Travel Beyond the Expected
At Authentic Explorations, our Travel Offerings are designed to bring travelers closer to the places, people, and traditions that define Europe’s most captivating destinations. Whether joining one of our thoughtfully crafted small group journeys or adding a distinctive cultural experience to a custom itinerary, each program reflects our commitment to authenticity, exceptional access, and seamless travel.
Small Group Journeys
Travel Deeper, Together, Through Food, Culture, and Place
Our Small Group Journeys bring together the best of Authentic Explorations through thoughtfully curated itineraries across Italy, Spain, Portugal, Scotland, and beyond.
Each journey combines exceptional food and wine, cultural immersion, and meaningful local encounters, revealing both celebrated landmarks and the places and stories found beyond the expected.
Typically spanning 7–10 nights with a limited number of travelers, each journey is led by expert guides and supported by seamless planning throughout. The result is an intimate and engaging way to experience Europe, with the right balance of discovery, comfort, and connection.
Most Small Group Journeys include:
Premium accommodations
Daily breakfast plus select lunches and dinners
Expert English-speaking guides
Private transfers and transportation throughout the journey
All major entrance fees and activity tickets
A dedicated Authentic Explorations host or trip manager
All gratuities (excluding local guide gratuities when applicable)
24/7 in-destination support
Perfect For: Couples, friends, solo travelers, and discerning explorers who enjoy traveling with like-minded guests while experiencing a destination through curated, meaningful encounters.
Upcoming Group Journeys
Explore upcoming departures featuring immersive itineraries, curated experiences, and limited group availability.
Culinary Tour of Calabria 2027
May 30 - June 6, 2027
Starting at: $7,985 per person
(based on double occupancy, single supplement available)
Experience the heart of Calabria through stays at exceptional coastal resorts overlooking the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas, visits to Tropea, Pizzo, Scilla, Le Castella, and lesser-known villages, and encounters with some of the region’s most treasured traditions. Discover the legendary Riace Bronzes, meet local producers of peperoncino, Tropea onions, olive oil, wine, and silk, and step into the kitchen for private cooking classes rooted in generations of Calabrian heritage. Along the way, enjoy outstanding local cuisine, from intimate family-run restaurants to refined seaside dining, including a wine tasting at Ceraudo Winery followed by dinner at Michelin-starred Dattilo.
Journey Highlights
Luxury Coastal Stays — Stay at two of Calabria’s finest resorts overlooking the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas.
Historic Towns & Hidden Villages — Discover Tropea, Pizzo, Scilla, Le Castella, and lesser-known Calabrian communities.
Flavors of Calabria — Meet producers of Tropea onions, peperoncino, and award-winning olive oils.
Calabrian Culinary Traditions — Enjoy private cooking classes and exceptional dining, from family-run favorites to refined seaside restaurants.
Wine & Michelin-Starred Dining — Taste wines at Ceraudo Winery followed by dinner at Michelin-starred Dattilo.
Culture & Craftsmanship — See the legendary Riace Bronzes and discover Italy’s only surviving complete silk-production community in San Floro.
From Kilts and Bagpipes to Haggis and Scotch Whisky, Scotland Awaits!
October 16–22, 2027
Starting at $14,875 per person
(based on double occupancy; single supplement available)
Join Sal and Gary for six unforgettable nights exploring two very different sides of Scotland. We begin in the Cairngorms, one of the country’s most spectacular regions, where dramatic mountains, ancient forests, lochs, and vast Highland landscapes surround the village of Braemar. From there, we journey to historic St Andrews on Scotland’s east coast, where medieval heritage, beautiful coastline, and a vibrant food scene come together. Along the way, we’ll experience Scotland through its food, whisky, landscapes, and traditions—from falconry and a fire-cooked Highland feast to hands-on cooking, coastal villages, Scotch tastings, kilts, and a lively farewell ceilidh.
Journey Highlights
Six Nights in Scotland — Spend three nights at The Fife Arms in Braemar, surrounded by the landscapes and Highland heritage of the Cairngorms, followed by three nights at Seaton House in historic St Andrews.
The Scottish Highlands — Discover the Cairngorms through falconry, Highland landscapes and traditions, and a memorable fire-cooked BBQ at Glen Dye.
Food, Fire & Scottish Flavors — Get hands-on in the kitchen at Ballintaggart Farm, discover St Andrews through its local food scene, and enjoy five lunches and five dinners showcasing Scottish ingredients and traditions.
Scotch Whisky — Gather fireside for an intimate whisky tasting with Katy and visit Kingsbarns Distillery to discover the craft and traditions behind Scotland’s most celebrated spirit.
