Tips & Planning

Europe isn't just a patchwork of must-see cities and postcard-perfect landscapes—it's home to some of the world’s most unforgettable must-do experiences. We're talking about the things people dream of doing their whole lives. These are moments of pure adrenaline, joy, awe and cultural connection that go beyond sightseeing. This isn't a list of best places to go—it's a list of things to do. Whether you're sabering champagne in the French countryside or watching the aurora swirl above the Arctic Circle, these Europe bucket-list experiences deliver stories you'll tell forever.

Here at Backroads, we’re biking and hiking experts—but we’re also seriously dedicated hotel pros. Every year, our local experts around the world scope their region’s most beautiful and romantic hotels. Then our hotel team gets to work, selecting the best of a great bunch for guests on our active travel trips.

Japan is a dream destination for adventure travelers, a place where cultural depth meets breathtaking natural beauty. Traveling to Japan for the first time is an unforgettable experience, and while it is modern and highly efficient country, it’s also a place where etiquette and social harmony are deeply valued—and understanding this can make your trip smoother and more meaningful. Here are things to keep in mind before you travel to Japan for the first time.

Bonjour, cycling fans! The Tour de France is back, rolling through France’s most jaw-dropping landscapes in a whirlwind of energy, grit and glory. Since 1903, this legendary race has challenged the world’s best riders with grueling climbs, thrilling sprints and heart-pounding finishes. Each year, the route changes to spotlight new regions, adding fresh excitement and unforgettable backdrops to this century-old tradition. This year’s course features a mix of mountain stages and dramatic coastal routes, promising spectacular views and fierce competition.

One of the reasons that Europe is so special is that, within a relatively small geographic area, you can visit incredibly diverse landscapes with their own histories, cultures and scenic wonders. While Backroads provides everything you'll need to enjoy any of our trips, these destinations are especially great for first-time travelers to Europe. With accessible airports and hotels, friendly locals who often speak English and dependable public transportation, among other welcoming attributes, they offer a perfect introduction to European beauty, food and charm.

A friend tells me that her mother still refers to a mother-daughter vacation they took years ago as “the torture trip.” What was intended to be a sweet week of pampering and bonding degraded into petty annoyances, nit-picking and constant bickering in that oh-so-special way that only mothers and daughters have. While they can laugh about it now, and they have successfully vacationed together since then, hearing her experience makes me think carefully when planning special girls trip getaways for my young adult daughter and me.

Planning a family trip to Europe can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. With so many incredible destinations to visit and exciting things to discover, it can be hard to know where to start. And when planning a family-friendly European adventure, considering both the kids’ and the adults’ wants and needs will ensure that everyone has a great vacation!

The world’s most stunning hiking trails, charming streets and cultural sites are begging you to explore them. Obtaining the right gear and trying it out beforehand will definitely help you get them most out of your hiking trip.

Ever wonder what Backroads guests and Trip Leaders carry—or wear—on a bike ride? Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at how one leader, Jeremy Loewenstein, gears up for a day on the road and his tips for what to bring on a bike tour.

Check out our new video featuring our completely redesigned, ready-to-roll titanium e-bike, which made its debut this summer! See Backroads Director of Operations Matt Fletcher introduce the Equalizer below.