UnTours

UnTours 🌍 UnPack Once in your European villa or apartment - trip planning, transportation & local support 🧳 UnTour (ən-tʊər): n. 1.

Vacation rental apartment packages with air/ground/support. 2. Vacation enabling one to live in a country instead of just traveling through. 3. Hassle-free trip planning with experts.

🇹🇭 Wondering what a week in Switzerland looks like on an UnTour? (Hint: No rushing, no rigid schedules!) 👀You’ll likely ...
02/11/2025

🇹🇭 Wondering what a week in Switzerland looks like on an UnTour? (Hint: No rushing, no rigid schedules!) 👀

You’ll likely arrive in Zurich (Switzerland’s largest international airport) before making your way to Meiringen, a dreamy little town that feels straight out of a storybook. And fun fact? It kind of is; Sherlock Holmes fans, you’ll already know this is where he and Professor Moriarty had their infamous showdown at Reichenbach Falls!

In a week, you could:
📍 Wander through Lauterbrunnen, a village where waterfalls tumble through the valley, and visit the picturesque Grindelwald.
📍 Learn how to yodel and discover the fascinating history of yodeling, a quintessential part of Swiss culture.
📍 Try your hand at Swiss chocolate-making (because, let’s be honest, we could all use that skill in our lives).
📍 Visit an alphorn workshop. These historic horns, once used in the mountains to guide cattle, now carry beautiful melodies. Each valley has its own distinct tune!
📍 Take a gondola up to the peaks, soak in beautiful mountain views, and tackle some fantastic hikes.
📍 Glide down the mountains on a funicular, catching even more jaw-dropping vistas, especially in MĂŒrren and Wengen.
📍 Stroll through the medieval streets of Thun, full of character and charm.
📍 Explore Bern, Switzerland’s underrated capital city, rich in history and culture, yet refreshingly relaxed.

But beyond all the sights, what makes UnTours so special is the freedom to explore at your own pace. With the guidance of our UnGuide, Urs (first photo—proud Swiss native, yodeling enthusiast, and your new friend), you’ll learn how to navigate the trains, where you should go based on your interests and the best restaurants for authentic food. Plus, you’ll get to stay in a real Swiss chalet, for a truly immersive experience.

Double tap if ’s Swiss UnTour photos have you ready to pack your bags and book a one-way ticket! 💚 And tell us: what’s the one experience you’re most excited to have when you finally UnTour in Switzerland? 👇

02/09/2025

If that sounds like you, then you’re what we call
 👇

An UnTourist! 😊

Being an UnTourist isn’t just about where you travel, it’s about how you travel.

Picture this: Instead of rushing through a whirlwind itinerary or following a tour guide holding a flag, you’re settling into a welcoming home in a local neighborhood. You’re sipping coffee at the same cafĂ© every morning, where the barista starts to recognize your order. You’re wandering down cobblestone streets, discovering quiet corners of the city you wouldn’t find in a guidebook. You’re learning the stories behind the landmarks, not just snapping photos.

An UnTourist doesn’t check off destinations; they become part of them. They slow down, immerse themselves, and let a place unfold in its own time. They value connection over convenience and curiosity over control. They savor the beauty of spontaneity, knowing that if they need a helping hand, an UnGuide is always just a call away.

As an UnTourist, you’re not just visiting a destination—you’re living it.

That’s the UnTourist way. Slow down, look closer, and discover the extraordinary in the everyday. 💚

📣 Ask any UnTourist who’s ventured to Nafplio, Greece, and you’ll find that food is a highlight of the trip. After all, ...
02/05/2025

📣 Ask any UnTourist who’s ventured to Nafplio, Greece, and you’ll find that food is a highlight of the trip. After all, there’s no better way to connect with a destination than through its local flavors, right? If you’re nodding along, give us a “double tap” to show you’re with us!

Sarah from our team had the chance to experience Nafplio for the first time last year and was very keen to investigate. Here were some of her favorite spots:

đŸœïž Aiolos Tavern – This is the quintessential Greek taverna experience, with tables spilling into a cozy alleyway, authentic dishes, checkered tablecloths, and a selection of over 150 Greek wines to complement every bite. Sarah’s favorites? The rich moussaka and tender beef stifado—classic, hearty, and full of flavor.

