Today's top three

Cultural Tours

Cultural Tours

Our specialised cultural tours give you the opportunity of diving head first into foreign cultures with the help of an expert local guide.

Discover the history behind Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral with a tour of Kent in South-East England, learn how to prepare gorgeous Balinese food with a Balinese cooking class, take a trip through the traditional South African homesteads of Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi and Sotho or be guided through the plethora of artisan showrooms in Ubud, Indonesia.

On the other hand, delve deep into Inca customs with a sacred valley tour from Cuzco, gain an insight into Buddhism with a Mind and Soul experience in Chiang Mai or learn to tango in the city of passion Buenos Aires.

Perhaps you’ll appreciate one of our Europe tours and be guided around the historic heart of Prague, Czech Republic, the baroque monastery in Melk, Austria or the Roman amphitheatre in Arles, France. Then there’s always the restored Reichstag in Berlin, Drottningholm Palace just outside Stockholm and the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg.

With our range of cultural tours your travelling experience will be enriched and enhanced. Call us now on 1800 046 462 and chat with our experienced consultants today.

top 3

  • 
Get a feel of the pure white sands of the Bay of Islands.
Be ready for some jaw-dropping scenery! 

    3 Day Bay to Bay 2013 - 2014

    from $220*

    •  

      TOTALLY TOPDECK: 

      • Stunning Bay of Islands
      • ‘Rock the Boat’ Upgrade Option

      Also INCLUDED:

      • 2 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D)
      • 2 nights in hotels/motels
      • Modern air-conditioned coach
      • Escorted services of a fully trained Trip Leader & Driver
      • Group Size : Average 28 People
      • Transport : Modern air-conditioned coach
      • Guaranteed Departure
      .
    Day 1 Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands.
    We start our trip together in Auckland, the jewel of the North Island, heading north around the picturesque harbour. First stop is Parry’s Kauri Park to visit an impressive example of a Kauri tree. Then it’s on to the seaside town of Paihia, nestled amongst the breathtaking Bay of Islands – a beautiful locale of 144 islands with quiet bays and plenty of marine life. Once we’ve sorted our accommodation, relax by the pool or grab a meal in town. Optional Upgrade to ‘Rock the Boat’ Overnight.
    Day 2 Paihia, Bay of Islands.
    You’ve got a free day to explore some of what the Bay of Islands has to offer! And trust us when we say there’s a wealth of optional activities. Drive along 90 Mile Beach all the way to Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific and try boarding down the towering sand dunes is a great rush! Cruise around the inner Bay aboard a catamaran and spot some dolphins, or just paddle through the mangroves to Haruru Falls by kayak. You may wish to learn a little of the region’s history with a visit to Russell (NZ’s oldest settlement) or the Waitangi Treaty House. Maybe you’d just like to get back to nature with a hike to Haruru Falls through the gorgeous natural landscape. We’ll regroup for dinner and share the day’s experiences! (B, D)
    Day 3 Bay of Islands to Auckland.
    Our travel direction turns southwards, and we visit the stunning Whangarei Falls if the weather’s on our side. From here, it’s a short hop back to Auckland, the City of Sails, where our quick jaunt together comes to a close. (B)
  • With its meandering waterways and flourishing farms, the Mekong Delta is a place not to be missed. Venture out through this iconic landscape and discover riverbanks dotted with coconut palms swaying in the breeze and sprawling rice fields sparkling in the sun. Be dazzled by a collage of coloured orchards, marvel at ramshackled houses on stilts and travel a waterway that bursts at the seams with boats of every conceivable size and shape. Learn about life on the Mekong Delta from local hosts, savour freshly picked fruit and gain a true appreciation of why this area is known as the ‘ricebowl of Vietnam’.

    Mekong Delta Farmstay

    from $225*

    • Homestay
      Boat, Minibus.
    Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City / Mekong Delta Homestay
    Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting and dynamic city brimming with street vendors, cyclos, temples, shops and colonial architecture. The Mekong Delta is the lifeblood of South-East Asia, and this fertile region within Vietnam is a maze of canals brimming with life, markets and tropical foods.

