Explore Australia, seductive and energetic, a country whose ancient culture is shaping its future. Your adventure begins in glorious Sydney. Cruise through the harbor, take an intimate, backstage look at the Sydney Opera House, and climb to the top of Sydney Harbor Bridge. Next are the Blue Mountains—legendary for waterfalls, kangaroos, wombats, and wine—before heading to the fabled Northern Territory.

Uluru. The Outback. Fall under the spell of Aboriginal creation stories. The Dreamtime, it’s called. When the sun sets, immerse yourself in the Field of Light and enjoy a bush tucker dinner, the voice of a single didgeridoo, and a local Indigenous performance. What dreams you will have in this nurturing land.

You’re off to discover Queensland, gateway to Australia’s natural wonders. Spend a full day in the paradise of Daintree, one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Traditional Kuku Yalanji guides welcome you inside their culture with a walk-and-talk, techniques of foraging and fishing, and a ceremony to protect you on your journey. Perhaps dip into a private swimming hole.

A cruise to the Great Barrier Reef is a treasure. Glide above coral beds or snorkel with a marine biologist. (Imagine turtles, clam gardens, and black coral.) Savor the delights of a tropical lunch, soak up the sun playing off turquoise waters, and let it all go. Leave Australia renewed in spirit and body, a feeling understood well by the authentic traveler.

Included Unique Activities

Take in the sights and enjoy morning tea or coffee on the morning cruise of Sydney harbour
Explore the iconic Sydney Opera House and bring to life the saga surrounding this modern masterpiece
Be thrilled by a guided journey to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, 134 metres above Sydney Harbour!
Journey into the heart of the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to enjoy lunch and magnificent views
With Uluru as your backdrop, enjoy canapés and sparkling wine while you view the critically acclaimed Field of Light art exhibition, an enourmous fantasy garden created from 50,000 spindles of light
Travel to a special location to enjoy a picnic breakfast as you watch the sun rise over Uluru, then visit Mutijulu Waterhole on the Kuniya Walk and hear stories of the local lore.
Journey to the mystical 36 domes of Kata Tjuta, and hear how they have evolved over millions of years
Full Day Daintree Dreaming Tour - Including interpretive rainforest walk, morning or afternoon tea, lunch, 2-hour Coastal Walk with Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours, & Welcome to Country Ceremony
Cruise to the Great Barrier Reef for either a guided snorkel tour with a qualified marine biologist offering reef interpretation, or coral touring via a glass-bottom boat. A tropical buffet lunch, morning and afternoon, teas & coffee provided.

Sydney Airport Private Transfer

Morning Tea Cruise on Sydney Harbor

Early Twilight BridgeClimb

Transfer from Ayers Rock Airport to Hotel

A Night at Field of Light

Afternoon Kata Tjuta Domes Tour

Morning Uluru Highlights Tour

Transfer from Hotel to Ayers Rock Airport

Accommodations

3 Nights

4-Star Harbor View Hotel

2 Nights

Magnificent View Hotel

3 Nights

Luxury Boutique Hotel

Transportation and Guides

Private Transfers to/from Airport to your Hotel
Private Transportation between activities included throughout

Points of Interest

Sydney Harbor Bridge
The Rocks
Sydney Opera House
Darling Harbor
Uluru
Kata Tjuta
Port Douglas
Cairns
Daintree Rainforest
Outer Great Barrier Reef

George Street, Australia

Chinatown, Australia

Darling Harbour, Australia

Sydney, New South Wales

Blue Mountains National Park, Australia

Daintree National Park, Australia

Port Douglas, Queensland

UNESCO World Heritage sites

Blue Mountains National Park

Dining Options Included (inclusions)

Breakfast each morning after your stay
3 Lunches, & 2 Dinners Included

Day 1

Accommodation

4-Star Harbor View Hotel - Sydney, New South Wales

Room Type: Superior Double

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Sydney Airport Private Transfer

Sydney, New South Wales

Today you will enjoy a private and luxurious transfer to/from Sydney Airport to your hotel.

