Ride Icelandic horses across lava fields near Reykjavík, go hunting for truffles with a dog named Nela in Prague, or hang out with the entrepreneurs behind some of Estonia’s most successful startups. There are some amazing tours being run by locals in Europe – and we’ve put together a list of our favourites!
Here are our top 24 ‘must try’ authentic experiences for travellers who want to truly connect with new cultures and landscapes in 2019….
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1. Hunt for truffles in Prague
Uncover the secrets of this mysterious and highly prized mushroom as you set off on a truffle hunting expedition with one of Prague’s most famous hunters and his dog, Nela. If you love the taste of truffles, you’ll love the world-class meal at the end of this tour!
2. Gallop across lava fields in Reykjavík
Imagine the thrill of galloping across an epic landscape on the back of a beautiful Icelandic horse. This breathtaking tour will allow you to immerse yourself in nature on the outskirts of Reykjavík– and it doesn’t matter if you’ve never ridden a horse before.
3. Brainstorm with Tallinn’s top entrepreneurs
Some of the world’s coolest startups began in Estonia including Skype and Transferwise. In fact, Tallinn is teaming with entrepreneurial success stories and this tour gives you the chance to hang out with some of the brains behind these inspiring businesses.
4. Get ‘hygge’ and happy in Copenhagen
Discover why Danes are some of the happiest people in the world by taking a tour led by super smiley locals who will teach you the art of ‘hygge’. This Danish word relates to a feeling of inner contentment, and we guarantee you’ll leave this tour feeling warm and fuzzy inside!
5. Treat your taste buds to beer and chocolates in Brussels
Could there be anything better than a day of feasting on Belgian chocolates and downing local beer in Brussels? This tasty city tour will give you the chance to sample some of the finest boutique brews in the nation as well as devour many delectable handmade chocolate delights.
6. Cruise the canals of Amsterdam
He loves his city. He owns a boat. He wants to show you the best that Amsterdam has to offer on a private canal cruise! This truly unique tour allows you to hop on Chris’ beautiful 20ft. boat and let him guide you to famous sights and hidden gems.
7. Discover the secrets of Leonardo da Vinci in Milan
It’s one of the most famous pictures ever painted and this private tour of Santa Maria delle Grazie offers you the chance to get up close and personal with ‘The Last Supper’ – as well as learn some fascinating facts about its creator.
8. Go boho in Moscow
Moscow’s bohemian district is teaming with modern art and street culture. Would you like to buy a one-of-a-kind artisan gift while exploring the hipster cafes and galleries in this special part of the city? If so, then this is the tour for you.
9. Take a day trip to the fairytale village of Hallstatt
Picture the cutest little village, set on a blue-water lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Where is this fairy tale place? Hallstatt! Wander the narrow streets of this quaint town and take in the majesty of the Lake Region on this inspiring day trip from Vienna.
10. From punk rock to Britpop in Camden
Where did The Doors give their only UK performance? In what pub did Amy Winehouse like to play pool? Join our local guide for an intriguing tour of Camden’s music history and discover why Prince had an eternal love affair with this funky London suburb.
11. Lose yourself in the magic of Estonia’s Lahemaa National Park
Towering pine trees, mysterious bogs, pristine coastlines – there’s a good reason why Lahemaa National Park is one of the most impressive tourist attractions in Estonia. Learn about the local history and immerse yourself in natural beauty by booking this day trip.
12. Ride around Warsaw in a retro Nysa 522 minivan
Get to know the cool places where Varsovians hang out by hopping in an old minivan and cruising around Warsaw with your local guide. You’ll discover some very quirky facts about this fascinating city and get the chance to head to historic sights where few tourists go.
Photo by: Adventure Warsaw
13. Adopt a dog (for an hour or two) in Bratislava
Listen up dog lovers! This unique experience gives you the opportunity to help an animal shelter, as well as enjoy the beauty of the forests of Bratislava. You’ll have the chance to go to a dog shelter, choose a puppy, and then go for a walk in the forest together.
14. Marvel at the mountains of Kazbegi
Discover the UNESCO listed Jvari Monastery. See the stunning Zhinvali Reservoir. Visit the charming Ananuri Fortress. Marvel at the mountains in this epic region of Georgia as you venture on a day trip from Tbilisi to Kazbegi with Giga as your guide.
15. Eat your way around Berlin
Currywurst, pretzels, apple strudel, potato pancakes…are you feeling hungry yet? This is a tour for foodies! Feast on the finest Berliner cuisine when you book this tour, which includes 10 tastings as well as a few pints of locally brewed beer.
16. Sip on champagne as you tour through Paris
No trip to Paris would be complete without sampling some of the city’s divine sparkling wine – a symbol of sophistication and elegance throughout history. You’ll get the chance to visit three different champagne houses on this delightful tour, which includes a delicious lunch at a family-run Champagne winery.
17. Meet the ghosts of Prague
What ghosts and gothic horrors lurk in the dark shadows of Prague’s past? The only way to find out is to walk the city’s cobblestone streets with a professional storyteller who will share tales of terror and gloom on this tour of the Old Town. You’ll be surprised by what you find in Prague’s alleyways after dark!
18. Be hypnotised by Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul
It would be hard to find a more hypnotic style of dance than that performed by the Sufi Whirling Dervishes and this tour gives you a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness this tradition, which dates back more than 800 years.
19. Pedal to the best street art in Madrid
Whether you’re a street art lover or just a keen bike rider, this three-hour tour will take you on an adventure through the hipster neighbourhoods of Lavapiés, Malasaña and Embajadores in Madrid where your guide will tell you the colourful stories behind the graffiti.
Photo by: Cooltourspain
20. Kayak after dark in Riga
Paddle down waterways that are illuminated by Riga’s city lights as you explore the Latvian capital from the water. This night kayak tour takes you along Daugava River, past landmarks and monuments, and then down Riga canal. You’ll see the city from a very different point of view!
21. Hop on a wooden bicycle in Athens
Have you ever ridden a wooden bike? Would you like the chance to do so in one of the world’s most fascinating historical cities? This quirky tour allows you to hop on an eco-friendly wooden bike for a Grecian sightseeing tour.
Photo by: Pascal Panagiotidis
22. Learn about Esrid the Viking in Stockholm
She was a rich and powerful Swedish woman who lived in the 11thcentury. You’ll hear all about her stirring family story as you explore a Viking burial site on this tour. You’ll walk through ruins, see gravestones, and learn a whole lot about these bloodthirsty explorers of the past on this day tour from Stockholm.
23. Tiptoe across the rooftops of St. Petersburg
If you’re afraid of heights then keep scrolling! This tour is all about giving you a bird’s-eye view of the Russian port city of St. Petersburg. Your guide will lead you across a series of rooftops – allowing you to look down on some of the city’s most charming landmarks. Be prepared for epic sunset views.
24. Feast like a local in Lisbon
There’s a pastry shop in Campo de Ourique that claims to have the world’s best sponge cake and you’ll be able to enjoy a slice! Explore Lisbon’s trendiest neighbourhood on this food and cultural tour that will allow you to lap up local life, as well as feast on some delectable delights.