ef group travel

The world’s leader in experiential travel

Bienvenido. Wamkelekile. Welcome to EF World Journeys, a family of travel brands by EF Education First.

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We connect cultures, communities, and people through guided, group travel.

Epic trips. Zero stress. Travel for 18–35s.

200+ group tours. A world of possibilities.

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Inspire a new perspective on the world

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Experience the modern approach to educational travel.

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With EF Explore America, students are bound for an incredible experience that will exceed their (and your) expectations. That’s because our compelling itineraries are rooted in human connection—and crafted specifically for you.

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Investigate the most important elements of society by walking the streets where history happened and today’s culture is created.

Show your students the real-world importance of STEM through hands-on experiences and collaborations with experts in the field.

Our people are your people

Joining the EF family means you’ll have the support of our community of educators, tour architects, operations wizards, and ever-curious explorers. We’ve experienced the transformative power of travel firsthand—and we can’t wait to explore the opportunities that are out there for you and your students.

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What’s important to you is important to us

We believe travel is for everyone. When students go beyond the classroom it brings education to life, unlocks new potential, and opens a world of possibilities. That’s why we prioritize safety, value, and the kind of learning that prepares students for the future and their futures.

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For over 55 years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to one global mission: Opening the World Through Education .

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Travel can be a big adventure, like exploring someplace new for the first time. But it’s also about the smaller moments on the road. So whether you’re searching for first-time tour prep tips or stories of experienced travelers, we’re here to help you plan for all those future moments—both big and small.

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School group travel

Plan your school group, course leader.

An experienced EF Leader will be by your side to support you during the entire trip. There's always a friendly face ready to answer any of your questions and show you the best of your destination.

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Our activity coordinators organize local excursions, weekend gateways, cultural highlights, dinners, cruises and much more to ensure your experience is enjoyable.

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When lessons are over for the day, it’s important for you to have a comfortable place to call home. We offer various ways for you to live like a local while you’re abroad.

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Expand your classroom by putting your curriculum into practice as your students immerse in an international learning environment. This is the chance to show your students how language and culture are intertwined whether it's with a trip to the museum, walk in the park, tour of historic architecture or visit to a local market. Open the eyes of your students to new experiences, different cultures and a world of possibilities. Enjoy a free trip abroad with authentic cultural experiences. The cost of you participating as a school group leader is on us. This unique teaching experience enables you to have the opportunity to observe how language is taught by EF while also sharing best practices with our teachers, who are native speakers.

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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2023 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 12-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

A Taste of the Sweet Life in Slovenia

Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $559 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $800.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

8 Trending Destinations to Visit in 2023

Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 7 million dollars to over 130 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-29 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters on Intrepid Travel’s Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip which includes time with the mountain gorillas of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. 

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination.

For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina). Can’t stay long? Book one of Chimu Adventures’ scenic flights to Antarctica , which fly as far as the south pole in one spectacular 16-hour day.

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $5,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

Program These Numbers Into Your Phones Before Traveling Internationally

Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to nearby destinations like Mexico or Denver—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

For independent explorers who don’t want to miss out on these amazing destinations, book your hotel stay for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels .

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Santa Clara Charter Bus Rentals

Perfectly positioned in the heart of Silicon Valley, Santa Clara offers a small-town feel just 15 minutes from San Jose and an hour from San Francisco . If you need to be in the Bay Area for work or you’re taking a tour of Northern California, Santa Clara provides a great home base where you can relax and escape the San Francisco rush.

Planning to visit Santa Clara or the rest of the Bay Area with a large group? Don’t worry about finding enough rideshares or rental cars to take all of you up and down the 101. Call GOGO Charters at 408-849-4440 and book a charter bus in California that can keep your entire group together no matter where you’re going.

Whether you need 1 bus or 50, we can help you.

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Santa Clara Charter Bus and Shuttle Services

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Here are just a few of the companies that have trusted us with their group transportation needs.

Rent a Santa Clara Charter Bus or Minibus

Our charter bus company rents coaches and minibuses with guaranteed climate control and optional features like reclining seats, power outlets and TVs with DVD players. If you’re traveling with a school group , you can request free WiFi so your students can complete assignments on their tablets or stream music on their phones.

Full-size charter bus rentals also have storage space beneath the bus, making them ideal for sports teams who need to stash balls, nets, or racquets. Just looking for a quick shuttle to take your wedding party to the ceremony? An 18-passenger minibus may suit your needs perfectly. When you call GOGO Charters, we’ll help you find the bus that’s right for your group.