Suggested Sightseeing

George Street, Australia

On the map: As one of the first streets in Australia, and one of the busiest streets in Sydney today, George Street is a central vein of the city. The street begins in The Rocks and continues south to Ultimo (another area of the city), where it ends at Railway Square. While the street is famous for being one of the oldest in the country, it is also known for connecting some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods and landmarks such as Chinatown, Sydney Town Hall, the Queen Victoria Building - a restored 1898 building filled with shops and cafes, Martin Place - Sydney’s best-known pedestrian mall, Circular Quay - complete with the ferry jetties and a train station, and The Rocks. If you are limited on time and wish to see as much as you can of the city, a walk down George Street can help you accomplish that! In the past few years, George Street has undergone a transformation to make it easier for people to travel from The Rocks to Railway Square. Along with a pedestrianised section between Hunter and Bathurst streets, a light rail running from Circular Quay to the suburbs of Randwick and Kingsford is being added - a project that is set to be finished in 2020.

Chinatown, Australia

On the map: Located downtown, off of George Street, Sydney’s Chinatown is the perfect mix of shopping and cuisine. While the original Chinatown was bound by classic Paifangs - commonly known as Chinese archways - on Dixon Street, the area has grown to incorporate George Street and Darling Harbour. Even though the area has grown, the heart of Chinatown is still considered to be the area between the Paifangs - now a section open only to pedestrians. The pedestrian-only area is home to traditional Chinese architecture and some of the best Chinese food in town. Just south of the Dixon Street section lies Market City, a building that houses Sydney’s largest Asian supermarket, a range of specialty shops, and the famous Paddy’s Markets. Chinatown is popular among both Sydneysiders and travelers for its colorfully-decorated streets and delicious eateries - some even open until 4am!

Darling Harbour, Australia

On the map: Darling Harbour is known as one of Sydney’s largest dining, shopping and entertainment neighborhoods - complete with waterfront dining, the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madame Tussauds, and the world’s largest cinema screen at IMAX. While the aquarium and zoo will keep young visitors happy, the King Street Wharf features quality restaurants, trendy bars, and colorful nightclubs that will keep older visitors returning again and again. The Pyrmont Bridge lays at the center of Darling Harbour and connects the eastern and western sides. On the west side of the harbour, you will find the Australian National Maritime Museum, where you can explore a submarine, destroyer, and a sailing ship. The south side of the harbour borders Chinatown and features the Chinese Garden of Friendship - a relaxing oasis filled with hidden pathways, exotic plants, ponds, and a tea cafe.

Arrive at

Arrive at Sydney Airport, Australia

Arrive at Sydney Airport after your overnight flight if you are coming from the U.S. or Canada.

Overnight Location

Sydney, New South Wales

On the Map: Sydney is a coastal city in New South Wales, on the southeastern side of Australia.The city is fed by many major highways and is 286 km (178 miles) northeast of Canberra (the capital of Australia) and 161 km (100 miles) southwest of Newcastle.

As the state capital of New South Wales and the most populous city in Australia, Sydney is a major cultural and economic center. With famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach and the nearby Blue Mountains, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this dynamic city. Visit the kangaroos and koalas at Taronga Zoo, walk the famous Bondi to Coogee Beach trail, browse the stalls at the weekly Paddington Markets, return to your childhood at Luna Park, or experience the endless amounts of rooftop bars that the city has to offer. For those who consider themselves to be foodies, Sydney is the perfect destination. Many of Australia’s most awarded and innovative restaurants are found here – from Japanese to Greek food – allowing visitors to experience first-class dining. Whether you decide to stop over on the way to another great Australian destination, or you choose to stay a while, Sydney will leave a lasting impression.

Day 2

Accommodation

4-Star Harbor View Hotel - Sydney, New South Wales

Room Type: Superior Double

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Morning Tea Cruise on Sydney Harbor

Sydney, New South Wales

Start your day with a 2-hour cruise around the world-famous Sydney Harbour. Take in the sights and delights whilst navigating the waterways of the harbour. Your informative captain and crew will entertain you throughout your morning cruise. During the cruise, enjoy a refreshing morning tea, served with coffee and juice.

