Tours FAQ

How do I sign up for a tour and how much is the deposit?

Bookings can be made on our website with a $400 deposit for each traveler. Solo travelers also pay the single supplement fee when booking.

How do I apply a credit to my tour?

Sign up for your tour online and we'll apply your tour credits to your final balance when we process your booking.

What is your cancellation policy?

Tour deposits are fully refundable for 30 days from the date they are received, unless otherwise noted in our Tour Conditions. Once your deposit refund date has passed, your deposit will not be refunded under any circumstance.

How do I cancel my tour?

If you need to cancel your tour you must notify RSE immediately in writing: sent via email to [email protected] or mailed to 130 4th Ave N, Edmonds, WA 98020. Cancellations become effective on the date received by RSE and are governed by the RSE Tour Conditions.

How will I receive a refund?

If possible, refunds will be issued against the original form of payment (the same credit card used). If we're not able to refund the original form of payment, or if payment was by ACH or check, we'll send a check. If a tour credit was used for payment, the credit will be re-issued with the original expiration date. For full details see our Tour Conditions.

What are your terms and conditions?

Please see our Tour Conditions for the full details.

Are prices per person?

Yes, prices are per person, in US dollars. The price of your tour is guaranteed the moment we receive your deposit.

Are flights included in the tour price?

No, our tour prices don't include airfare. Your flight arrangements are completely up to you.

Are there any age restrictions for tour members?

We have no official upper age restrictions as long as you're physically fit and a strong walker, but we do have some guidelines for children. Teens are welcome on all Rick Steves tours. Kids 8 and older are welcome on our Family Europe tours and My Way^® vacation packages. Tour members under 18 must room with a parent or guardian.

What types of rooms are available?

• Private Rooms for Solo Travelers: We have a limited number of extra-cost private rooms for solo travelers. The single supplement fee guarantees a private room — but not a larger or nicer room — and is paid when booking.
• Rooms for Couples: Couples are usually given rooms with one double bed, but two twin beds are also possible. Queen- and king-size beds generally aren't an option in most of the hotels we stay in.
• Twin Rooms: Rooms with two twin-size beds tend to be best for friends and siblings rooming together. Some of these twins can be cozy — separate mattresses and bedding placed side-by-side within one bed frame.
• Triple Rooms: A typical triple room has one double bed plus a single bed, rollaway, or cot. While we can request three twin beds, this configuration isn't common (for this reason, we do not recommend triple rooms for three adults).

How do I know if there are enough seats left on a tour?

We immediately update the number of seats available when a new booking, transfer, or cancellation is submitted. "Sign Up" means there are 11 or more seats remaining. "Filling Fast" has 10 or less seats remaining — and there is a chance it could fill while you're in the booking process (if this happens, we'll call you promptly to discuss your options). 

What is a "Single Supplement"?

It's an additional fee that guarantees a private room for a solo traveler. Single supplement costs vary by tour and can be found on each tour's webpage.

When and how should I pay the remainder of my tour balance?

The remaining balance for your tour is due in a single payment 60 days prior to departure. For your convenience, we offer secure online payment options for both electronic check and credit card. We also accept personal checks (US bank accounts only) and bank drafts or money orders in US dollars (US or Canadian banks only).

Can I transfer a reservation from one tour to another?

Yes, up to 60 days prior to your original tour's departure date, you can transfer to any other tour in the same calendar year as long as seats are available on the tour you want. Please email or call us at 425-771-8303 to verify a transfer is possible and make arrangements. Any changes in the tour price will be reflected on your new invoice.

Do you offer custom itineraries or private tours for large groups?

We don't offer custom itineraries and we cannot reserve a tour date for a private group. If you are traveling with a large party, each household can book their own reservation for an agreed upon departure with enough seats available for your group. For questions, please email [email protected].

Should I purchase trip insurance?

For information about insurance, see Rick's article "Do I need travel insurance?"

What tour discounts does Rick Steves offer?

• Tour Alum: Tour Alums receive a $50 discount for each tour taken prior to the departure year of a new booking. The discount is valid on one tour per calendar year and it is not transferable, but it is cumulative. For example, if you've traveled with us on two previous tours, you would receive a $100 discount when you book a third tour departing in a new calendar year. During the online booking process, you'll have the opportunity to note if you've traveled with us previously. We will apply the correct Tour Alum discount to your final invoice.
• Multi-Tour: When you take more than one tour during the same calendar year, you'll receive a $100 per person discount for each additional tour you book. If you put multiple tours into the same cart, you'll see your multi-tour discount listed on your order. If you place separate orders for multiple tours in the same year, we'll apply the discount when confirming the later booking.
• Cash/Check: Pay your tour balance amount by cash or check, and you'll receive a 2% discount.
• Kids: Children age 8–17 receive a $200 discount on our Family Tour itinerary.

What does "Waitlist" mean and how does it work?

