Why Small Group Tours in Europe & Asia Are the Best Way to Travel in Your 20s and 30s

12 February, 2026

Travel Smarter, Not Solo

If you’re in your 20s-40s, chances are you want more than just ticking countries off a list. You want experiences. You want culture. You want adventure. And most importantly — you want the right people around you.

That’s exactly why small group tours in Europe and Asia have become the go-to travel style for young adults.

Instead of planning every detail yourself or getting stuck in massive 40+ people tour buses, small group travel gives you the perfect balance of freedom, connection, and structure.

Whether it’s island hopping in Greece, temple hopping in Thailand, exploring the streets of Japan, or chasing waterfalls in Bali — small group tours simply hit different.

1. You Travel With Like-Minded People (18–40s Only)

One of the biggest challenges of traveling solo? You never know who you’ll meet.

With small group tours for young adults, you’re traveling with people in the same life stage — professionals, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, students, and adventure seekers. Everyone wants fun, culture, nightlife, and meaningful experiences.

This creates instant friendships. Many travelers leave Europe and Asia group tours with lifelong connections — and sometimes even business partners or travel buddies for the next trip.

2. You Get Local Experiences — Not Just Tourist Stops

There’s a huge difference between “visiting a country” and actually experiencing it.

Small group tours focus on authentic travel experiences:

Eating street food in Vietnam with a local guide
Watching the sunset in Santorini after a day of island exploration
Learning to cook Thai food in Chiang Mai
Exploring hidden alleys in Rome
Visiting lesser-known temples in Bali

Because the group size is smaller, guides can take you to places big tour buses simply can’t access.

That’s the magic of cultural tours in Europe and Asia — you feel immersed, not rushed.

3. Less Stress, More Adventure

Planning a multi-country Europe trip or a Southeast Asia backpacking adventure can be overwhelming: Flights + Ferries + Hotels +Transport + Activities + Local logistics. One mistake can ruin a full day.

With a guided small group tour, everything is organized for you — but without removing your independence. You still get free time to explore, shop, relax on beaches, or find hidden cafés.

It’s structured freedom. And for young travelers, that’s the sweet spot.

4. Better Access to Europe & Asia’s Best Destinations

Small group tours make it easier to combine multiple iconic destinations in one seamless trip.

In Europe, that could mean:

Athens + Mykonos + Santorini
Rome + Florence + Venice
Barcelona + Ibiza

In Asia, that could mean:

Bangkok + Chiang Mai + Phuket
Bali + Nusa Penida
Tokyo + Kyoto + Osaka

Instead of spending hours researching transport routes, you get a smooth, well-designed itinerary built for adventure and culture.

5. Safety Without Sacrificing Fun

Let’s be real — safety matters, especially when traveling internationally.

With a small group tour:

You’re never navigating a new city alone at night
You have a tour leader for support
You get insider tips on safe areas, transport, and local customs

This is especially helpful in destinations across Southeast Asia and parts of Europe where first-time travelers may feel unsure.

You get the fun of independent travel with the security of a group.

6. It’s Designed for Experience, Not Retirement

Traditional tours often cater to older demographics. Slower pace. Early dinners. Limited nightlife.

But group tours for 18–40s are different.

Think:

Beach parties in Thailand
Sunset boat cruises in Greece
Night markets in Vietnam
Rooftop bars in Rome
Adventure activities like snorkeling, hiking, ATV rides, and temple exploration

It’s built around energy, exploration, and connection.

Why Europe & Asia Are Perfect for Small Group Travel

Both regions offer diversity, culture, and unforgettable moments — but they also require coordination.

Europe offers:

History, architecture, food, and island escapes
Efficient travel routes between countries
Iconic cities packed with experiences

Asia offers:

Incredible value
Exotic culture and landscapes
Beaches, temples, mountains, nightlife

When combined with the small group travel format, both become effortless and unforgettable.

The Excel Trips Difference

At Excel Trips, our Europe and Asia group tours are built for:

✔ Small groups
✔ Like-minded travelers
✔ Local experiences with authentic guides
✔ A mix of adventure, culture, and fun
✔ Carefully designed itineraries with built-in flexibility

Whether you’re dreaming of Thailand, Bali, Japan, Greece, Italy, or beyond — the goal is simple:

Travel deeper. Travel smarter. Travel together.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

If you’re in your 20s or 30s and thinking about your next international trip, consider this:

You could plan everything yourself…
Or you could show up, meet an amazing group, and focus entirely on making memories.

Explore our Europe and Asia small group tours at
👉 www.exceltrips.com

Your next adventure is waiting. 🌍✨