    Day 2 Mekong Delta / Ho Chi Minh City
    With countless food stalls, restaurants, museums and markets, the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City have something for everyone to enjoy.
  • Get a snapshot Greek history

    Greek Odyssey, 2 Days

    from $229*

    • 2 day tour departing Athens.
    • 1 night accommodation in Kalambaka.
    • 1 breakfast.
    • Professional local guide in Delphi + site and museum entrance fees.
    • Professional local guide in Kalambaka, plus entrance fees for two monasteries.
    • Busabout guide.
    • Local coach and driver.
    • Local taxes.
    • FREE Lonely Planet guidebook

      .
    HIGHLIGHTS: Athens - Delphi - Kalambaka - Thermopylae

    Get exploring some of the most famous sites of Greece including Delphi, the heart of the classical Greek world, plus the breathtaking cliff-top Monasteries of Meteora in this amazing mini adventure. We'll head to Kalambaka for the night, passing through the Thessalian plains then take a tour of UNESCO listed Meteora, one of the country's most unique attractions and a must see for any visitor to mainland Greece.

    Ask about our great airfares
  • Cultural Tour Holiday Packages

    • 
Get a feel of the pure white sands of the Bay of Islands.
Be ready for some jaw-dropping scenery! 

      3 Day Bay to Bay 2013 - 2014

      from $220*

      •  

        TOTALLY TOPDECK: 

        • Stunning Bay of Islands
        • ‘Rock the Boat’ Upgrade Option

        Also INCLUDED:

        • 2 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D)
        • 2 nights in hotels/motels
        • Modern air-conditioned coach
        • Escorted services of a fully trained Trip Leader & Driver
        • Group Size : Average 28 People
        • Transport : Modern air-conditioned coach
        • Guaranteed Departure
        .
      Day 1 Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands.
      We start our trip together in Auckland, the jewel of the North Island, heading north around the picturesque harbour. First stop is Parry’s Kauri Park to visit an impressive example of a Kauri tree. Then it’s on to the seaside town of Paihia, nestled amongst the breathtaking Bay of Islands – a beautiful locale of 144 islands with quiet bays and plenty of marine life. Once we’ve sorted our accommodation, relax by the pool or grab a meal in town. Optional Upgrade to ‘Rock the Boat’ Overnight.
      Day 2 Paihia, Bay of Islands.
      You’ve got a free day to explore some of what the Bay of Islands has to offer! And trust us when we say there’s a wealth of optional activities. Drive along 90 Mile Beach all the way to Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific and try boarding down the towering sand dunes is a great rush! Cruise around the inner Bay aboard a catamaran and spot some dolphins, or just paddle through the mangroves to Haruru Falls by kayak. You may wish to learn a little of the region’s history with a visit to Russell (NZ’s oldest settlement) or the Waitangi Treaty House. Maybe you’d just like to get back to nature with a hike to Haruru Falls through the gorgeous natural landscape. We’ll regroup for dinner and share the day’s experiences! (B, D)
      Day 3 Bay of Islands to Auckland.
      Our travel direction turns southwards, and we visit the stunning Whangarei Falls if the weather’s on our side. From here, it’s a short hop back to Auckland, the City of Sails, where our quick jaunt together comes to a close. (B)
    • With its meandering waterways and flourishing farms, the Mekong Delta is a place not to be missed. Venture out through this iconic landscape and discover riverbanks dotted with coconut palms swaying in the breeze and sprawling rice fields sparkling in the sun. Be dazzled by a collage of coloured orchards, marvel at ramshackled houses on stilts and travel a waterway that bursts at the seams with boats of every conceivable size and shape. Learn about life on the Mekong Delta from local hosts, savour freshly picked fruit and gain a true appreciation of why this area is known as the ‘ricebowl of Vietnam’.

      Mekong Delta Farmstay

      from $225*

      • Homestay
        Boat, Minibus.
      Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City / Mekong Delta Homestay
      Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting and dynamic city brimming with street vendors, cyclos, temples, shops and colonial architecture. The Mekong Delta is the lifeblood of South-East Asia, and this fertile region within Vietnam is a maze of canals brimming with life, markets and tropical foods.