🌊 Alaloum – Sitting pretty on a hillside with sweeping views of the Aegean, this spot serves up Greek cuisine with a modern twist. Don’t miss the slow-cooked goat—perfectly tender and packed with flavor.

☕ Kalimera – Start your day the Greek way with handmade pies, creamy local yogurt topped with house-made jams, and expertly brewed specialty coffee. It’s the perfect breakfast before you explore more of Nafplio.

đŸ„ Skarpeta – This peaceful cafĂ©, mostly outdoors, is ideal for a leisurely breakfast or a quiet coffee break.

🎉 Valaora – Situated by the sea, this gorgeous restaurant is perfect for a special meal to wrap up your Nafplio adventure, or to celebrate a birthday or anniversary. The traditional rooster or the black pork from Mount Olympus are must-tries. Absolutely unforgettable!

Save this post for when you’re ready to UnTour in Nafplio and explore these amazing spots!

And of course, if you’re an UnTourist, you’ll have even more local recommendations at your fingertips through our app, plus the support of your own UnGuide, who can offer personalized suggestions, help with reservations, and ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and immersive experience.

Who else has Nafplio on their list for 2025? đŸ‡ŹđŸ‡· Go to https://www.untours.com/destinations/greece/nafplio to start planning (or daydreaming about) your next trip!

Say hello to Rosa Castillo, a Latina traveler, content creator, and passionate advocate for representation in travel. 👋B...
02/04/2025

Say hello to Rosa Castillo, a Latina traveler, content creator, and passionate advocate for representation in travel. 👋

Based in the NJ/NYC area, Rosa finds happiness not just in incredible food and vibrant culture, but in the excitement of exploring new places. Whether it’s a spontaneous road trip or an international getaway, she embraces both the journey and the destination with an open heart.

Like many, she once approached travel with a checklist mentality—determined to see and do it all. But over time, she embraced a slower, more intentional way of exploring. For Rosa, slow travel is about mindful immersion, forging connections with local communities, and supporting the people and businesses that make a place unique.

Through her photography and storytelling, Rosa brings an honest, relatable approach to travel—one that highlights both the beauty and the reality of exploring the world responsibly, with a special focus on inspiring the Latinx community.

We couldn’t be more excited to have her as part of the UnTours community! 💚 Follow her adventures at www.thetravelingroses.com and visit our blog https://www.untours.com/blog/introducing-unfluencer-rosa-castillo to learn more about her story and what being an UnFluencer means to her.

02/02/2025

What’s one thing you always try to do in a new place to understand the culture better?

If you ever stay at one of our farmhouse apartments among the olive groves outside Spoleto and Spello in Umbria, Italy, ...
01/31/2025

If you ever stay at one of our farmhouse apartments among the olive groves outside Spoleto and Spello in Umbria, Italy, be sure to ask Maria to show you the family’s local mill!

We love a locally owned place with an interesting story, and this agriturismo has a great one. The estate has been in the family for generations, and they still produce their own olive oil. While the process has evolved with modern equipment, you can still visit the old mill and learn how it worked in the past. You can try the olive oil and purchase some as well if you want to take some home.

There are three charming apartments on the estate, and the pool (shown in the first photo) is the perfect spot to unwind after a morning exploring the nearby villages and their stunning churches. The nearby village of Gubbio has around 30 of its own!

Have you ever stayed on a working farm during your travels? It’s just such a great way to immerse yourself in the area and learn from a local family along the way.

Link to our UnTours in Umbria: https://www.untours.com/destinations/italy/umbria

Meet Taylor Lindsay-Noel, the inspiring voice behind Access By Tay, and our newest UnFluencer! 👋 Taylor turned a life-al...
01/29/2025

Meet Taylor Lindsay-Noel, the inspiring voice behind Access By Tay, and our newest UnFluencer! 👋 Taylor turned a life-altering spinal cord injury into an opportunity to advocate for inclusivity and accessibility.

Through her social channels, she shares honest reviews of restaurants and travel destinations, highlighting their accessibility features and inspiring others to embrace a world that welcomes everyone.