Early Twilight BridgeClimb

Sydney, New South Wales

Begin your 3.5 hour tour with a comprehensive briefing and safety demonstration. Following the briefing, your Climb Leader will take you on a guided journey to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The tour takes you along the top arch of the Bridge and crosses catwalks and ladders all the way to the summit, 134 metres above Sydney Harbour. The steady incline to the summit leaves you free to focus your attention on the surroundings. Your tour will give you the opportunity to witness 360 degree views of Sydney, including east to the Sydney Opera House and west to the Blue Mountains and the Harbour City surrounds. Upon conclusion of the tour, you will receive a photograph of your climbing group, a personalized commemorative climbing tour certificate and a BridgeClimb hat.

Sydney Opera House Tour

Sydney, New South Wales

Discover the story behind the making of the world’s most famous opera house on this hour long guided tour. Your guide will take you on an emotional journey inside this modern masterpiece, putting its designer Jorn Utzon on centre stage. During your tour, you will learn why Utzon was more than an architect, he was an architect of change. You will also discover how, against a landslide of political and public criticism, he created the youngest building ever to be World Heritage Listed. Your guide will lead you into one of the working venues to experience the magic behind the world’s most extraordinary opera, ballet, symphony and dramatic performances.

Suggested Sightseeing

Sydney, New South Wales

Day 3

Accommodation

4-Star Harbor View Hotel - Sydney, New South Wales

Room Type: Superior Double

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Luxury Blue Mountains Day Trip

Sydney, New South Wales

Spend a full day exploring the beautiful Blue Mountains. This 9.5 hour tour travels to the Blue Mountains. Stop at Calmsley Hill, a working farm also home to Kangaroo, Emu, Wombat and Koala. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure. Visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas and enjoy a stress and hurry free environment. Arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout point away from the crowds for views of the famous Three Sisters. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day as the sunlight brings out magnificent colours. Stop at Blackheath and enjoy a 2-course lunch with tea/coffee (beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the bar). Visit a selection of lookouts. Experience the view of Govetts Leap and the magnificent waterfall. Stop briefly to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice at the delightful Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens, where you will enjoy sweeping views across to Sydney before travelling down the Bells Line of Road to Sydney. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your Sydney city accommodation.

Suggested Sightseeing

Blue Mountains National Park, Australia

On the Map: The Blue Mountains National Park is located in New South Wales, just outside of Sydney. The Park is reached via route A32 and B59 and is roughly 100 km (62 miles) west of Sydney.

The Blue Mountains National Park, aptly named for its blue horizon of eucalyptus tress that stretch on forever, is just a short drive from Sydney’s city center. With about 87 miles of walking tracks (most of which descend into the canyons) and stunning vistas, you can take in the scenery of the Blue Mountains from multiple viewpoints. Explore the Jenolan Caves, one of the world’s most spectacular cave formations; visit two of the region’s prominent towns, Katoomba and Wentworth Falls; and keep an eye out for the world-famous Australian wildlife. A trip to the Blue Mountains would not be complete without stopping at Scenic World, which offers skyway, cableway, and railway rides as well as a raised walkway through the rainforest. While each transportation system at Scenic World offers a unique view of the park, the railway is the center of attention. As the steepest incline railway in the world, taking you straight down into the canyon, it will leave you wanting to come back again and again!

Day 4

Accommodation

Magnificent View Hotel - Uluru, Northern Territory

Room Type: Double / Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 10 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Sydney Airport Private Transfer

Sydney, New South Wales

Today you will enjoy a private and luxurious transfer to/from Sydney Airport to your hotel.

Transfer from Ayers Rock Airport to Hotel

Uluru, Northern Territory

On arrival at Ayers Rock Airport, you are met by your Driver and coach and transferred to your hotel.

