Our Trip‑Leader‑approved river cruise packing tips: experience‑tested advice to help you have everything you need for an unforgettable active travel cruise along Europe’s waterways.

Whether you’ve decided to get a head start on summer, find yourself with unexpected time off or are just a little behind on planning, here is a selection of trips departing

Happy feet make all the difference on an active trip. When your footwear is dialed in, you can focus on the ride, the trail and the moments in between. A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s how to choose the right hiking shoes and keep your feet comfortable, supported and ready for whatever the day brings.

Island life truly has a je ne sais quoi that slows you down, awakens your sense of wonder and naturally disconnects you from the rest of the world. At Backroads, we also love islands of all shapes, sizes and climates! Here’s a list of our European island trips to consider for your next getaway.

Give me a vacation in September over any other month of the year. Crowds wane, temperatures mellow and popular destinations relax from the tourist crush and ease back into the local routine. I love how the food changes with the season too: peach pies are amazing, chestnuts and cranberries begin to appear in markets, apples are absolutely perfect and wine and produce festivals are scheduled every weekend.

The MICHELIN Guide’s list of the best places to travel in 2026 highlights destinations where cuisine reflects a strong sense of place. Several of these regions also happen to be Backroads destinations, where we take you on active adventures deep into the landscapes and culture of a region. While the world’s great food destinations are often defined by restaurants, the deeper story begins in the landscapes that shape them. At a hiking pace or biking speed, it's easy to stop and see the vineyards where the wine begins, the farms where cheeses are made and the markets where local cooks gather their ingredients.

I recently returned from my third Backroads trip. My latest trip, the Patagonia Lake District Multi-Adventure Tour, looked a little different from the others. Besides the obvious—my previous trips were both in Europe and this trip was to Argentina—my January 2026 trip was my first Backroads trip in nearly 20 years. My travel companion was my husband, Blake, instead of my mom. And, unlike my earlier Backroads adventures, there were no children in our group.

Our staff in the field are intrepid travelers with expertise in the countries where they work. They also have another thing in common: they have a deep appreciation for their regions and are always excited to share their favorite stories. I asked some of them recently about traveling to the same destinations in summer vs. winter, and I was treated to great conversations, along with some bonus insider tips.

Think you know your 30s & 40s Backroads adventures? From volcanic islands to alpine ridgelines, bluegrass country to glacier-carved wilderness, each itinerary has its own signature setting and style. Read the clues and see if you can spot what sets them apart. Some may seem similar at first glance, but the details make all the difference.

After decades of exploring Italy by bike and on foot, we’ve learned that some of the country’s most memorable spots lie far beyond the famous landmarks. With our deep local knowledge and carefully designed routes, we’re pros at leading guests into Italy’s quieter corners. We’re talking volcanic islands rising from the sea, wild Alpine valleys, countryside shaped by centuries of food traditions and rural roads where everyday life unfolds slowly.