As one of UnTours’ newest UnFluencers, Taylor joins a group of passionate travel ambassadors dedicated to exploring the world with intention—championing sustainable, inclusive, and mindful travel along the way.

We are beyond excited to have her as part of our community!💚 Let’s show Taylor some love, follow her journey at , and head to https://www.untours.com/blog/introducing-unfluencer-taylor-lindsay-noel to learn more about her mission and why being an UnFluencer resonates so deeply with her values.

đŸ“·: Access By Tay

There’s something about the Greek islands, don’t you think? That irresistible mix of sparkling blue waters, charming har...
01/27/2025

There’s something about the Greek islands, don’t you think? That irresistible mix of sparkling blue waters, charming harbors, and the slow, sun-drenched pace of life. While many travelers set their sights on the famous Cyclades, let us tell you about two smaller islands, closer to the mainland and easier to reach: Hydra and Spetses. đŸ‡ŹđŸ‡·

If you’re UnTouring in Nafplio in the Peloponnese, you’ll already be in the perfect spot. Nafplio is where Greeks themselves like to come to unwind. It’s authentic, relaxed and the perfect base for exploring local wines, ancient ruins, and yes, the nearby islands of Hydra and Spetses.

📌 First up, Hydra. Just a short ferry ride away, Hydra feels like a place time forgot. There are no cars here—only donkeys and water taxis. This little island has a bohemian charm that has captivated artists and dreamers for decades, including Leonard Cohen who famously fell for Hydra, and never really left.

📌 Then there’s Spetses. While Hydra is laid-back and artistic, Spetses has a more sophisticated vibe, making it a favorite weekend getaway for stylish Athenians. But the island is more than its elegant charm, it’s steeped in history, having once been the home of Laskarina Bouboulina, a heroine of the Greek War of Independence. As one of the very few female naval commanders of her time, she played a pivotal role in the fight for liberation.

Whether you’re drawn to Hydra’s artistic soul or Spetses’ elegant atmosphere, both islands are just a hop from our UnTour homebase of Nafplio. And once you’ve explored their shores, you can return to your apartment to enjoy a glass of local ouzo, perhaps with a meze on your balcony, the church bells ringing in the distance, reflecting on how this UnTour is allowing you to experience Greece from so many different angles (and you only had to UnPack once! 😀)

Swipe through for Sarah’s pics from last year when she UnToured Nafplio. 😍

https://www.untours.com/destinations/greece/nafplio

Meet Jessica Human of We Chose Adventures, our newest UnFluencer! 👋 A few years ago, Jessica and her family made a bold ...
01/24/2025

Meet Jessica Human of We Chose Adventures, our newest UnFluencer! 👋 A few years ago, Jessica and her family made a bold and inspiring decision:

They downsized their lives to create more space for their shared love of the great outdoors. Now, through her blog and Instagram, she shares their adventures, inspiring others to slow down, embrace simplicity, and focus on what they love.

As an UnFluencer, Jessica brings a unique perspective to our mission of celebrating beloved destinations while encouraging a thoughtful, sustainable approach to travel.

We’re thrilled to welcome her to the UnTours community! 💚 Show Jessica some love, follow along on her journey, and visit our blog (https://www.untours.com/blog/introducing-unfluencer-jessica-human) to learn more about slow travel, how it aligns with her values, and why being an UnFluencer is such a perfect fit for her.

đŸ“·:

Raise your hand if staying in an apartment by a picturesque canal in Holland and experiencing local life is something yo...
01/23/2025

Raise your hand if staying in an apartment by a picturesque canal in Holland and experiencing local life is something you’d love to do one day! ✋

Here’s a fun fact: The Netherlands is below sea level, which meant the Dutch had to get creative with water management. Canals were developed to control floodwaters, manage water levels, and even reclaim land from the sea. During the Golden Age (17th century), canals also became vital for trade, helping goods move efficiently between cities and ports. In places like Leiden, they weren’t just functional—they were also a major part of urban planning, helping the city grow into a beautifully organized and navigable space.

Now, about those charming houses you see along the canals: they’re typically narrow but tall. Back in the 17th century, taxes were based on the width of the house facing the canal, so locals built deep, narrow homes to minimize tax liability. These narrow houses often rise multiple stories high, creating the distinctive look we know today.