A Night at Field of Light

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

Your Field of Light experience begins with a convenient hotel pick-up and a drive to the remote desert location. With Uluru as your backdrop, you will enjoy canapes and chilled sparkling wine as you watch an unforgettable sunset. As darkness falls and the colored lights of the 50,000 glass spheres gently sparkle to life, you will enjoy a special three-course bush tucker inspired buffet. Your knowledgeable host will provide insights and background to the artist and light installation that awaits you. Enjoy the music of a lone didgeridoo and a local Indigenous performance as you dine. Following your meal, you are invited to immerse yourself in the Field of Light, its pathways glistening softly with rhythms of colored light, beckoning you to explore. Finally, take a lasting look back at the Field of Light from the raised viewing area as you enjoy a sweet treat, hot chocolate or port.

Overnight Location

Uluru, Northern Territory

On the Map: Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in Australia’s Northern Territory. Uluru is part of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and is roughly 468 km (290 miles) southwest of Alice Springs.

Uluru, more commonly known known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the outback of Australia. The formation is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is sacred to the Pitjantjatjara Anangu, the Aboriginal people of the area. Along with the formation itself, the area features springs, waterholes, rock caves and ancient paintings. Feel free to walk around the base of Uluru, visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, join a camel ride, and witness a sunrise or sunset at Uluru. Make sure to spend at least two nights in this area so you can take in all of the natural and spiritual beauty Uluru has to offer.

Day 5

Accommodation

Magnificent View Hotel - Uluru, Northern Territory

Room Type: Double / Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 10 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Afternoon Kata Tjuta Domes Tour

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

Discover the unique flora and fauna of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park at ‘The Olgas’. Your guide will reveal the many attributes of this diverse environment and describe the cultural significance of Kata Tjuta as a sacred Aboriginal men’s ceremonial site. Upon your arrival at Walpa Gorge, you will walk between the mighty conglomerate domes and hear how these 36 domes have evolved over millions of years. Be sure to take time to listen to the wind (Walpa) far above and view the scale of the rock walls that surround you. The spirituality of this breathtaking location embraces everyone who ventures here. Your guide will return you to your hotel just in time for those who wish to join the Sounds of Silence Dinner.

Morning Uluru Highlights Tour

Uluru, Northern Territory

Your 3-hour tour begins with a transfer from your hotel to the world-famous Uluru. Uluru’s vast shape rises from the sand dunes in the early dawn light, highlighting its presence in Australia. Your guide will take you to a special location from which you can watch the sun rise over the breathtaking monolith. During your outback picnic breakfast, you will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) and hear about the Mala people. Following breakfast, you will visit Mutitjulu Waterhole and drive around the base of the monolith.

Day 6

Accommodation

Luxury Boutique Hotel - Port Douglas, Queensland

Room Type: Double / Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is between 2 PM and 8 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Transfer from Hotel to Ayers Rock Airport

Uluru, Northern Territory

Today you'll meet your Driver and coach and transferred from your hotel to the Airport.

Cairns Airport Transfer

Cairns, Queensland

Today you will enjoy a private and luxurious transfer to/from Cairns Airport to your hotel.

Overnight Location

Port Douglas, Queensland

On the Map: Port Douglas is a small coastal town in the Queensland state of Australia. The town is reached via route 44 and is roughly 68 km (42 miles) north of Cairns and 56 km (35 miles) south of Daintree.

Located just north of Cairns, Port Douglas offers a sophisticated and low-key escape for travellers in an unpretentious and relaxed tropical environment. Shop in the boutique clothing stores, dine in the exquisite alfresco restaurants and enjoy the islands and coral cays of the nearby Great Barrier Reef. A visit to Four Mile Beach is essential where you can laze away the day on the pristine sand. Port Douglas is also a popular base from which to explore the rainforests of the Wet Tropics, Daintree and Cape Tribulation.

