See It In Style: 8 Ultra-Luxurious Tours of Europe

Seeing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia on a bucket list Europe tour - Luxury Escapes

Transform your bucket list into a reality with some of Europe’s most luxurious tours and experiences.

Have you ever dreamed of seeing the Northern Lights in Lapland or drifting through the canals of Venice? Teeming with natural wonders, enchanting cityscapes and cultural treasures, Europe is guaranteed to make dreams come true – even ones you didn’t realise you had. Better yet, you can discover it all with five-star accommodation, sumptuous all-inclusive dining and private transportation on a selection of Ultra-Lux tours.

Keep reading to discover some of the best Europe tours to tick off those dream destinations and experiences.

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Northern Lights and husky sledding in Lapland

A must-see for most, aurora borealis is an out-of-this-world display that can only be seen in specific and remote areas of the world – and northern Europe is one of them. On this Finland and Norway winter tour, you can marvel at the cosmic hues of the aurora and take in all that this magical region has to offer. Sleep beneath the starlit sky in a glass igloo and cross the snowy plains on a snowmobile or husky-led sled, all while capping your experience off with lavish accommodation and local gourmet dining. From an enchanting restaurant crafted entirely from ice, to five nights aboard a breathtaking fjord cruise, you are truly in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Lavish train travel and mountain ranges across central Europe

For those seeking Italian romance and mesmerising alpine scenery, the Grand Alpine Express is the ultimate European adventure. From a private concert by the Vienna Supreme Orchestra to an exquisite stay in the heart of Venice, this central Europe tour promises spectacular and unique experiences. To top it off, you’ll spend six nights aboard the prestigious Golden Eagle Danube Express as you pass through Hungary, Austria, Switzerland, Italy and Slovenia. Take in awe-inspiring views from your Deluxe Cabin as you make your way through Austria’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed Semmering Pass and the jaw-dropping Swiss Alps. With all-inclusive dining in the train’s bar and dining cars along the way, you can sit back and delight in the tranquil beauty of this remarkable part of Europe with a glass of sparkling in hand.

Luxury supercars and fine dining in Italy

One for the thrill-seekers, this supercar driving tour will have you racing through the rolling hills and historic towns of Tuscany in latest-release luxury sports cars from Porsche, Ferrari and Lamborghini. In between testing out the gears of each supercar, you’ll be treated to all-inclusive gourmet wining and dining at the likes of Michelin-starred Borgo San Jacopo in Florence and award-winning winery Tenuta Torciano. Sample some of Italy’s finest wines and try your hand at truffle hunting, all in the picturesque setting of Tuscany’s breathtaking countryside. To commemorate your Italian escapade, a professional photographer and videographer will be on-hand throughout the tour to capture you behind the wheel of each luxury supercar.

Winter wonderland in central Europe

Step into a snowy fairytale, sipping mulled wine and savouring traditional chimney cakes across Europe’s most historic Christmas markets. Experience Austrian, German and Hungarian winter festivities as you cross each country aboard the opulent Golden Eagle Danube Express, stopping along the way to delight in the dreamlike Christmas cheer. Take in the allure of Vienna as you cross its historic streets in a horse-drawn carriage, walk the halls of Salzburg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mirabell Palace, and luxuriate in the Golden Age splendour of old Budapest with a lavish stay at Hotel Gresham Palace.

Fantastic fjords and Norwegian countryside in Scandinavia

Take in the striking scenery of Norway, Denmark and Sweden as you spend an extraordinary 14 days aboard this discovery tour. Famed for its snow-capped peaks and icy glaciers, this magical region of Europe is equally as breathtaking during its warmer months. Cross the crystalline waters of Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, marvel at the picture-book-perfect valleys and rolling rivers of the Norwegian countryside and discover the spectacular beauty of Stockholm. Loaded with pinch-me moments and bucket-list experiences, this tour is bound to leave you in awe.

Medieval ramparts and fine dining in Croatia

Whether you’re a history fan, a foodie or seeking all-round indulgence, an Ultra-Lux Croatia tour has it all. From walking the medieval ramparts of Dubrovnik to an exclusive Chef’s Table experience at a Hvar winery, you can revel in Croatia’s cultural wonders and delight your palate all in one. Cinema lovers can opt for a tour of Game of Thrones shooting locations with a guide who worked as an extra on the show, while those after something more active can paddle around Dubrovnik’s Old Town and Lokrum Island on a kayak. For an extra touch of indulgence, enjoy breakfast in bed on select days and a stay at the lavish Palace Elisabeth in Hvar.

Champagne vineyards and alpine vistas on the Orient Express

If there’s one rail journey to include on your bucket list, it’s the historic Orient Express route from Istanbul to Paris.  Spend five nights aboard the ultra-luxurious Golden Eagle Danube Express and bask in the luxury of a private cabin attendant and all-inclusive dining and free-flow drinks as you cross the rugged Balkans, through the Semmering Pass and into France’s Champagne landscapes. Tick off surreal bucket-list experiences along the way, including a subterranean visit to Slovenia’s Postojna Caves, complete with a live saxophone accompaniment, and an exclusive ‘rakija’ fruit brandy tasting experience in Serbia. End your journey in the spectacular City of Light, with a high-end Parisian stay as the cherry on top of the cake.

Historic castles and private concerts in Eastern Europe

This 12-day Ultra-Lux rail journey takes you on an immersive voyage through Eastern Europe’s storied past aboard the regal Golden Eagle Danube Express. The usual luxe touches like private ensuites, plush lounge areas, free-flow drinks, and elegant bar and dining cars will allow you to roam through Hungary, Poland, Germany, Czech Republic and Austria in absolute comfort. Deep dive into each country’s rich history with visits to Wackerbarth Castle, Malbork Castle, Hellbrunn Palace and more, and bask in the luxury of exclusive shows such as a private Chopin piano recital in Warsaw and an exclusive concert at the Palais Auersperg in Vienna.

Need more inspiration? Read How To Pick The Right Cruise For You.

Feature image: Unsplash.

Written by Sabina Sobczak

Based in Barcelona but rarely staying put, Sabina is happiest while exploring, photographing and writing about dreamy destinations. When the travel budget is maxed out, you can find her soaking up the Spanish sun and enjoying anything active and outdoors.
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