Available Amenities

Reclining seats, popular santa clara destinations.

Although one of Santa Clara’s biggest selling points is its proximity to San Francisco, the city has several attractions of its own that draw in visitors from across the Bay Area. Here are some of the most popular group-friendly destinations you can find in Santa Clara:

California’s Great America

This theme park features intense roller coasters like Flight Deck and the aptly named Demon as well as more family-friendly coasters like the Woodstock Express. Don’t worry if coasters aren’t your style, though—your youth group or scouting troop can spend the day on less intense rides like Thunder Raceway, the Celebration Swings, and Mass Effect: New Earth. If you’re visiting in summer, set aside time to race down the waterslides and tube rides at the Great America water park.

Address: 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA 95054

Bus parking: Parking for tour buses is free. The bus can drop you off at 4911 Great America Parkway before finding a spot in the theme park’s lot.

Triton Museum of Art

A cultural cornerstone of Santa Clara, the Triton Museum showcases contemporary artists, especially those with ties to the Bay Area. You may see exhibitions about the experience of African American, Japanese, or Mexican artists in Northern California or catch a selection of modern prints from the museum’s permanent collection. This museum is also free, so you don’t have to worry about how much it’ll cost to bring your entire group.

Address: 1505 Warburton Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95050

Bus parking: The Museum provides free parking in its lot.

Intel Museum

You can’t go to Silicon Valley without learning about computers, right? This intriguing museum shows how silicon chips are made and just how clean and automated Intel’s factories have to be to keep the chips working. But you won’t only learn about Intel’s products from a distance—you’ll also get to engage in interactive activities in the Learning Lab.

You can request a special field trip program for your girls’ coding group or a guided tour for your adult tour group by calling 408-765-5050 or emailing [email protected] . Adult groups can also take a self-guided tour with no reservation needed. 

Address: 2200 Mission College Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95054

Bus parking: The museum has designated parking, but if it fills up, your charter bus can drop you off and return to pick you up at the end of your visit.

Field Trips in the Bay Area

The Triton Museum of Art and the Intel Museum mentioned above both welcome field trips, but GOGO Charters can also help your class reach educational destinations throughout the Bay Area. If you want to visit the Computer History Museum in Mountain View or The Science Factory in San Jose, rent a coach with plush, reclining seats to get your class there more comfortably.

Going all the way to the Children’s Creativity Museum, Chinatown, or Alcatraz in San Francisco? You don’t want to deal with 50 bored children on an un-airconditioned school bus. Charter buses not only have climate control but also feature free WiFi and TVs with DVD players. Put on a movie, ask your kids to complete online activities, or just let them listen to music until you reach SF.

College Tours of Santa Clara University

GOGO Charters can easily transport your group of college-bound seniors to Santa Clara University, a Jesuit college in the center of the city. Don’t worry about your kids piling into carpools with each other and getting lost or becoming distracted while driving. A minibus will keep everyone together until you reach this beautiful campus that boasts a 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

Santa Clara blends a commitment to innovative technology (it is in Silicon Valley, after all) with an equally strong commitment to leaving the world a better place that comes from its Jesuit heritage. The university is also known for its sports programs, especially its women’s soccer program.

Santa Clara University

Address: 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95053

Where to book your tour: https://ugrdslate.scu.edu/portal/visitscu

Bus parking: When you book your tour, you’ll receive free parking on the third floor of the parking structure. Minibuses should be able to fit, but if your charter bus can’t, let the admissions office know so they can provide instructions.

Sports in Santa Clara

Santa Clara’s home team is The University of Santa Clara Broncos, who play a variety of sports, including basketball, baseball, tennis, and soccer. The campus has limited parking, so it may be a good idea to have your charter bus drop you off at Stanton Soccer Field or the Leavey Center before the game begins.

Stanton Soccer Field

Address: Stanton Soccer Field, Santa Clara, CA 95053

Leavey Center

Address: Leavey Event Center, Santa Clara, CA 95053

Levi’s Stadium

Home of the San Francisco 49ers

Address: 4900 Marie P DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara, CA 95054

Santa Clara Wedding Shuttles

If you’re getting married in the Bay Area, Santa Clara’s wedding venues offer a welcome alternative to San Francisco’s higher-priced hotspots. Check out the Santa Clara Marriott, the historic Jamison-Brown House behind the Triton Art Museum, and the Adobe Lounge at Santa Clara University for your celebration in Northern California.