Day 7

Accommodation

Luxury Boutique Hotel - Port Douglas, Queensland

Room Type: Double / Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is between 2 PM and 8 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Traditional Daintree Dreaming Tour

Daintree National Park, Australia

This 9 hour tour will travel to Cooya Beach (Kuyu Kuyu) which is a traditional fishing ground of the Kuku Yalanji people. Join one of the Kubirri Warra brothers on their beach, mudflat and mangrove walks followed by an introduction to traditional fishing and gathering techniques with the aim of finding your own tucker (food). Visit Mossman Gorge where you will be welcomed with a traditional ‘smoking’ ceremony conducted by Aboriginal people which will protect you whilst visiting Kuku Yalanji country. Wander into the lush rainforest of the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park, Mossman Gorge and experience one of the world’s oldest and most beautiful rainforests. Enjoy an easy walk across boardwalks, tracks and bridges, view spectacular waterfalls and mountain ranges. Your guide will explain the rich flora, fauna and eco system of this amazing rainforest. You will return to Port Douglas, where you will be transferred to your accommodation.

Suggested Sightseeing

Daintree National Park, Australia

On the Map: Daintree National Park is located in far north Queensland and is reached via Route 44 from Cairns (to the southeast).

Covering a vast area of tropical rainforest in Far North Queensland, the Daintree National Park holds incredible biodiversity and high levels of plants and animals that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The Park was founded in 1981 as part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. While most might see Summer as the best time to visit this national park, the winter months actually offer a more steady climate, with less rain and no box jellyfish to get in your way. With numerous guided tours leaving from Cairns and Port Douglas, the park is quite easy to reach. If you are looking to explore the park on your own, make sure to hire a 4WD, as the roads north of Cape Tribulation are clay-based.

Day 8

Accommodation

Luxury Boutique Hotel - Port Douglas, Queensland

Room Type: Double / Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is between 2 PM and 8 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Outer Barrier Reef Eco Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure

Port Douglas, Queensland

Your full day adventure begins with an early departure from Port Douglas Marina. Sit back and relax on the beautiful yacht as you sail to the Coral Cays of Mackay or Undine Reefs. Enjoy an authentic sailing experience, following the coastline and views of the Daintree mountains. Once at the protected sites of the Coral Cays, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a guided snorkel tour with a qualified marine biologist. You can also enjoy a glass bottom boat coral viewing tour. Premium reef sites showcase abundant marine life, including encounters with turtles and an amazing display of giant clam gardens, breathtaking corals and a wide variety of fish. Soak up the sun, peace and tranquility of the turquoise waters. A tropical buffet lunch, morning and afternoon tea & coffee (supplied by local plantations) will complement a day of adventure and relaxation. Expert guides and 1st class services are all included from helpful, friendly crew.

Suggested Sightseeing

Port Douglas, Queensland

Day 9

Included Unique Activities

Transfer from Port Douglas to Cairns Airport

Port Douglas, Queensland

You will receive a transfer from your hotel in Port Douglas to Cairns Airport

Depart From

Depart from Cairns Airport, Australia

2025

Available Dates

Nov, Dec

From $4,513 per person

2026

Available Dates

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec

From $4,964 per person

Your Price Includes:

ACCOMMODATION

8 Nights in Superior 4-Star City Centre Hotels

TRANSPORTATION

Private Transfers to/from Airport to your Hotel
Private Transportation between activities included throughout

DINING OPTIONS INCLUDED (Inclusions)

Breakfast each morning after your stay
3 Lunches, & 2 Dinners Included

INCLUDED UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Take in the sights and enjoy morning tea or coffee on the morning cruise of Sydney harbour
Explore the iconic Sydney Opera House and bring to life the saga surrounding this modern masterpiece
Be thrilled by a guided journey to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, 134 metres above Sydney Harbour!
Journey into the heart of the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to enjoy lunch and magnificent views
With Uluru as your backdrop, enjoy canapés and sparkling wine while you view the critically acclaimed Field of Light art exhibition, an enourmous fantasy garden created from 50,000 spindles of light
Travel to a special location to enjoy a picnic breakfast as you watch the sun rise over Uluru, then visit Mutijulu Waterhole on the Kuniya Walk and hear stories of the local lore.
Journey to the mystical 36 domes of Kata Tjuta, and hear how they have evolved over millions of years
Full Day Daintree Dreaming Tour - Including interpretive rainforest walk, morning or afternoon tea, lunch, 2-hour Coastal Walk with Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours, & Welcome to Country Ceremony
Cruise to the Great Barrier Reef for either a guided snorkel tour with a qualified marine biologist offering reef interpretation, or coral touring via a glass bottom boat. A tropical buffet lunch, morning and afternoon
teas & coffee provided.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Sydney Harbor Bridge
The Rocks
Sydney Opera House
Darling Harbor
Uluru
Kata Tjuta
Port Douglas
Cairns
Daintree Rainforest
Outer Great Barrier Reef