      Day 2 Mekong Delta / Ho Chi Minh City
      With countless food stalls, restaurants, museums and markets, the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City have something for everyone to enjoy.
    • Get a snapshot Greek history

      Greek Odyssey, 2 Days

      from $229*

      • 2 day tour departing Athens.
      • 1 night accommodation in Kalambaka.
      • 1 breakfast.
      • Professional local guide in Delphi + site and museum entrance fees.
      • Professional local guide in Kalambaka, plus entrance fees for two monasteries.
      • Busabout guide.
      • Local coach and driver.
      • Local taxes.
      • FREE Lonely Planet guidebook

        .
      HIGHLIGHTS: Athens - Delphi - Kalambaka - Thermopylae

      Get exploring some of the most famous sites of Greece including Delphi, the heart of the classical Greek world, plus the breathtaking cliff-top Monasteries of Meteora in this amazing mini adventure. We'll head to Kalambaka for the night, passing through the Thessalian plains then take a tour of UNESCO listed Meteora, one of the country's most unique attractions and a must see for any visitor to mainland Greece.

      Ask about our great airfares
    • With symbolic links to the dawn landing at Gallipoli, stand in the morning breeze and pay respect to the fallen on ANZAC Day at a dawn vigil. This special 3-day trip takes you by private bus along the Dardanelles, from Istanbul to the memorial site commemorating the common sacrifice for all of the nations involved. This moving tour will also include visits to other important sites such as Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair and the war cemeteries, making your visit to Turkey a unique and beautiful experience.

      ANZAC Day Memorial Tour

      from $249*

      • Group leader
        Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout
        What's Included
        Gallipoli Peninsula tour, Troy, ANZAC Dawn Service, morning country specific memorial services, use of sleeping bag.

      • Meals Included
        2 breakfasts.

      • (Allow USD60-75 for meals not included)
        Local Flights
        If required all local flights are included in the cost of your tours unless otherwise noted.
      • It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets.
      • Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.
      Witnessing the moving dawn service and accompanying memorials, exploring the ancient city of Troy.
      Day 1 Istanbul
      Depart Istanbul at 8am. Afternoon tour of the battlefields, cemeteries and other important sites.
      Day 2 Troy/Canakkale (1B)
      Morning visit to Troy with free time in the afternoon. Evening departure to Gallipoli ceremony site.
      Day 3 Istanbul (1B)
      ANZAC Day Dawn Service. Option to attend Australian, New Zealand and Turkish morning memorial services. Transfer back to Istanbul where tour finishes upon arrival late evening.
    • From Auckland to the Bay and everything in between

      Jaffas 'n' Jandals, 3 Days

      from $279*

      • 3 day tour departing Auckland.
      • 2 nights accommodation in hotels.
      • 2 breakfasts and 1 dinners.
      • Sightseeing and inclusions as per itinerary.
      • Local charges and service charges.
      • Transport in modern air-conditioned coach with charging facilities.
      • Experienced and professional Contiki tour manager and driver

        Only Contiki Includes:.
      • Kiwiana fish 'n'chips dinner.
      • Catch 360 degree views from Auckland's Sky Tower.
      • Ferry ride and guided historical walking tour of Russell

        .
      HIGHLIGHTS: 'City of Sails' harbour - Auckland's Harbour Bridge - Kauri Forest - Whangarei and Kawakawa's famous Hundertwasser - Skytower

      Clear your schedule for New Zealand NOW - from Auckland to the Bay and everything in between. Cross the Harbour Bridge, kayak the sea, swim with the dolphins and see the 'Hole in the Rock' while fast boating through the islands. Plus, for you culture vultures, trek through the native Kauri Forest and glimpse the Tribal Lands of Nga Puhi Maori. Looking for a little peace and quiet? You'll have a day to kick back beachside too.

