Ask most travelers why they keep putting off “that big trip,” and you’ll hear the same themes: too many choices, not enough time to plan, and worries about logistics on unfamiliar roads. What they really want is simple: time to be present in the places they’ve dreamed about, with someone else handling the details.

That is where CIE Tours comes in. For more than 90 years, CIE Tours has been welcoming travelers to Ireland, Britain, and beyond, pairing authentic local experiences with the peace of mind that comes from having every key detail taken care of. Whether you are actively planning or just starting to dream, CIE Tours offers a collection of journeys that make it easy to transform a “someday” dream into lifelong memories.

CIE Tours: 

CIE Tours has long been known as the specialists for travel to Ireland and Britain – and they now offer Guided Tours and Private Driver vacations in Iceland, Italy, and Spain. The company’s reputation is built on the warmest of welcomes from friendly local experts and thoughtfully designed itineraries that balance must-see icons with local moments travelers remember long after they return home.

A hallmark of traveling with CIE Tours is the CIE Tours Inclusive Advantage: accommodations, many attractions, entertainment, and most meals are included in the price, helping you avoid the “little extras” that can quickly add up. That translates into clear value and fewer surprises, whether you’re booking a first European vacation or planning a return trip. 

With more than 50 Guided Tour itineraries to choose from, below are a selection of our favorite unique options.

Taste of Scotland & Ireland: Two Countries, One Easy Choice

For travelers torn between Scotland’s dramatic Highlands and Ireland’s legendary green landscapes, Taste of Scotland & Ireland offers both in a single, seamless itinerary.

Imagine starting the week in Edinburgh, walking the Royal Mile as a local Tour Director shares stories of monarchs and everyday life. A few days later, you are clinking glasses in a Dublin pub, having crossed the Irish Sea without ever worrying about ferry schedules or driving on the left. This journey strings together castles, city streets, and countryside views, giving first-time visitors a confident way to experience two cultures in one adventure. 

Best of Ireland South: The Ireland They’ve Always Imagined

If you picture cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, lively towns with colorful shopfronts, and evenings filled with music and laughter, you’re probably imagining the landscapes featured on Best of Ireland South.

This itinerary brings together iconic highlights—such as the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney, and a classic jaunting car ride—with immersive experiences like traditional music and dance, farm visits, and a whiskey tasting. Because CIE Tours handles the driving, accommodations, admissions, and many meals, guests can focus on those “this is why we came” moments rather than what’s next on the schedule.

Taste of Iceland: Big Scenery, Low Stress

Iceland’s waterfalls, glaciers, black-sand beaches, and geothermal wonders make it a natural choice for adventure seekers. Planning it independently, however, can feel daunting. Taste of Iceland solves that by pairing spectacular scenery with expert guidance.

You travel with a professional driver-guide who understands local conditions, allowing the group to adapt to weather and daylight with confidence. From the Golden Circle to coastal vistas, travelers get a concentrated, well-paced look at Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes—without worrying about navigating the roads or finding accommodations.

Classic Sicily: A Mediterranean Story in Chapters

Sicily’s appeal lies in its layers: ancient ruins, seaside towns, bustling markets, and a cuisine shaped by centuries of cultural influence. Classic Sicily gathers these elements into a journey that feels like a story unfolding chapter by chapter.

On this itinerary, you might explore a Greek temple in the morning, wander a Baroque piazza in the afternoon, and end the day with a shared meal that brings the island’s flavors into focus. With transportation, hotels, and key experiences handled, the emphasis stays on savoring the island’s pace instead of puzzling over train timetables or narrow roads.

Northern Spain & Portugal: An Underrated Coastal Gem

For travelers who have already visited Europe’s biggest capitals, Northern Spain & Portugal offers a fresh take on the Iberian Peninsula.

This route threads together historic cities, coastal towns, and wine regions, moving smoothly from Spanish plazas to Portuguese neighborhoods where fado drifts through the evening air. The result is a cohesive coastal journey that feels both relaxed and rich in discovery—ideal for guests who want culture, scenery, and cuisine without the crowds.

Private Driver: Their Own Story, Expertly Guided

Not every traveler fits a fixed departure date or group format. CIE Tours’ Private Driver vacations give guests the freedom of a customized journey with the reassurance of a professional at the wheel.

A knowledgeable driver-guide accompanies you, following a tailored itinerary that can focus on family roots, photography, food, golf, or simply “see as much as possible at a comfortable pace.” With accommodations and routing arranged in advance, couples, families, and small groups can enjoy flexibility while still benefiting from CIE Tours’ local insight and support.

Why Choose CIE Tours Now?

Across guided coach tours, small-group departures, and Private Driver experiences, CIE Tours is designed for travelers who want both ease and authenticity. Expert Tour Directors share history and lore, while behind-the-scenes teams in the US and Europe help ensure smooth days and consistently high guest satisfaction.

Whether you are planning for next year or simply dreaming ahead, CIE Tours offers a ready-made way to trade decision fatigue for discovery—and to step into Europe’s stories with someone they can trust leading the way.