Prices Based On:

Prices are Per Person based on 2 people traveling together and sharing a room.
All Taxes & Fees Included.

"Fantastic Vacation in Scotland"

Nov 3, 2025

Alison E.

Louisville

My clients just returned from Scotland and Ireland and had a fantastic vacation. I appreciate the fast responses and knowledge in creating custom itineraries and have confidence that everything will be perfect for my clients. I love working with Authentic Vacations!

"Mother & Son vacation to Ireland"

Oct 23, 2025

Monica H.

Lynnwood, WA

Lauren was a fantastic consultant to help me craft a great trip for my clients who were a mother and son duo who wanted to travel to Ireland. They loved Dublin and their hotel was top notch, well located and she had fun learning about the history of the hotel as well. Another highlight was the horse-and-carriage ride in Killarney.

"Amazing Ireland Guided Vacation"

Oct 21, 2025

Douglas K.

Minneapolis

The best part of our 8-day tour of Ireland? Tour director Joan.

Joan is a perfect blend of group director, logistics manager, guide, travel buddy and fun entertainer. Her knowledge is wide and her demeanor is lively, always full of sunshine (even if the weather is not). Joan clearly understands group dynamics with the ability to easily and subtly adjust an itinerary when warranted.

Each day of our tour included historical insight from Joan with her personal lore added for context, answers to every type of question with interesting explanations, and even an occasional folk song beautifully sung. When she granted us entry into the cathedral in Killarney - her home church and school when growing up - the experience became personal and moving.

I'm certain every member of our group of 17 wants to travel again with Joan because of her gracious and fun expertise. Thank you Joan and Authentic Vacations!

"Our confidence in Authentic Vacations is sky-high"

Oct 16, 2025

Steve P.

Acton, MA

We returned back from our Italy vacation last week and we just wanted to thank you for what you and your team at Authentic Vacations set up for us.

As in our previous trip with your company, EVERY single private transfer and tour was ready and waiting for us -- everything went without a hitch (excepting our flight to Italy which was delayed for 22 hours and cost us to lose a full day -- no fault of your company). The hotels were incredible; some of the largest rooms I've ever seen in Europe, and the service at each was precisely what one would want; doting without being intrusive. The LivTours excursions were mostly good. The guides were very knowledgeable and hospitable at each one. The only exception was the Colosseum tour in Rome, where we felt we didn't get a tour that was commensurate with the cost (it only took us to the Colosseum floor and was only about 90 min. long -- not the 3 hour tour we expected).

However, that one criticism certainly doesn't diminish the fact that we enjoyed the trip of a lifetime. We met our last remaining Italian cousins in Ascoli Piceno, who brought us up in the mountains to the village where my grandfather was born, a day we shall never forget.

There was one destination that totally surprised us; the little city in Marche called Ascoli Piceno. This is the largest city near my Grandfather's village of Pretare, about 15 miles inland from the Adriatic coast. You found a hotel for us there called the Palazzo dei Mercanti, which was built in the 1400s and was redeveloped about 15 years ago as an upscale hotel. The hotel and its staff were marvelous (even calling our cousins for us, who speak only Italian), with modern amenities in a building with ancient ambience. But the real charm here is the city itself. Ascoli has a piazza, the Piazza del Popolo, which is almost completely untouched by the modern world. It has all the charm of Florence without the crowds. If one wants to enjoy Old Italy and they're on the East coast of Italy, this is a must see.