If you have guests coming from out of town, they may be a little overwhelmed by the Bay Area’s packed interstates and expensive rideshares. Save your relatives some stress by booking a shuttle bus to take them from their hotel to your ceremony and reception. Once the reception ends, the bus will whisk everyone back to the hotel so you don’t have to worry about who does or doesn’t have a DD.

Corporate Travel in Santa Clara

Santa Clara has several event venues that can host conferences, trade shows, and large meetings. If you need transportation from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport to your hotel, rent a bus so your entire department can stick together and no one has to worry about finding a taxi or rideshare. You can also request power outlets and free WiFi so you won’t get behind on emails during your drive to the Santa Clara Convention Center.

Trips from Santa Clara to San Francisco

Since San Francisco lies only an hour away from Santa Clara, it’s common for schools in Santa Clara to head to SF for field trips and for businesses to attend meetings or conferences there. If you need safe transportation from Santa Clara to San Francisco that ensures everyone will arrive at the same time, try a charter bus from GOGO Charters. One of the professional drivers in our network will battle Northern California’s traffic while you sit back in a reclining seat and read a book or scroll through your phone.

Long-Term Shuttles to Silicon Valley

GOGO Charters can also provide recurring shuttle service for employees going from Santa Clara to tech campuses in Silicon Valley. Just call our shuttle reservation specialists at 1-844-897-5201 and let them know what size of bus you need, whether you need it on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, and what route it should follow. We’ll pick your employees up from designated stops or from the train station so they can relax for the entire ride and still get to the office on time. You can even request electrical outlets and free WiFi to ensure your coworkers don’t run out of power or data before they arrive at work.

Prices for Santa Clara Charter Buses

We take into account a lot of factors when determining the cost of your charter bus rental in Santa Clara: your starting and ending cities, how far you have to travel, how many people you’re bringing with you, and what time of year you’re traveling, to name a few. Our pricing guide provides a more detailed breakdown of how we figure out your final cost.

If you’d like an exact quote, you can get one for free and with no obligation to book by calling us at 408-849-4440. Our reservation experts are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to give you a personalized estimate.

Rent a Charter Bus in Santa Clara

Whether you’re attending an event in Silicon Valley, touring the Triton Museum of Art, or taking a group of kids to California’s Great America, GOGO Charters can help you get around Santa Clara without losing anyone from your group or scrambling to find rideshares. If you’re planning to travel a little farther, a charter bus provides a comfortable and low-stress way to reach Balboa Park , the Castro and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Give us a call at 408-849-4440 so we can find the perfect charter bus for your trip around the Bay Area.

Live reservation agents are available 24/7

Popular Bus Types

We have access to a wide variety of bus types and bus models. You can see a few of those below. Call us if you don't find what you need!

39 - 56 Passengers

Van Hool Bus

36 - 56 Passengers

35 - 56 Passengers

25 Passengers

Rent a Charter Bus to a City Nearby

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Solo travel

The best way to travel solo? With us. On our solo tours, you’ll enjoy a private room at no extra cost—and your tourmates will be solo travelers, too. By the time your tour ends, we’re pretty sure your group will feel more like family.

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Adventures (and new friends) await

Been waiting for the perfect travel companion to come along? That’s us—and the friendly, up-for-anything solo travelers you’ll meet on tour.

Whatever your reasons for traveling solo, you’re not alone: More and more travelers—1 in 4, to be precise—are choosing to set out solo. Watch our video to see what going solo’s all about.

Friendship. Flexibility. Full planning support.

These are just a few advantages you’ll enjoy on our solo group tours.

You’ll become part of a close-knit community

Explore alongside other solo travelers who share your curiosity about the world and your craving for meaningful connections.

You can go where and when you want

Fancy seeing Ireland at its lush, summertime best? Or maybe a year-end trip to Egypt’s more your speed. It’s 100% up to you.

You’ll have a room all to yourself ( ahhh )

At the end of each day, you’ll wind down, stretch out, and rest up in your own private room, and it won’t cost you anything extra.

You won’t have to sweat the details

We’ll plan hotels, meals, activities, and transportation . You? Focus on new sights, sounds, and flavors—and friendships taking shape.