If you look closely, you’ll notice steep gabled roofs on many canal houses, often with intricate decorative features. These roofs weren’t just pretty—they provided better attic storage and even had hooks to hoist furniture to upper floors, as staircases inside were often too narrow.

You might also spot step gables—a unique architectural feature that gives the houses their characteristic look and serves to support the roof and promote drainage. And the colors! Many canal houses are painted in deep, earthy tones like reds, browns, and blacks, which were historically cheaper and more durable. But in the city center, you’ll find more vibrant, ornate colors adorning the homes of wealthier merchants.

So, what’s it like living near these beautiful canals in Leiden? Well, you can start your day with a peaceful walk along the water, enjoy a coffee at a canal-side cafĂ©. You can rent a bike and cycle alongside locals, or take inspiration from the stunning views and try your hand at sketching or photography. The city itself also has so many museums and the countryside is gorgeous. The options are endless!

Learn more about our Holland UnTours: https://www.untours.com/destinations/holland/leiden/accommodations/old-rhine-2

Anyone else loves to hear the stories of the locals when they travel? If you find yourself in Umbria, Italy, we recommen...
01/20/2025

Anyone else loves to hear the stories of the locals when they travel? If you find yourself in Umbria, Italy, we recommend a visit to the Giuditta Brozzetti Atelier in Perugia, founded in 1921.

The story of the workshop goes back much further, with weaving in Perugia dating back to the 12th century. At the time, “Perugian Tablecloths” were prized altar cloths used in churches throughout Italy and beyond. These textiles were renowned for their quality and craftsmanship and can be seen in the works of famous artists such as Giotto, Leonardo da Vinci, and Ghirlandaio, whose paintings often depicted the cloths in liturgical settings.

The “Perugian Tablecloths” were valued not only for their religious significance but also for their domestic use. They were frequently cited in notary deeds and were included in dowries—such as Catherine de Medici’s when she married King Henry II of France. Despite a decline in demand from the 16th century, the craft endured, particularly in rural Umbrian countryside and convents, where women passed the techniques down through generations.

Giuditta Brozzetti, a pioneering female entrepreneur, revived this fading tradition in the early 20th century. Inspired by home weaving practices, she began creating high-quality textiles for home decoration. In 1921, she established her workshop, producing traditional Umbrian motifs and training others in the craft.

The workshop flourished under Giuditta’s leadership, and in the 1950s, her daughter Eleonora expanded the business to include fabrics for clothing and a fashion line, gaining recognition in Milan. In 1995, the fourth generation, Clara’s daughter Marta, joined the workshop. Marta, an interior designer, brought a modern twist to ancient techniques and played a key role in moving the workshop to the Church of Saint Francis of the Women in Perugia (isn’t the space gorgeous?!)

Today, you can visit, meet Marta, and learn about the ancient techniques of Umbrian weaving, still practiced on 18th-century looms.

Check out our UnTours in Umbria for more: https://www.untours.com/destinations/italy/umbria

A peek inside some of the apartments you can stay at in our new Basque Country UnTours 👀As with all of our UnTours accom...
01/15/2025

A peek inside some of the apartments you can stay at in our new Basque Country UnTours 👀

As with all of our UnTours accommodations, these have all been vetted by our team in person and they’re located in neighborhoods where the locals actually live, so you can immerse yourself amongst them and feel like a local for the duration of your vacation. Plus, they’re locally-owned, meaning your money stays with the locals—something we’re very passionate about.

UnPack Once, step out of your apartment, and go to Bilbao’s Mercado de la Ribera for fresh produce, enjoy a relaxing walk through Arenal Park, or sip a glass of txakoli at a local bar. Wander the streets, popping by pintxos bars, and decide each day what you feel like doing—whether it’s a leisurely ride up to Mount Artxanda for beautiful views of the city, enjoying the peace at Basilica de Begoña, soaking up the local art scene at the Guggenheim Museum, or watching a game of traditional pelota. Don’t miss spending a tranquil morning reading the newspaper at Plaza Nueva, a beloved gathering spot where locals often catch up with the news or chat with friends.