St Andrews & the East Neuk — Explore historic St Andrews before venturing along the coast to the picturesque fishing villages of the East Neuk, known for their harbors, seafood, and unmistakable sense of place.
Kilts & a Scottish Ceilidh — Embrace Highland tradition with your own kilt experience before coming together for a festive final evening and traditional Scottish ceilidh.
Everything Taken Care Of — Six breakfasts, five lunches, five dinners with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, all scheduled experiences and ground transportation, gratuities, and VAT are included. Airport transfers are not included.
Explore Our Destinations
From coastal villages and wine regions to historic cities and countryside retreats, discover the places that shape our curated experiences.
Signature Experiences
Extraordinary Moments, Thoughtfully Woven Into Your Journey
Our Signature Experiences are specially curated opportunities designed to elevate a broader Authentic Explorations itinerary. Typically spanning 2–3 nights, these experiences center around distinctive culinary, cultural, seasonal, sporting, or wellness moments, offering another layer of discovery and access within your travels.
From limited-availability chef collaborations and immersive wine experiences to celebrated cultural events, holiday traditions, sporting occasions, and restorative retreats, each Signature Experience is selected for its ability to transform a few days of a journey into something truly memorable.
Please Note: Signature Experiences are exclusively available as part of a larger Authentic Explorations itinerary and cannot be booked as standalone experiences. Our team will thoughtfully incorporate each experience into a broader, tailor-made journey.
Most Signature Experiences Include:
Transportation to and from the experience destination
Two to three nights in luxury accommodations
Welcome dinner to begin the experience
The featured Signature Experience, including curated activities and lunch
Farewell dinner to conclude the program
On-site coordination and support
Perfect For: Travelers looking to enhance their custom itinerary with a distinctive experience that offers rare access, deeper cultural immersion, or a special moment tied to a destination’s traditions.
Current Experience Offerings
European Holiday Shopping Experiences 2027
6-Day Holiday Shopping Experience in Paris
There is no place quite like Paris during the holidays, when sparkling streets, festive markets, and legendary department stores transform the City of Light. This six-day journey for up to 14 guests pairs five-star accommodations with private access, exceptional dining, and curated holiday shopping.
From champagne overlooking the Eiffel Tower and a private Fragonard fragrance experience to Versailles and Parisian ateliers, discover the culture, cuisine, and timeless elegance of the season.
European Holiday Shopping Experiences 2027
7-Day Holiday Tour- Christmas Magic Between Lugano & Milan
Celebrate the season across Lugano and Milan, where Alpine charm meets Italian style. From festive markets and Swiss chocolate-making to Milan’s iconic boutiques and La Scala, this journey captures the essence of a European Noël through five-star stays, exceptional dining, and memorable holiday traditions.
3-Day Emilia Romagna Ferrari Car Racing Experience
Experience the thrill of Ferrari and Italy’s Motor Valley on a three-day journey through Emilia-Romagna. From the racetrack and Ferrari’s legendary heritage to Michelin-starred dining, exceptional wines, and regional traditions, this limited-availability experience celebrates Italian performance, cuisine, and craftsmanship.
Truffle Experiences
White Truffle Legacy: 3 Days in Piemonte
Enter the coveted world of Piemonte’s white truffles on this three-day seasonal journey. Hunt alongside expert trifolau, discover centuries-old traditions, and experience the renowned Alba White Truffle World Market at the height of truffle season.
Truffle Experiences
White Truffle Legacy: 3 Days in Tuscany
Discover Tuscany’s white truffle traditions on this three-day journey centered around San Miniato. Hunt alongside local experts and experience the celebrated San Miniato Truffle Fair, where provenance, culinary heritage, and centuries-old traditions take center stage.
Truffle Experiences
Black Truffle Heritage: 3 Days in Emilia-Romagna
Explore the culinary heartland of Emilia-Romagna through an intimate Black Truffle Hunting experience centered on craftsmanship, precision, and seasonal excellence. Offered only during the summer months, black truffles here are prized for their depth and versatility, woven seamlessly into one of Italy’s most celebrated food cultures.
Truffle Experiences
Black Truffle Heritage: 3 Days in Tuscany
Discover Tuscany’s black truffle traditions on this three-day summer journey into the countryside. Hunt alongside expert tartufai and their trained dogs while experiencing the flavors, craftsmanship, and rural heritage behind one of Tuscany’s prized ingredients.
Truffle Experiences
Black Truffle Heritage: 3 Days in Umbria
Known as Italy’s green heart, Umbria offers one of the country’s most authentic black truffle landscapes. This exclusive 3-day, 2-night journey immerses guests in a region where truffle hunting remains deeply personal, seasonal, and tied to family tradition.