We’ll have your back every step of the way

On your trip, you’ll be accompanied by one of our best-in-the-biz Tour Directors. Plus, our global staff will be here to support you 24/7.

Solo travel’s always in season

The beauty of traveling solo? Taking off whenever you want to—summer, winter, or anytime in between. We offer Solo Tours around the world and all year round. So, whenever you’re ready to go, a just-right tour will be, too. Here are just two ways to experience your dream solo escape.

Thailand for Solo Travelers

Escape the chill at home—and avoid Southeast Asia’s rainy season—with a wintertime Thailand tour. Bond with other solo travelers while market-hopping in Bangkok, snorkeling off the coast of Phuket, and more.

Central Europe for Solo Travelers

The best time for a solo sojourn through Central Europe? Summer, when green Alpine trails, sparkling Swiss lakes, and stately palaces from Bavaria to Vienna beckon with full-on fairytale charm.

Your solo adventure starts here

History buff? Outdoor enthusiast? Architecture admirer? We offer Solo Tours for all interests in more than 20 countries, from Austria to Egypt and beyond.

Solo travel made easy

With lots of options—and ways to connect with fellow solo travelers—at your disposal, this is how simple (and fun) solo travel can be.

We offer Solo Tours to Portugal, Peru, Egypt, and beyond. Need help deciding? Chat with us or schedule a call . We’ll help narrow down the choices as we get to know you.

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour when you sign up for AutoPay —a hassle-free way to make interest-free, monthly payments leading up to your tour.

Once you’ve booked, download our free mobile app and connect with your fellow travelers before tour. You can also check out your itinerary, scope out your hotels, and more.

As a member of this supportive online community , you can swap travel tips and inspo with other solo travelers. (And who knows? You might even meet a new travel pal.)

On tour, you can explore even more in depth during sunset cruises, cooking classes, and other excursion options. Want your trip to last a little longer? Add its extension.

The moment has arrived—and so have you. Meet your group in your arrival destination, and spend the next several days soaking up culture and newfound friendships.

What travelers are saying about their Solo Tours

Even more tours to choose from.

In addition to our solo trips, you can join any of our 200+ group tours as a solo traveler. Check out some of our most popular trips.

FAQs and benefits of traveling solo with a group

Solo travel can offer you a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, gain independence, and have an adventure. Plus, going on a guided tour as a solo traveler comes with great perks—including, private rooms in handpicked hotels, local experts and a Tour Director to handle all the details, and the company of equally curious travelers to share your journey. Here are a few other compelling reasons to go solo:

• Take the guesswork out of exploring someplace new. Need tickets to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna? Want to dine like a true Italian at a local’s home in Rome? Wondering how to hire a boat to float down the Nile River? Our experts will help you securely and easily navigate a destination you’ve only dreamed about exploring.
• No need to find a travel partner. Perhaps the biggest reason people  travel solo  is not having someone with matching travel interests. Traveling solo opens up a whole new world of possibilities. You get to go where you want, when you want, chasing your dreams without waiting for someone to come along for the ride.
• Enjoy adventures beyond your comfort zone. Traveling solo isn’t just exhilarating, but easy on one of our small-group adventure trips . You’ll find yourself learning and trying new things, from what you do (hands-on activities) to where you’ll go (roads less traveled) to how you'll get around (think outside the bus). All you need to get started is an open mind, a good pair of walking shoes, and a passion for taking the side streets.

Discover more reasons why people choose solo travel  →

Thanks to its mix of culture, history, natural landscapes, and centuries-old culinary traditions, Europe is an ideal destination for travelers who book solo vacation packages. Individual countries and regions of Europe also make great choices when you go solo. For the best solo travel experiences, we recommend the following:

