Globus is shining a spotlight on its expansion of Small Group Discovery tours, purposefully designed from the ground up for deeper local access and authentic encounters.
The timing is certainly right as new research from MMGY Travel shows that small group touring is the most appealing travel style for 55% of travellers, signalling a growing appetite for experiences that feel more personal, flexible and immersive.
And in 2026, Globus is offering 61 Small Group Discovery itineraries worldwide, with groups averaging just 15 guests in Europe and 18 globally.
With fewer travellers, these new Small Group Discovery tours invite travellers to experience the world in ways larger groups can’t – from family-run farms and artisan workshops to hidden neighbourhood taverns and exclusive cultural experiences.
Steve Born, chief marketing officer with the Globus family of brands, observed that: “Travellers are realizing that tours are a leap forward from DIY. And small groups unlock a completely different kind of travel – one where doors open more easily, experiences feel more personal and every moment is designed to deliver more discovery with less stress.”
Among the most popular Small Group Discovery itineraries are journeys through Italy, Ireland and Japan – each designed to unlock moments that feel more personal, immersive and unforgettable.
Ireland Unveiled: Beyond the Blarney (10 days) is new in 2026, offering an itinerary that ventures beyond Ireland’s iconic landmarks to uncover the traditions, flavours and communities that define the Emerald Isle.
Experiences include:
- Baking scones and learning sheep herding at Rathbaun Farm
- Discovering coastal cuisine during a guided Irish seaweed tasting
- Crossing by ferry to Cape Clear Island, Ireland’s southernmost inhabited island
- Enjoying a medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle
Enchanting Italy (9 days) features everything from Rome’s legendary streets to hill towns of Tuscany, this tour invites travellers to experience the country’s culture and cuisine through intimate encounters.
Highlights include:
- An olive oil tasting and light lunch at a family-run frantoio farm in Perugia
- A private cooking class in Monteriggioni, followed by lunch
- A guided walk in Florence, uncovering the story behind historic “wine windows”
- A memorable stay in Tuscany at Relais Chiostro di Pienza, a restored 14th century monastery
Majestic Japan (11 days) allows smaller groups to unlock immersive cultural encounters that bring centuries of tradition to life. Guests will enjoy:
- Exploring Tokyo by subway with a local guide
- Sake tasting in Nagoya’s historic yokocho alleyways
- A traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto
- A ferry ride to Miyajima Island and the iconic floating torii gate
As for the ‘wow’ factor, across Globus’ Small Group Discovery tours, it’s the intimate, unexpected experiences that travellers remember most:
Walking Rome like a local: A stroll through the Eternal City includes stops at neighbourhood venues to sample regional specialties – experiences possible only with a smaller group.
Cooking Tuscany classics together: In Monteriggioni, guests join a private cooking class inside the medieval village walls before sitting down to enjoy their handmade dishes.
Learning Japan’s most beloved street food: Travellers prepare Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki during a hands-on cooking experience celebrating one of Japan’s most iconic dishes.
Born points out that: “With fewer travellers, the doors open wider. You connect more easily with locals, explore and stay in places larger groups can’t reach and experience destinations in the ways that feel most authentic.”
Go to www.traveladvisorportal.ca to learn more.
