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies.
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What unique experience is offered in Madrid related to the women's movement?
In Madrid, you can join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on a neighborhood walking tour to learn about the history of women's movements in Spain.
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What special access do we get at the Vatican Museums?
At the Vatican Museums, you will have special, fast-tracked entry to avoid the crowds, along with behind-the-scenes access to the Bramante Staircase, a marvel of Renaissance architecture normally off-limits to the general public.
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What is the dining experience like in San Sebastián?
In San Sebastián, you will have the chance to dine with the locals in the evening. In small groups, you will wander through the Old Town for a progressive dinner, enjoying the gastronomic Basque tradition of pintxos, which are similar to tapas.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa?
During the visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, you will see the incredible Leaning Tower with a Local Expert, from which Galileo is said to have conducted experiments on velocity and gravity. You will also see the splendid 11th-century cathedral and baptistery, decorated with mosaics and designs in solid marble.
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What kind of dinner is included in Avignon?
In Avignon, you will indulge in a Farm-to-Table dinner, which provides a delicious insight into traditional French home-style cuisine.
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What are some of the highlights of the guided tour in Bordeaux?
In Bordeaux, the guided tour includes seeing the facades of the quaysides, the Grand Théâtre, Triangle d'Or, and the magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces, all of which contributed to Bordeaux's inclusion on UNESCO's World Heritage list.
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What can I do during my free time in Nice?
During your free time in Nice, you can stroll along the fabled Promenade des Anglais or relax on the beach.
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What is the final dinner experience in Rome like?
In Rome, the final dinner experience includes toasting the culmination of your Mediterranean journey with delicious Italian cuisine and wine.
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What optional experiences are available in Rome?
In Rome, optional experiences include visiting the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, or taking a trip to the ill-fated town of Pompeii, which was frozen in time when it was engulfed by an eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 25, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.
