Where We’re Traveling Next: Our Most Popular Small Group Tours for 2026
If you’re dreaming about meaningful, well-paced travel with like-minded people, 2026 is shaping up to be an extraordinary year. Our Small Group Tours by The Traveling Professor are thoughtfully designed for adults, seniors, couples, and solo travelers who value comfort, culture, and connection.
With group sizes typically capped at 10–16 travelers, premium hotels, expert guides, and decades of experience behind every itinerary, these are the destinations our travelers are most excited about.
The Jewels of Northern Italy
(Florence • Venice • Verona • Padua • San Gimignano • Vicenza)
Northern Italy is timeless—and March is one of the best months to visit. With fewer crowds and pleasant spring weather, this small group Italy tour balances iconic cities with authentic local experiences. From Renaissance Florence to romantic Venice and elegant Verona, this journey delivers culture, cuisine, and history at an unhurried pace.
Paris & the Normandy Invasion Beaches
This September 2026 small group tour combines two of France’s most powerful experiences: the beauty of Paris and the history of Normandy. Walk the D-Day landing beaches, visit moving memorials, and return to Paris for world-class museums, cafés, and neighborhoods. Few itineraries offer this depth at such exceptional value.
Austria & Bavaria by Scenic Rail
(Vienna • Salzburg • Hallstatt • Innsbruck)
Travel effortlessly through the heart of Europe by train on this April 2026 small group rail tour. Discover imperial Vienna, Mozart’s Salzburg, storybook Hallstatt, and Alpine Innsbruck—without the stress of constant packing and unpacking. Scenic rail journeys make this one of our most relaxing and visually stunning itineraries.
Norway & the Fjords by Scenic Rail
Limited to just 12–14 travelers, this Norway small group tour is as personal as it is breathtaking. Ride legendary scenic rail routes, cruise dramatic fjords, and stay in cozy fjord-side lodges. Optional activities like hiking, biking, and zip-lining make this ideal for active travelers who still appreciate comfort and expert planning.
Peru, Machu Picchu & the Amazon Jungle
Few journeys rival the impact of Peru. This small group tour combines historic Cusco, awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, and the biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest. Guests stay at luxury properties, including the renowned Inkaterra Amazonica Lodge. Two 2026 departures—June and November—offer flexibility for different travel styles.
Dublin & the Gems of Ireland
This 14-day Ireland small group tour is a guest favorite year after year. From lively Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher, Donegal, Galway, Dingle, Belfast, and the Giant’s Causeway, it showcases Ireland’s landscapes, culture, and warm hospitality. July 2026 dates fill quickly, and private custom group options are available.
Iceland & the Solar Eclipse 2026
This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Witness a total solar eclipse in Iceland while exploring the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, black sand beaches, and geothermal wonders. Space is extremely limited—and the next solar eclipse over Iceland won’t occur again until 2196.
Croatia Small Ship Cruise (Adriatic Sea)
Sail the Adriatic in September 2026 aboard a deluxe small ship with only 30–34 guests. Visit coastal gems like Split, Hvar, Korčula, and Dubrovnik. This cruise is especially popular with senior travelers, couples, and solo women—and cabins are already booking fast.
Iceland & the Northern Lights
Our most popular Iceland small group tour, this winter adventure focuses on chasing the Northern Lights while enjoying waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, and black sand beaches. Highlights include the Blue Lagoon and a memorable lunch at the Friðheimar. Perfect for adventurous adults and solo travelers.
Edinburgh & the Scottish Highlands by Scenic Rail
Travel by train through Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes on this July 2026 small group tour. Explore castles, lochs, and Highland towns, starting in Edinburgh. This tour consistently attracts couples and solo women travelers—and it sells out quickly.
Christmas Markets of Montreal & Quebec City
Experience Old-World holiday charm closer to home on this Canada Christmas Markets tour. Festive lights, cozy cafés, and historic streets make Quebec City and Montreal feel wonderfully European. Our 2025 departures sold out early—November and December 2026 dates are now open. This is our most popular small group tour and sells out months in advance.
Ready to Travel With Us?
Our tours fill quickly because we keep our Traveling Professor groups small and experiences meaningful. If one (or more!) of these journeys is calling your name, now is the time to reserve.