      Ask about our great airfares
    • Cairo - Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza Plateau, Necropolis of Saqqara, Egyptian Museum & King Tut's 9kg solid Golden Mask

      Cairo Stopover - 4 Days

      from $299*

      • Breakfast daily
        3 nights - standard hotel (based on twin/double basis)
        Airport arrival and departure transfer on day 1 and day 4
        Guided sightseeing of the Pyramids & Sphinx at Giza and the Egyptian Museum
        Guided sightseeing on day 2 conducted by an English speaking Egyptian tour guide, qualified in Egyptology
        All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles.
      Day 1, Cairo
      Welcome to Egypt and the start of your citystay! Arrive Cairo, included transfer to your hotel and overnight.
      No meals included.
      Day 2, Pyramids & the Egyptian Museum
      Hello Cairo! Today, enjoy a guided visit to the famous pyramids and huge Sphinx at Giza Plateau. Sole survivors from the ancient Greek-listed Seven Wonders of the World, the pyramids are the planet’s oldest tourist attraction! Gaze in awe at Cheops (Khufu) - the largest of the three great pyramids. Constructed from over 2.5 million limestone blocks it is thought to have taken more than 20 years to construct. Whilst here, you can opt to enter inside one of the pyramids, subject to opening. Not built for the purpose of accommodating curious travellers, a visit inside one of the pyramids is hot, humid and not recommended for the claustrophobic! For a real Arabian experience, perhaps opt to hire a camel for a trot across the sands of Giza.

      We later enjoy a guided visit at the Egyptian Museum. Prize exhibit has to be the priceless funerary treasures of King Tutankhamen, including his legendary solid gold death mask. Also during the visit you can choose to visit the Royal Mummy Room, where 9 royal mummies from the New Kingdom is displayed.
      1 breakfast, no lunch, no dinner included.
      Day 3, Explore or relax
      Free day to enjoy Cairo your way. Perhaps enjoy an optional Cairo city tour or a visit to the first pyramid ever built - Zhoser’s Step Pyramid at Saqqara. There are also plenty of cabs available from you hotel to take you into central Cairo. Perhaps check out the bargains at Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
      1 breakfast, no lunch, no dinner included.
      Day 4, Cairo
      Hotel check out and included onward transfer to airport.
      1 breakfast, no lunch, no dinner included.
    • Join us for an unforgettable trip!

      Pamplona Camping, 4 Days

      from $314*

      • WAS $349*, NOW $314*, SAVE $35*.
      • 4 day tour departing San Fermin.
      • 3 nights accommodation in either Pre-erected Tents or Dorms on our awesome party campsite - El Molino.
      • Onsite entertainment - DJs around the pool during the day, and pumping out the tunes in the bar at night.
      • San Fermin Opening Ceremony plus 2 Bull Runs.
      • Access to all campsite amenities including the pool, 2 bar areas, restaurant, football fields, shop and car parking facilities.
      • Regular coach shuttles between the campsite and Pamplona Town centre.
      • Services of an onsite First Festival Travel tour leaders.
      Make your own way to Pamplona, and leave the rest to us Our campsite package includes all the fun and parties of the festival, as well as excellent campsite facilities and entertainment.

      Ask about our great airfares
    • A great insight to the history and culture of Salvador, the capital of the Bahia region.

      Discover Salvador, 4 Days

      from $319*

      • 4 day tour departing Salvador.
      • 3 nights accommodation at 3-star hotels in Standard Rooms.
      • Daily breakfast.
      • Private transfers and private historic city tour.
      HIGHLIGHTS: Salvador

      The sounds of samba wafting through the cobbled streets - make a visit to Salvador - an unforgettable part of any trip to Brazil.

      DAY 1 Salvador
      Transfer to the Hotel Tropical Bahia for three nights.

      DAY 2 Salvador
      Half day tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Baroque church of Sao Francisco and historical Pelourinho with its colonial buildings.

      DAY 3 Salvador
      Day at leisure to explore the city and take in the sights.

      DAY 4 Salvador
      Transfer to the airport.

      Ask about our great airfares

    Cultural Tour Holiday Packages

    • 
Get a feel of the pure white sands of the Bay of Islands.
Be ready for some jaw-dropping scenery! 