• Greece .  Explore the best of the Greek Islands alongside fellow solo travelers as you hop from Athens to Crete and over to Santorini.
• Portugal .  Sampling Portugal’s signature pastel de nata, a flaky and flavorful custard tart, is much more fun when you have new friends to share in the excitement of taking that first bite.
• Peru .  Make your way from cosmopolitan Lima to historic Cuzco to the sweeping Sacred Valley—and mystical Machu Picchu—alongside fellow solo travelers.
• Central Europe .  Whether you’re excited to see Bavarian castles or sample Swiss chocolate, there’s no better way to tour Switzerland, Germany, and Austria than with like-minded travelers.
• Egypt .  With fellow solo travelers by your side, you’ll decipher hieroglyphics at towering temples, stand in the shadows of the Pyramids of Giza, and take to the Nile by boat.
• Ireland .  Green landscapes and frothy Guinness await solo travelers on the Emerald Isle, where making new friends comes naturally.
• Thailand .  Visit an elephant sanctuary and hop between Thailand’s temples, markets, and islands with fellow solo travelers.
• United States .  You don’t need to go international to go solo. America’s majestic  national parks are a great choice for solo travel tours.
• Japan .  Be dazzled by Japan’s natural beauty, rich history, and distinctive cuisine—and bond with your fellow solo travelers over hands-on activities, such as cooking classes.
• Kenya .  Majestic wildlife, vibrant culture, and warm locals make for the ultimate mix when you join fellow solo travelers on an epic journey across Kenya.
• Spain .  Spain charms from Catalonia to the Costa del Sol with its mix of cosmopolitan, coastal, and cultural treasures on solo travel tours.
• Italy .  Travel solo (but never alone!) as you eat your way through Italy with fellow foodies, while taking in the classic sights and delicious cuisine.

For more inspiration, check out  eight of the best places to travel solo →

Consider your interests, budget, and comfort level in a foreign environment. Depending on factors such as language barriers and cultural differences, some destinations may be better suited for solo travel than others. Research your options and read reviews from other solo travelers. 

For more inspiration, check out  eight of the best places to travel solo  →

Embrace new experiences, be open to meeting new people, and step outside your comfort zone. Take time to reflect on your journey and enjoy the freedom that comes with traveling solo. Remember to take plenty of photos and keep a journal to capture your memories. And take advantage of the Tour Director and local guides who’ll accompany you during your travels. They can recommend places to eat, sights to not miss, and things to do in your free time on tour.

Explore our favorite free-time activities for solo travelers →

Yes, if you’re looking to get out of your comfort zone. There’s free time to explore on your own, so you can be as social as you want. Traveling solo within a group can be a great way to break out of your personal space and meet others who share your passion for exploration. And there’s no easier way to find a new friend than on tour!

Tips for breaking the ice with fellow travelers on a solo tour →

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and connect with fellow travelers; they’re going solo, just like you! Here are a few tips and tools to help you feel confident when you travel solo:

• Check out our Go Ahead Difference page. You’ll discover all the perks of traveling with us, including unrivaled safety and support. Learn more about our Go Ahead Difference .
• Involve your friends back home. Let all your friends know about your travel plans and get their tips and tricks. Have them follow you along on your journey.
• Download our free mobile app . It puts everything you might need for your trip on your phone on one easy-to-navigate platform. Our app has not only the itinerary but also the addresses and contact details you need for your trip. Plus, we even include a list of your  fellow travelers  there. That way, you can connect with them before you leave for the tour and start building friendships you’ll strengthen when you’re finally on the road.
• Join our Facebook page. You’ll find lots of helpful info on our private Solo Travelers Facebook page , including answers to frequently asked questions.

Eight reasons to go guided as a female solo traveler →

The first thing to know is that even though you’ll be traveling solo, you won’t be traveling alone. You’re about to go on a trip with 14–20 people who will be solo, just like you. Plus, you’ll have your expert Tour Director to guide you along the journey. Solo travel is one of the most exciting ways to see the world. When you travel on one of our solo trips, you may not be with a friend you already know, but you’ll join equally curious travel lovers on the adventure of a lifetime. More important things to know before you go:

• Your Tour Director will meet you at the airport when you arrive in your destination
• We curate these tours with solo travel in mind
• Experiences are made for solo travelers to come together as a group
• You’ll make friends whom you could travel with in the future

We specially design our Solo Tours for solo travelers. When you join one of our solo travel groups, you’ll get your own included, private hotel room. Each day, you’ll be able to explore your destination alongside your tourmates, who are solo travelers, too. And you’ll have free time to explore your own interests at your own pace.

You’ll never be alone when you book one of our solo travel packages, even though you’re traveling solo. Our worldwide presence gives solo travelers the safety and security to discover the world with confidence. Here are just a few reasons to travel on our solo guided tours:

• Security of the EF global network
• Assistance from our On-Tour Support Team (they’re on-call 24/7)
• Getting the local’s perspective from your Tour Director and other guides
• Meeting equally curious travelers
• Enjoying the perfect balance of sightseeing tours and time to explore each locale at your leisure

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Colombia trips

If you’re looking for a destination that has it all, it’s time to check out Colombia. Explore Cartagena’s historic Old Town, walk the lively streets of Bogotá, sip the best coffee in the world near Medellín, and wash it all down with a trip to a tropical island. On a trip to Colombia you’ll do it all, and more.