A "Waitlist" departure date means there are currently no seats available. You can submit an order for any waitlisted tour without paying a deposit. If seats open up, we'll send an email to everyone on the waitlist and the seats will be filled on a first come, first served basis. (If a tour is departing in less than 30 days and seats become available, we are not able to notify waitlists). A deposit of $400 per person is required to secure the seat(s).

How many waitlists can I be on at the same time?

You may be on up to five waitlists. To be removed from a list either log into your Tour Account, or contact Customer Support at 425-771-8303 or [email protected].

What are the chances of seats opening up on a waitlisted tour?

In previous years, our tours have had about a 10% cancellation rate. Although it's difficult to predict when and how many seats might become available, we anticipate more seats may open two to six months before tour departure dates. Openings are never guaranteed. New bookings are accepted up to 30 days before the tour starts.

Can I be on a waitlist and confirmed on another tour?

Yes, you can be on up to five waitlists at the same time as you are confirmed on another Rick Steves tour. If you are on a waitlist, we will contact you if seats become available and you may transfer to your preferred tour. Please note: If you are booked on a tour that starts within 60 days, transfers to another tour are not possible.

How can I be removed from a waitlist?

To be removed, either log into your Tour Account or contact Customer Support at 425-771-8303 or [email protected].

When will I receive the list of hotels for my tour?

The names and contact information for your tour's first and last hotels will be available in your tour account once your reservation is confirmed. The complete list of hotels will be available in your tour account about one month prior to your tour's departure.

How do I make pre- or post-tour hotel reservations?

We can't make additional hotel reservations for tour members. We recommend booking additional hotel reservations through the hotel's official website or request a room by email using our handy Hotel Reservation Form as a guideline. Email is not a secure way to send credit-card information, so if the hotel doesn't have online booking, it's smart to call or fax the hotel to finalize your payment.

When should I fly to Europe and back?

Check your tour account and daily itinerary for your tour dates and exact start time of the "Day 1" welcome meeting. If traveling from the United States, you must depart at least one day in advance of your tour start date. We recommend that you book flights several months before your departure date — and much earlier if you want to use frequent-flyer miles.

What travel documents are required?

Everyone who joins a tour is required to bring a valid passport and provide passport information to Customer Support as soon as possible before departure. The State Department recommends that your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date and have a minimum of two blank visa pages. In addition to a passport, travelers visiting England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland need to apply for the United Kingdom's Electronic Travel Authorization (learn more about UK’s ETA). You're responsible for obtaining all required travel documents prior to your tour. If you're not a US citizen you'll need to contact your government to determine specific passport and visa requirements for traveling in Europe.

How do I apply for or renew a US passport?

To download a passport application, go to the US Department of State website. The standard processing time for new and renewal passports is currently about 4-8 weeks. A first-time passport application must be done in person at a designated passport facility. Renewals can be done by mail or online.

If you need your passport sooner, make an appointment to go in person to the nearest US Passport Agency. You'll pay an additional expediting fee, plus overnight shipping both ways. In a last-minute emergency, call 877-480-2778 and speak to a customer-service representative. If you can prove that you must travel within two weeks (by showing evidence of a purchased airline ticket), you may be able to receive a passport in 24–72 hours.

Will I need a visa?

Americans, Canadians, and residents of dozens of other countries are visa-exempt for the countries we visit on our tours but are now required to preregister for entry authorization before they travel in the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland), and starting in late 2026 will need to do the same for the rest of Europe. For more information on both these travel authorization programs, please see our FAQ,

Will I need any immunizations?

There are currently no shots required for travel in Europe or Turkey. You should, however, be aware of the rules where you'll be traveling and check with your doctor to see if you're up to date with regular immunizations.

How do I get to the start of the tour?

About a month before your tour departs, easy-to-follow directions to your tour's first hotel will be available in your online tour account. Once at the hotel, a sign in the lobby will describe where the group will meet on Day 1.

Does my luggage have to measure exactly 9 x 21 x 14 inches?

You must be able to comfortably handle all your luggage by yourself at all times. Therefore, we strongly advise you to limit your luggage to airline carry-on dimensions. Our online Travel Store sells carry-on-size rolling bags and backpacks.

What should I pack?

Packing light is essential! Bring versatile, comfortable clothing that you can layer. Pack for the season in which you'll be traveling, but expect some rain regardless of the time of year. For more ideas on what to bring, check out Rick's Travel Tips: Packing Light, where you can find packing lists for both men and women and a great video on packing skills.

What is a tour kit?

A tour kit includes the essential items you'll need for your tour: a guidebook (or books) with important maps and information about the places you'll visit on your tour and a money belt to help keep your valuables safe from pickpockets. When your tour kit is ready, we'll email you information on how to order it. For tour kit questions, please call Customer Support at 425-771-8303 during business hours — or leave a detailed message and we'll call you back.

What are the physical demands of your tours?

Our tours are physically active! Expect to be on your feet, walking and standing, for up to three hours, indoors and outdoors, and in all weather conditions. You'll also need to carry your own luggage, often up several flights of stairs.

