Treat Yourself

By Margarita Hirapetian

Treat Yourself

By Margarita Hirapetian

Living the high life in Europe thanks to Classic Vacations.

True luxury travel isn’t always easy to come by but we’re here to guide you toward experiences that will help you see the world through an epicurean lens. From the rolling vineyards of Italy to the sun-drenched coastlines of Greece, the rich culture of France, and the timeless charm of England, a well-curated tour can elevate your journey into something truly exceptional. Classic Vacations thoughtfully designed Europe Preferred Tours offer a blend of indulgence, culture, and comfort, letting you savor each destination. Treat yourself, as they say, to these expertly imagined and meticulously planned tours that put your pleasure first.

Tuscan Holiday

Amid the rolling, emerald hills of Tuscany, be ushered to a historic Vernaccia vineyard for a hands-on Tuscan cooking class. In a cozy family kitchen, discover the secrets of Tuscan cuisine as you prepare a four-course meal—from handmade pasta and seasonal sauces to classic desserts and bruschetta with fresh toppings. After the lesson, savor your meal in a private tasting room or garden overlooking the San Gimignano Medieval towers. Complementing the feast is a curated tasting of four organic wines alongside six varieties of extra virgin olive oil—both natural and infused.

It’s All Greek to Us

Greece is the word when you want to taste some of the freshest, most succulent food in the world, and it all begins with a visit to Ancient Agora in Classic’s Athens Central Market & Food Tour. After getting picked up by your private guide, you will head towards Monastiraki square and cross into the Ancient Agora of Athens. Once inside the market, the energetic bustle of the space zings through you as you visit the meat and fish market, buy fresh fruit and vegetables, taste kouloúria (sesame bread rings), and sip a traditionally brewed Greek coffee.

Classic Vacations also offers a private BBQ cruise in Crete, Greece’s largest island, where travelers will get to savor Cretan flavors and the island’s breathtaking beauty in the azure waters of Elounda. A comfy boat cruises along the coastline, stopping at secluded coves for a bit of swimming and snorkeling. The best part? A private chef prepares an authentic barbecue with locally sourced ingredients that includes Cretan specialties. As you watch the cerulean sea, patting your satisfied stomach, you won’t want to be anywhere else on the planet.

“As you watch the cerulean sea, patting your satisfied stomach, you won’t want to be anywhere else on the planet.”

London Calling

Explore London’s historical Borough Market with a stop at one of the city’s oldest and most renowned public houses. Residing at this location in central London since 1756, Borough Market is dedicated to sustainable food production, short supply chains, and social connection. Take a moment to really appreciate its history and legacy, taste some of the large variety of foods on offer, and perhaps even strike up a conversation with the market traders. Afterwards, wet your whistle with some traditional ales at The George Inn or The Anchor, pubs that have been around for literally hundreds of years.

A Little Spanish Flair

Get a taste of some of the most succulent Spanish food on offer while you watch the best “bailadores” in town dancing the spirited flamenco. Classic’s Flamenco Cordobes Dinner Show Tour in Barcelona begins when your private driver picks you up and whisks you away to a night of true excitement. The tour includes a gastronomic trip through the entire country of Spain, with tastings of salmorejo andaluz (creamy soup of pear tomato), Euskadi’s pintxos (small bread slices topped with various ingredients), pulpo a feira (octopus served with potatoes), and a yummy dessert of churros with hot chocolate, and of course, you’ll be having a traditional paella valenciana along the way. It’s an experience so good, you might break into dance yourself.

French Connections

Spend a half day in Paris on a pastry tour with your own private guide, traveling to the Marais, St. Germain des Prés, and the ritzy Place Vendôme. You’ll be putting your sweet tooth to work with tastings of Parisian classics like eclairs, mille-feuilles, domed cakes, meringues, and so much more. The elegant boutiques your guide ushers you through are confections themselves, making this tour a feast for the stomach and eyes.

“This sparkling tour also offers visits to houses of renown like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Cliquot, or Taittinger.

After your stay in the French capital, don’t let yourself go home without visiting the iconic Champagne region. You’ll spend a full day with a private guide, visiting Reims and its gothic cathedral. Follow that up by exploring the wonders of the Champagne Route while learning everything there is to know about the bubbly and tasting it at every chance. This sparkling tour also offers visits to houses of renown like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Cliquot, or Taittinger.

Spend another half day on a wine tour in Bordeaux and explore the beauty of the Beaujolais wine region. This tour takes you through two local wineries and their cellars where you can become fully immersed in history, “terroir,” and tradition. End it all on a high note with a tasting of some fine Beaujolais wine, followed by a scenic ride back to Lyon.

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