Visit our website to browse all apartments and chat with our team if you have any questions about our new Basque UnTours: https://www.untours.com/destinations/spain/basque-country

Meet Jon, our Basque Country UnGuide! 👋Jon is as local as they come – born and raised in the stunning Basque Country, an...
01/13/2025

Meet Jon, our Basque Country UnGuide! 👋

Jon is as local as they come – born and raised in the stunning Basque Country, and passionate about showing off both its food scene and diversity of landscapes. 

After trading in a career in engineering for adventure as a tour leader in Latin America, Jon saw how travel, when done right, can leave a positive, lasting impact. That’s when he found his true calling with us at UnTours – sharing the hidden gems, rich history, and culture of his beloved hometown with curious travelers just like you.

If you’re a foodie at heart and want to experience a place like a true local, Jon’s your guy. From the most beautiful nature spots to the best pintxos in town, he’s got all the insider tips. đŸ„˜đŸ·

Plus, he’s curated an incredible food tour in San Sebastián, included in all of our UnTours to the Basque Country. Stay tuned for more details about this amazing experience!

Swipe to learn more about Jon and hear his story firsthand!

📣 Introducing our newest UnTour destination: the Basque Country—Spain, but not as you know it! đŸ‡Ș🇾So, why the Basque Coun...
01/10/2025

📣 Introducing our newest UnTour destination: the Basque Country—Spain, but not as you know it! đŸ‡Ș🇾

So, why the Basque Country? âŹ‡ïž

Because it’s a part of Spain that feels entirely its own. Unlike much of the country, this region was never under Moorish rule, which means its traditions, culture, and even its own ancient language—Euskara, the oldest in Europe—have remained intact. This is Spain, but with a very different character and history.

📍 Your UnTour home base will be Bilbao—a city that’s completely reinvented itself. Once an industrial hub, now a cultural powerhouse, thanks in part to the addition of the iconic Guggenheim Museum in 1997, which sparked a design renaissance. Today, the city is a mix of cutting-edge architecture, walkable streets, and a transit system that makes it easy to explore.

📍 Then there’s San Sebastián—a dream for food lovers. With more Michelin stars per square meter than almost anywhere else, it has become a global culinary hotspot. But beyond the fine dining, it’s a relaxed seaside town with golden beaches, historic old-town streets, an endless array of tapas bars and a deep-rooted local culture that’s both rich and welcoming.

📍 You’re surrounded by stunning mountains, a breathtaking coastline, and lush wine country. The Basque coast is dotted with picture-perfect fishing villages like Getaria and Mundaka, where you can stroll through scenic harbors, watch surfers ride the Atlantic waves, or enjoy fresh seafood straight from the source. Inland, the rolling hills of Rioja Alavesa produce some of Spain’s finest wines, many still crafted using centuries-old methods. If the outdoors call to you, hiking trails through Urkiola and Gorbea natural parks offer spectacular hikes with views.

✈ And with new direct flights from the U.S. to Bilbao launching this year, it’s easier than ever to immerse yourself in this fascinating region. So, whether you’re drawn to history, architecture, food & wine, or the great outdoors, the Basque Country will have something for you.

Don’t just visit it. Live it. âžĄïž If you’d love to experience the Basque Country the UnTours way, head to: https://www.untours.com/destinations/spain/basque-country

01/09/2025

And this is why we think you should base yourself there to explore Holland 👇

Leiden has all the charm of Amsterdam’s canals, but with fewer crowds. It’s a city that’s rich in local character, history, and art, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself fully in Dutch life.

Here’s what we love about it:

âžĄïž The canals – While Amsterdam may steal the spotlight, Leiden has its own canal network, with waters that run through the heart of the city and traditional Dutch canal houses lining the banks.

âžĄïž Cycling – Cycling is very much a thing in Leiden too. Rent a bicycle and pedal your way through the city among the locals as they cycle to meet friends, work, and school. It’s one of the best ways to experience the city!