      3 Day Bay to Bay 2013 - 2014

      from $220*

      •  

        TOTALLY TOPDECK: 

        • Stunning Bay of Islands
        • ‘Rock the Boat’ Upgrade Option

        Also INCLUDED:

        • 2 breakfasts (B), 1 dinner (D)
        • 2 nights in hotels/motels
        • Modern air-conditioned coach
        • Escorted services of a fully trained Trip Leader & Driver
        • Group Size : Average 28 People
        • Transport : Modern air-conditioned coach
        • Guaranteed Departure
        .
      Day 1 Auckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands.
      We start our trip together in Auckland, the jewel of the North Island, heading north around the picturesque harbour. First stop is Parry’s Kauri Park to visit an impressive example of a Kauri tree. Then it’s on to the seaside town of Paihia, nestled amongst the breathtaking Bay of Islands – a beautiful locale of 144 islands with quiet bays and plenty of marine life. Once we’ve sorted our accommodation, relax by the pool or grab a meal in town. Optional Upgrade to ‘Rock the Boat’ Overnight.
      Day 2 Paihia, Bay of Islands.
      You’ve got a free day to explore some of what the Bay of Islands has to offer! And trust us when we say there’s a wealth of optional activities. Drive along 90 Mile Beach all the way to Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific and try boarding down the towering sand dunes is a great rush! Cruise around the inner Bay aboard a catamaran and spot some dolphins, or just paddle through the mangroves to Haruru Falls by kayak. You may wish to learn a little of the region’s history with a visit to Russell (NZ’s oldest settlement) or the Waitangi Treaty House. Maybe you’d just like to get back to nature with a hike to Haruru Falls through the gorgeous natural landscape. We’ll regroup for dinner and share the day’s experiences! (B, D)
      Day 3 Bay of Islands to Auckland.
      Our travel direction turns southwards, and we visit the stunning Whangarei Falls if the weather’s on our side. From here, it’s a short hop back to Auckland, the City of Sails, where our quick jaunt together comes to a close. (B)
    • With its meandering waterways and flourishing farms, the Mekong Delta is a place not to be missed. Venture out through this iconic landscape and discover riverbanks dotted with coconut palms swaying in the breeze and sprawling rice fields sparkling in the sun. Be dazzled by a collage of coloured orchards, marvel at ramshackled houses on stilts and travel a waterway that bursts at the seams with boats of every conceivable size and shape. Learn about life on the Mekong Delta from local hosts, savour freshly picked fruit and gain a true appreciation of why this area is known as the ‘ricebowl of Vietnam’.

      Mekong Delta Farmstay

      from $225*

      • Homestay
        Boat, Minibus.
      Day 1 Ho Chi Minh City / Mekong Delta Homestay
      Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting and dynamic city brimming with street vendors, cyclos, temples, shops and colonial architecture. The Mekong Delta is the lifeblood of South-East Asia, and this fertile region within Vietnam is a maze of canals brimming with life, markets and tropical foods.

      Day 2 Mekong Delta / Ho Chi Minh City
      With countless food stalls, restaurants, museums and markets, the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City have something for everyone to enjoy.
    • Get a snapshot Greek history

      Greek Odyssey, 2 Days

      from $229*

      • 2 day tour departing Athens.
      • 1 night accommodation in Kalambaka.
      • 1 breakfast.
      • Professional local guide in Delphi + site and museum entrance fees.
      • Professional local guide in Kalambaka, plus entrance fees for two monasteries.
      • Busabout guide.
      • Local coach and driver.
      • Local taxes.
      • FREE Lonely Planet guidebook

        .
      HIGHLIGHTS: Athens - Delphi - Kalambaka - Thermopylae

      Get exploring some of the most famous sites of Greece including Delphi, the heart of the classical Greek world, plus the breathtaking cliff-top Monasteries of Meteora in this amazing mini adventure. We'll head to Kalambaka for the night, passing through the Thessalian plains then take a tour of UNESCO listed Meteora, one of the country's most unique attractions and a must see for any visitor to mainland Greece.

      Ask about our great airfares

    featured tour

    Delight every one of your senses

    India Recon, 7 Days

    HIGHLIGHTS: Delhi - Agra - Taj Mahal - Tordi Garh - Jaipur

    We'll take you around India on foot, train, local bus and aut...

    from $529*

    what are people saying about tours?

    Having not travelled too much I wasn't sure if a tour would be be my cup of tea. Oh how I was wrong, we had an extremely packed 1 week on the west coast of USA and saw some amazing things including The Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, and the small group was filled with great people, very down to earth and loads of fun. Highly recommended!

    Chris from Brisbane

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