Colombia Escape

Traveler photos from Colombia

Epic colombia trip.

“My trip to Colombia was packed with adventure, boat rides, great food, drinks and dancing and beautiful culture! I felt safe and we had the coolest tour guides! Highly recommend going on this trip!”

– Marcus, traveled on Colombia: Bogotá to Cartagena May 2022

So good, I’m coming back

“I fell in love with Colombia after this trip…The country is stunning, and the group was the best I could ask for….I did not want to go home and will def be going back to Colombia because of this trip :)”

– Destiny, traveled on Colombia: Bogotá to Cartagena May 2022

What do we do? What don’t we do?

Know before you go

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It’s fun and helpful to try your hand at the local language, Spanish! Try out some of these popular words and phrases:

• Hello: Hola
• How are you? ¿Cómo estás?
• Goodbye: Adiós
• Thank you: Gracias
• Please: Por favor
• I’m (your name): Soy (your name)
• I’m from (country of residence): Soy de (country of residence)
• How much? Cuánto cuesta?
• the bathroom: el baño
• the bus stop: la parada del autobús
• the pharmacy: la farmacia

You may be familiar with Colombia’s violent past, but it has made great efforts to move away from that history and focus on its endless cultural offerings. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about its history on guided tours and enjoy the modern paradise it has become today. Locals in Colombia are laid-back and friendly. Music is playing in every restaurant and on every street corner. Aromas of fresh arepas are floating through the air. Color is everywhere. Read on for more local tips!

• When members of the opposite sex or two women meet it is customary to exchange a single kiss on the right cheek. Men shake hands.
• It's polite to greet everyone in the room when entering with a simple "Buenos dias" or "Buenas tardes". This also applies when approaching someone on the street for directions or information.
• Be considerate when taking photos of locals, and know that some people might not want their photo taken at all, or will ask for a payment in return for the photo. When in doubt, just ask the person if you can take a photo of them.
• Nightlife in Colombia doesn’t typically begin until 10 or 11pm. You’ll find lots of locals and tourists in the same places, dancing to reggaeton, electronic, and more!
• “Hot water” really means temperate water in Colombia. Prepare for lukewarm showers!

Food & Drink

You’ll sample a variety of other local dishes on your trip, but read on for all the tips, tricks, and delicacies you must try.

• Coffee: Where else to drink coffee than in Colombia, the country with one of the world's largest productions? Colombians usually drink coffee called tinto, a small, cheap and sweet cup you can buy along the road.
• Empanadas: A perfect on-the-move snack! Empanadas are stuffed pastries with choice of chicken, beef, cheese, or veggies.
• Ajiaco: Popular in Bogota, this is a warm, hearty stew that compliments the surrounding chilly mountainous city.
• Arroz Con Coco: A specialty in Cartagena, this is coconut rice, typically served with a veggie salad and grilled fish.
• Ceviche: Raw seafood ‘cooked’ in lime and chili - trust us, try it!
• Sancocho: A traditional Colombian stew. The heartiest is made with tripe.
• Chocolate con queso: Chocolate and cheese. Insanity? Or brilliant? Try it for breakfast or an afternoon snack and decide for yourself!
• Cazuela de mariscos: A hot seafood soup made with coconut milk, veggies, spices, prawns, and more! We recommend you try it as a beach treat… seriously.
• Fruits & Veggies: Bananas, passion fruit, avocados, tomatoes, pineapple, lychee, these aren’t the fruits and veggies your mom told you to eat. They’re 1000x better.
• Mango Biche con Sal y Limon: Mango with salt and lemon. A popular street food in Cartagena!

We plan it all. And then some.

Our group trips to Colombia come with everything included. That’s accommodations, flights (unless you wanna book your own), activities, and an expert Tour Director who knows where to find the best arepas…ever.

Round-trip flights & airport transfers (or book ’em yourself)

Multilingual Tour Director & local guides

Sightseeing activities and excursions

Entrance tickets to top attractions

Metro passes in major cities

Hand-picked accommodations

New travel BFFs

Welcome Dinner & Farewell Dinner

Private deluxe motorcoaches

See everything we include →

More popular destinations

Dominican Republic

More regions to explore

Latin America

North America

Middle East

Australia & New Zealand

Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA)

15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA)

Santa Clara is a city of nearly 125,000 residents that’s located in Santa Clara County, about 75 kilometers south of San Francisco .