What are your hotels like?

Rick Steves tour hotels are often quaint, sometimes creaky, full of two- and three-star personality, and run by friendly Europeans. Some don't have elevators, no (or weak) air conditioning, and spotty Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi only in common areas. 

What will the meals be like on my tour?

While on tour you'll eat like a local. Cuisine is typical of the region and can vary widely from country to country. Local beer and wine are optional at group meals, and at your own expense.

Can I get special meals for my dietary restrictions?

When it comes to group meals, we encourage you to eat with a spirit of adventure. Our tours are designed with this culture in mind, and dietary considerations are not built into these plans. However, if you have food allergies, a medically restricted diet, or a dietary preference, please alert your guide at the start of your tour, so they can assist you with group meals when possible. (There will be a short meeting about this on the first day of your tour.) Please note: Once you make your meal request, it is locked in for the duration of your tour. Tour members with dietary restrictions usually manage fine with a little flexibility and willingness to supplement meals if needed at their own expense.

How will I do laundry on my tour?

Most tour itineraries have accessibility to laundry services once or twice during the tour, and your guide will give you tips on when and where you can do laundry.

Will I need to know the language of the countries I’m visiting?

While it's not necessary to be fluent, it's nice to master a few basic courtesies such as "Please" and "Thank you." You can find a page of helpful phrases in each of Rick's guidebooks.

Is smoking allowed on tour?

No, you're not allowed to smoke or vape on the bus, in the hotel, or where other tour members are present. Nonsmokers, be aware that we can't isolate you from Europeans who smoke in public areas or hotels.

Are tips covered in my tour cost?

Your tour includes tips for the guide, driver, group meals, and housekeeping. Please do not tip beyond this. When you're out on your own it's customary to round up, or add a euro or two, rather than tip a certain percentage.

How much money will I need?

On fully guided tours, plan to spend between $50 and $100 per day for your beverages at group dinners, meals on your own, snacks, souvenirs, and free-time transportation and entrance fees.
For My Way tours you'll be responsible for the cost of all your lunches, dinners, and daily expenses — so your out-of-pocket expenses will likely be higher than on a fully guided tour. Be sure to plan and budget accordingly.

What happens if I get sick on tour?

We expect tour members to monitor their health and only travel if they're feeling well. However, getting sick while on tour can happen to anyone — and it can affect not just your trip, but your fellow tour members' trip, too. If you start to feel sick during your tour, notify your guide right away, so they can direct you to a local clinic or pharmacy for diagnosis and treatment. Also, if you're exhibiting symptoms of a contagious illness (such as cold, flu, Covid, etc.), we require you to wear a N95/KN95 mask while on the bus or in other settings with your group.

What's the best way to stay healthy while traveling?

For advice on how to stay healthy while on tour, see Rick's article: Tips for Healthy, Happy Travels.

What happens if I need to leave my tour after it starts?

If you must leave your tour for a Refundable Event, a pro-rated tour refund of $200 per day may be issued for the missed days. This is not insurance and is not intended as a substitute for comprehensive travel and health insurance. See our Tour Conditions for what qualifies as a Refundable Event.

Who can join a Family Europe tour?

As this tour is specifically designed for families and only runs in summer with a limited number of departures, we restrict bookings to family groups traveling with at least one child between the ages of 8 – 17. If your group is all adults (ages 18+), we offer a similar itinerary, the Best of Europe in 14 Days tour, with departures available from April — October.

What is the age range of kids on these tours?

Families with kids 8 and older are welcome on our Family Europe: London to Florence in 13 Days tour and on all Rick Steves My Way® vacations. Teens are welcome on all Rick Steves tours.

What documents will I need to bring for my children?

In addition to a passport/travel authorization/visa, any child under 18 who isn't accompanied by BOTH parents must bring a notarized letter, signed by both parents, allowing the child to be taken out of the US and also allowing the adult traveling with the child to seek any necessary medical care. The letter should include the child's legal name, date of birth as shown on his or her passport, plus dates and countries of travel. For details, call the US State Department at 888-407-4747.

What is different about a Family Tour?

The museum visits and lectures are livelier and slightly condensed to better match kids' interests and attention spans. Restaurants will also be family friendly. We encourage families to participate in the activities together — activities for the adults and children are not separated. Your guide and tour assistant are great resources for free-time options, but keep in mind they're not babysitters.

What will the rooming arrangements be like on a Family Tour?

Double-occupancy rooms (doubles and twins) are the standard in Europe. We have limited triple and single supplement rooms available as well. Our tour hotels will try to keep family members near one another as much as possible. In some unavoidable cases, the rooms may be on separate floors. Kids under age 18 must room with a parent or guardian at all times and may never be in a single room alone.

Do you have more advice for traveling in Europe with kids?

Yes! Traveling on a tour with kids can be a rewarding, memorable experience — for you, your child, and for other members of your tour group. To help make the most out of your trip, Rick has some great tips for traveling with kids in Europe.