âžĄïž Museums – Leiden is a cultural treasure trove with 13 museums to explore! From the National Museum of Antiquities, with its incredible collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, to the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, where you can learn about the Pilgrims’ journey to the New World, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention the Rembrandt House, celebrating the city’s most famous son, and the Botanical Gardens, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

âžĄïž Day trips – And there’s plenty more to explore in the surrounding areas: Keukenhof Gardens to see the tulips in full bloom, the iconic Zaanse Schans to see working windmills, and nearby cities like The Hague, Delft, and Rotterdam for a mix of modern architecture and history. The seaside towns of Katwijk and Noordwijk are also just a short ride away for a day and well worth a visit.

So, what do you say, Leiden next?

Head to our website to browse our UnTours in Holland!

đŸ‡łđŸ‡±

📣 2025 CHRISTMAS UNTOURS DATES ANNOUNCED 🎄Our new Christmas Untours got a lot of attention last December, with so many o...
01/08/2025

📣 2025 CHRISTMAS UNTOURS DATES ANNOUNCED 🎄

Our new Christmas Untours got a lot of attention last December, with so many of you asking about 2025 dates—so here they are!

📍 Vienna, Austria – 28th of November to 7th of December 2025
📍 Alsace, France – 6th of December to 13th of December 2025

We strongly recommend booking ASAP! ✹ Accommodations in these festive wonderlands fill up nearly a year in advance.

With a Christmas UnTour, you’ll go beyond the markets and twinkling lights. You’ll experience holiday traditions like a local, with expert guidance, special seasonal activities, and plenty of free time to soak up the magic at your own pace.

🎁 Want in? Visit our website to learn more, or chat with our team via live chat, phone, or in the comments below! Let’s make your 2025 Christmas extra special. https://www.untours.com/travel-styles/christmas-markets

Why go to Switzerland on an UnTour instead of independently or through a group trip?Much like with independent travel, y...
01/07/2025

Why go to Switzerland on an UnTour instead of independently or through a group trip?

Much like with independent travel, you get to pick and choose what you want to see and do and when. No need to be on a bus with 20 other people at 7:30 in the morning. No packing and unpacking. No need to go with a group to a museum when you would rather visit go on a hike. Your schedule is your own to see and do what you want when you want.

Unlike if you were going on your own, however, with an UnTour, you benefit from the guidance of a local UnGuide—a friendly expert offering tips, recommendations, and support throughout your trip. You'll stay in a pre-vetted, beautiful chalet, receive a train pass (the best way to explore Switzerland!), access to a special cultural experience with your UnGuide and everything you need so you get to experience the country like a local and have a more immersive exploration than you would on your own or on a group tour.

Thank you to Mandy () for capturing so beautifully what it’s like to UnTour in Switzerland!

For more information on our UnTours in Switzerland, click here: https://www.untours.com/destinations/switzerland

Stop your scroll! 🚹 We’ve just added this dreamy 17th-century fairytale house in Bacharach, along the Rhine River in Ger...
01/06/2025

Stop your scroll! 🚹 We’ve just added this dreamy 17th-century fairytale house in Bacharach, along the Rhine River in Germany, to our site—and we’re pretty sure you’re going to fall head over heels for it, just like we did! 😍

Ever wondered what it’s like inside those charming half-timbered houses? Well, now’s your chance to find out. This beautifully restored, 350-year-old half-timbered house in medieval Bacharach is the perfect place to experience life like a local there.

Imagine walking through lush vineyards stretching across the hillsides, or enjoying a quiet moment by the water with a good book, watching the boats glide by. Stroll up to the ruins of Burg Stahleck—a lesser-known spot with stunning panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Pop by the town’s weekly markets for fresh produce, handmade goods, and, of course, some local wine to sip at home.

Speaking of your home, it has wonderful views of Castle Stahleck and the iconic Love Tower. Each window frames a picture-perfect scene, and the soft sound of the nearby creek makes the whole place feel so peaceful.

Take a closer look on our website and imagine yourself relaxing here, surrounded by history, beauty, and the slow rhythms of Bacharach. https://www.untours.com/destinations/germany/german-rhine/accommodations/fairytale-house-bacharach-germany-rhine

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Untour (ən-tʊər): n. 1. Vacation rental apartment packages with ground transportation and staff support. 2. Vacation enabling one to live in a country instead of just traveling through. 3. Hassle-free trip planning with experts.