The city was founded more than 200 years ago as a Spanish Mission. Now, it’s most well-known for its booming tech industry that’s commonly referred to around the world as Silicon Valley.

Though it’s common knowledge to most football fans, it’s a surprise to many to discover that the relatively small city is also the home of the National Football League’s San Francisco 49ers.

Visitors to Santa Clara have abundant activity options at their fingertips without venturing outside city limits, so staying engaged and entertained shouldn’t be an issue.

1. Levi’s Stadium

With a capacity of nearly 70,000, Levi’s Stadium on Marie P. DeBartolo Way in Santa Clara is one of the country’s premier professional football stadiums.

The 49ers play their home games here, and during the off-season, the stadium hosts a variety of annual events, including concerts featuring big names in the music industry.

Taking a family to a football game isn’t the least expensive activity option in the area, but for those who’ve never taken in a pro game, it’s an exhilarating experience that may be worth the cost.

Guided tours are also regularly available, and the bars and restaurants around the stadium are fun to visit year-round.

2. Ulistac Natural Area

Despite its large population and the overall hustle and bustle, the Bay Area features plenty of urban parks and natural areas that are convenient options for those interested in enjoying the great outdoors.

The Ulistac Natural Area is located on Lick Mill Road in Santa Clara. It is comprised of more than 40 acres that include a variety of distinct environments.

The natural area straddles the Guadalupe River and is home to an array of plants and animals that are well-suited to its riparian habitat.

A particularly popular attraction for bird watchers, it features a number of well-marked nature trails dotted with interpretive signs.

3. Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival

Californians take their art and wine seriously, and there’s no better way to combine the two than by visiting the Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival.

The event is held in the city’s Central Park and features nearly 200 vendors from across the country selling fine art and crafts, gourmet food, and a vast selection of California’s best wines.

Proceeds are donated to worthwhile causes that benefit residents in need. It all takes place in the early fall when the central California weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Other highlights include live entertainment and lots of art-related activities for kids.

4. The de Saisset Museum

Though he’s not exactly a household name for those who don’t typically travel in West Coast art circles, Ernest de Saisset was one of the Bay Area’s most prominent artists in the 19th century.

Saisset was a French immigrant who enrolled in Santa Clara University and studied painting as a young man.

The museum that now bears his name is located on the university’s campus. It includes a collection of more than 100 of his most impressive works.

It’s as much a historical attraction as it is an art one, and it also has other works from European and American artists dating back hundreds of years.

5. Intel Museum

Intel is one of the titans of the tech world. Over the years, it has been responsible for some of the most significant technological leaps forward in computer hardware.

The Intel Museum is located on the campus of the company’s world headquarters in Santa Clara, and it’s regularly open to the public.

Even for those who don’t fall into the tech-savvy category, it’s a fascinating place that’s definitely worth an hour or two of time.

Though it may sound dry to technophobes, it’s packed with interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages, so it’s great for kids with short attention spans too.

6. Santa Clara Farmers’ Market

There’s really no better way to rub elbows with locals, enjoy pleasant weather, and have access to tons of great products you won’t find elsewhere than by visiting a farmers’ market.

The Santa Clara Farmers’ Market is open year-round and features a little bit of everything – from seasonal produce and fresh baked goods to health and body products and prepared food items.

Held on Jackson Street near the downtown area, it’s common to find different items each time you go.

Spending a few bucks is a great way to support local farmers and entrepreneurs, and don’t be shy about asking them for suggestions for things to see and do while in town.

7. California’s Great America

There’s no shortage of theme parks in the Golden State, but there’s one clear choice for those visiting Santa Clara.

California’s Great America is located on Great America Parkway just outside of town. It features tons of rides, dining options, kid’s activities, and a water park that’s a huge draw during the hot summer months.

Though Great America can really draw a crowd during peak times when kids are enjoying their summer vacations, previous guests have noted that wait times for rides weren’t overly long.

Many families choose to spend an entire day on-site to avoid wasting valuable recreational time in the car.

8. Mission Santa Clara

Mission Santa Clara is one of the city’s premier historic sites, and it’s now conveniently located on the campus of Santa Clara University.

