Rick Steves Family Europe Tour: London to Florence

Family Tours: Creating Unforgettable Memories in Europe

Traveling through Europe as a family can be an exhilarating but daunting experience. Rick Steves’ Family Europe tours are designed to remove the stress and maximize the joy, allowing families to savor every discovery together from London to Florence. With expert guides, thoughtfully chosen sights, and activities tailored for all ages, these tours promise an enriching, fun-filled travel adventure you’ll never forget.

Why Choose a Rick Steves Family Tour?

• Small group sizes: Tours typically have only 24 to 28 people—about half the size of most group tours, giving you an intimate, community-oriented experience and easy logistics.
• Engaging, expert guides: All tours feature a seasoned Rick Steves guide, dedicated tour assistant, and local specialists. They bring European history, art, and culture to life in a way that resonates with both kids and adults.
• Central, family-friendly hotels: Stay right in the heart of each city, close to top attractions and authentic neighborhoods. Hotels are carefully selected for comfort and family suitability.
• All key sightseeing included: The price covers a blend of major city highlights and hands-on, interactive experiences—no hidden fees for the major sights or special events.
• Memories for a lifetime: The focus on interactive learning, local culture, and fun ensures every family member comes home with new perspectives and unforgettable stories.

Tour At a Glance: Family Europe—London to Florence in 13 Days

Route: London → Paris → Burgundy & Swiss Alps → Italian Riviera (Cinque Terre) → Florence

• Duration: 13 days
• Designed for: Families with children ages 8–17 (required for booking)
• 2026 Price: $5,095–$5,195 per person plus airfare; kids 8–17 save $200
• Single Supplement: $650

What Sets Family Europe Apart?

• All logistics handled: All group transportation from London to Florence, 12 nights’ accommodation, and luggage management between hotels are arranged for you.
• Meals Included: Daily breakfasts and six additional group meals cover highlights of European cuisine—and a chance for picky eaters to sample local specialties with confidence!
• All tips and gratuities covered: Tips for guides and drivers are included, so you never have awkward surprises or unexpected expenses.
• Discounts for repeat travelers: $50 per person for each previous Rick Steves tour taken.
• Guaranteed tour price: Your price is locked in at the time of deposit, offering peace of mind and transparency.
• Flexibility: Options to change or cancel tours per Rick Steves’ current transfer and cancellation policy.

Highlights of the Family Europe Itinerary

Family Europe: London to Florence in 13 Days balances iconic sights with interactive, hands-on fun. Here is a closer look at each region and its highlights:

London

• Welcome dinner to meet your guides and fellow families
• Panoramic London city bus tour: Cover palaces, parks, and classic city sights
• Visit the Tower of London: Tales of royalty, intrigue, and the Crown Jewels
• River Thames cruise: Glide past iconic landmarks from the water

Paris

• High-speed Chunnel train from London to Paris: An engineering marvel!
• Seine River cruise: The best river views of Notre-Dame and classic Parisian bridges
• Walking tour: Explore neighborhoods from the Latin Quarter to the Champs-Elysées
• Day trip to Château de Fontainebleau: Explore royal history and forested grounds

Burgundy and French Countryside

• Visit Guédelon Castle: See artisans constructing a medieval castle using traditional methods
• Stone-cutting workshop: Hands-on activity kids (and adults!) love
• Experience a medieval evening with festivities and food reminiscent of the past

The Swiss Alps

• Arrive in the heart of the Alps for breathtaking scenery and adventure
• Hiking orientation: Learn about paths and explore meadows and waterfalls together
• Try a classic Swiss fondue tasting
• Plenty of space for swimming, wandering, and embracing alpine culture

Italian Riviera: Cinque Terre

• Learn to navigate the famous villages with a local guide
• Enjoy a “vacation day”: Options include hiking, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach

Florence and Tuscany

• See Pisa and its Leaning Tower and Square of Miracles
• Participate in a hands-on art class (often sketching or watercolors)
• Join a Renaissance walking tour led by a local expert
• Tour the Accademia Gallery: View Michelangelo’s iconic David
• Group Tuscan cooking class: Learn to make regional specialties

What’s Included in the Tour Price?

• At least 18 group sightseeing events led by expert local guides
• Comprehensive transportation between all tour stops
• 12 nights in specially chosen, family-oriented hotels
• All breakfasts and 6 other meals (lunches or dinners)
• Admission fees for all included group sightseeing
• All tips for guides, drivers, and included activities
• Tour kit with a Rick Steves guidebook and a secure moneybelt for valuables
• Transfer and cancellation flexibility (see terms for details)

Group Size and Age Requirements

• Tours limited to 24–28 people, fostering camaraderie and ease of travel
• Family groups must include at least one child aged 8–17 years (required)
• Children age 8–17 receive a $200 per person discount

Family Tour Fine Print

• This tour is for families traveling with at least one child age 8–17
• Not suitable for unaccompanied children or groups without youth travelers
• Participants are responsible for personal drinks and activities during free time

My Way Vacation Packages: Extra Flexibility for Families

For families who want more independence, Rick Steves also offers My Way vacation packages. These offer:
– Pre-arranged hotels and group transportation
– The freedom to build your own daily itinerary—see Europe at your own pace

It’s a popular choice for those with younger kids or anyone preferring a less-structured trip while benefiting from Rick Steves’ hotel expertise and logistics.

Sample Itinerary Table: Family Europe – London to Florence

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What age children can join the tour?

A: Only families traveling with at least one child between ages 8 and 17 are eligible for Family Europe tours.

Q: How many people are in each group?

A: Group size is limited to 24–28 people, about half the size of standard group tours, ensuring a more personalized, family-friendly environment.

Q: Are there discounts for kids?

A: Yes. Each child age 8–17 receives a $200 discount off the tour price.

Q: What about meals?

A: All breakfasts and six additional group meals are included. These typically highlight regional specialties and are arranged in local, family-friendly restaurants.

Q: Is the pace suitable for kids?

A: Absolutely. Daily schedules balance must-see sights and interactive hands-on learning with ample free time and flexibility to accommodate a wide range of family interests and energy levels.

Q: Can we customize or build our own trip?

A: For more flexibility, Rick Steves offers My Way Vacation packages, allowing you to follow your own plan for sightseeing while enjoying the benefits of prearranged hotels and group transportation.

What Past Travelers Say

Families who join Rick Steves tours report a unique combination of learning, adventure, and togetherness. The small group size helps kids bond and make new friends, while adults appreciate the depth of cultural insight and expert logistics. One multigenerational traveler said, “The kids learned so much, and the guides made history come alive for all of us. The hands-on activities—from art classes to cooking—were highlights we’ll always remember.”

Is a Family Tour Right for You?

• Do you want to travel without daily stress over logistics?
• Are you eager for your family to truly experience, not just see, Europe?
• Do you value small groups and expertly curated cultural experiences?
• Do you want your kids to build confidence, friendships, and memories?

If so, a Rick Steves Family Europe tour may be the perfect fit for your next adventure.