The mission was established by Franciscans in the 1770s to spread Christianity to the area’s Native American population.

Sadly, things didn’t go according to plan; due to several natural disasters, the mission was forced to move from its original site to where it is now.

Over the years, it was also run by the Jesuits. Though it’s no longer functioning in its original role, it now doubles as a museum and chapel that are open to visitors.

9. The Triton Museum of Art

Though guests tend to visit the Triton Museum of Art for the works in its collection, its stunning contemporary architecture usually makes a big impression as well.

The museum’s collection includes works from all over the country, but its emphasis is on pieces created by Bay Area artists using local people and scenery as inspiration.

The grounds also include a sprawling outdoor sculpture garden spread over nearly seven acres, and a home from the mid-1860s that’s among the most well-preserved examples of historic American architecture in the area.

The museum is located on Warburton Avenue, and most visitors spend a few hours on-site.

10. Santa Clara Players

The Santa Clara Players traces its roots all the way back to the early ‘60s, when a group of local performers began putting on small shows for the community.

Now nearly seven decades later, they’re still going strong. Their annual performances run the gamut from dramatic theater and mystery to satire and humor.

The players are part of a community theater group staffed by talented volunteers dedicated to providing high-quality, family-friendly entertainment at a reasonable cost.

They’re located on Don Avenue in Santa Clara and offer lots of volunteer opportunities for budding actors and stagehands.

11. Central Park

Featuring lots of wide-open spaces and massive swimming and community rec centers, Santa Clara’s Central Park is a go-to destination for activity minded visitors looking to make the most of their limited vacation time without traveling to more distant attractions.

The park is centrally located on Keily Boulevard, has ample parking, and features lots of outdoor amenities and recreational activity options.

From tennis and basketball to softball, lawn bowling, and a big playground, there’s really no excuse for getting bored while on-site. For those looking to spend a relaxing afternoon, there are a lake, built-in BBQs, and public restrooms.

12. The 49ers Museum

Even for those who won’t be in Santa Clara during the regular season, the 49ers stadium and museum are fun attractions worth visiting for sports-minded visitors.

The museum is located inside Levi’s Stadium and features nearly a dozen distinct galleries that are open to the public year-round.

It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. In addition to football, its exhibits touch on science, technology, and art in a way that engages and entertains young and old minds alike.

Most guests check out the introductory video in the visitor’s center before showing themselves through the impressive collection of trophies, balls, and Super Bowl memorabilia on display.

13. The Santa Clara Fire Museum

The Santa Clara Fire Department’s roots run all the way back to the 1850s when it was founded.

The museum is now located on Walsh Avenue in an unused training center behind the city’s new fire station.

It sports an impressive collection of equipment and historical memorabilia that give visitors unique insights into the lives of fire and rescue personnel in years past.

The museum’s highlights include a fully restored Model-T fire truck that served for two decades, beginning in the 1920s.

The knowledgeable local volunteer staff also offer regular programs geared at educating the public about fire safety and prevention issues.

14. Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History

The Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History is run by a local historical society. It is housed in the depot of a now-defunct railroad on Railroad Avenue in Santa Clara.

Like many local historical attractions, the museum is staffed by local volunteers who love answering questions and showing first-time visitors around.

The museum’s exhibits include a variety of railroad equipment and memorabilia, including signals, safety equipment, and historical photographs dating back over 100 years.

The museum is regularly open to the public. It maintains an extensive library of books relating to railroad development and local history as well.

15. Voyager Coffee

Though it has only been around since 2016, Voyager Coffee’s owner and staff are dedicated to the noble pursuit of making their customers happy.

They do this largely by providing world-class coffee, but also by offering a comfortable space in which guests have opportunities to build relationships with like-minded customers.

Many of their coffees sport internationally influenced flavors, and they’re often infused with things like orange essence and cherry blossom water.

Don’t worry if you prefer your coffee straight-up, because they’ve got more traditional brews as well.

They offer fresh pastry and baked goods, tea, and other non-coffee drinks too.

15 Things to Do in Santa Clara (CA):

• Levi's Stadium
• Ulistac Natural Area
• Santa Clara Art & Wine Festival
• The de Saisset Museum
• Intel Museum
• Santa Clara Farmers’ Market
• California's Great America
• Mission Santa Clara
• The Triton Museum of Art
• Santa Clara Players
• Central Park
• The 49ers Museum
• The Santa Clara Fire Museum
• Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History
• Voyager Coffee