After two trips with you, our confidence in Authentic Vacations is sky-high. Every little detail is done, and we're able to enjoy our trip without worry. From the tickets for the excursions right down to the chocolates on the pillows at night, you provide a complete service for your customers. Please pass along our thanks to the group you have in Italy, as I know they played a large part in making the arrangements. They were even able to switch our tour of Pompeii/Mt. Vesuvius to a different day when our plane arrived a day late! And Jen, our agent, was very helpful in giving us the information we needed to make the claim with our travel insurance. You folks are the best!

"Best vacation my clients had ever taken!"

Sep 18, 2025

Phyllis M.

Oregon

I am a travel advisor and recently sent two couples on the 8 night Enchanted Ireland revealed trip. Both couples came back raving about how much they loved this trip. They thought their guide Joan was fabulous and loved the driver Damian. Both couples said it was one of the best vacations they had ever taken! Thanks Authentic Vacations! I love happy clients!

"Wonderful 30th Anniversary Trip"

Sep 1, 2025

Steve M.

Lititz, PA, USA

We had the trip of a lifetime to Ireland (the Enchanted Ireland trip). It was an incredible small-group tour, and Joan our guide is knowledgeable, fun, and kept us on a good schedule without being rigid. As a native of Killarney, Joan shared stories, sang us songs, and truly provided a customized experience that we could not have gotten with a large group tour in a coach.

So thankful that we made this investment and trusted our trip to Authentic Vacations!

"Amazing Small Guided Vacation in Ireland"

Aug 26, 2025

Debra B.

Michigan

We were going to go with a big tour but we were told about Authentic Vacations and boy are we glad we changed our minds!

This wonderful trip went beyond our expectations. Joan made us feel so welcomed and we not only saw so many incredible places, she made sure we were informed as well. We are looking forward to going back to Ireland and hopefully Joan is our guide.

"Wonderful time in Ireland"

Aug 25, 2025

Larry B.

Michigan

Wonderful time in Ireland, with Joan as our guide it was such a great time. She is such a wonderful person, her great stories and knowledge of everything was incredible.

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With offices in Scottsdale, San Francisco, London, Dublin, Copenhagen and Edinburgh, we can offer you unrivaled support while you are abroad. We truly believe all our clients deserve an extraordinary, authentic experience!

Included Unique Activities

Accommodations

Transportation and Guides

Points of Interest

UNESCO World Heritage sites

Dining Options Included (inclusions)

Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney, New South Wales

Uluru, Northern Territory

Uluru, Northern Territory

Port Douglas, Queensland

Port Douglas, Queensland

Port Douglas, Queensland

Depart

<img src="/wp-content/themes/authentic_ireland/assets/img/ico/location_pins/ico-pin-1.png" alt="Day 1 Pin" width="25" height="32" /> Day 1

Accommodation

4-Star Harbor View Hotel - Sydney, New South Wales

Included Unique Activities

Sydney Airport Private Transfer

Suggested Sightseeing

George Street, Australia

Chinatown, Australia

Darling Harbour, Australia

Arrive at

Arrive at Sydney Airport, Australia

Overnight Location

Sydney, New South Wales

<img src="/wp-content/themes/authentic_ireland/assets/img/ico/location_pins/ico-pin-2.png" alt="Day 2 Pin" width="25" height="32" /> Day 2

Accommodation

4-Star Harbor View Hotel - Sydney, New South Wales

Included Unique Activities

Morning Tea Cruise on Sydney Harbor

Early Twilight BridgeClimb

Sydney Opera House Tour

Suggested Sightseeing

Sydney, New South Wales

<img src="/wp-content/themes/authentic_ireland/assets/img/ico/location_pins/ico-pin-3.png" alt="Day 3 Pin" width="25" height="32" /> Day 3

Accommodation

4-Star Harbor View Hotel - Sydney, New South Wales

Included Unique Activities

Luxury Blue Mountains Day Trip

Suggested Sightseeing

Blue Mountains National Park, Australia

<img src="/wp-content/themes/authentic_ireland/assets/img/ico/location_pins/ico-pin-4.png" alt="Day 4 Pin" width="25" height="32" /> Day 4

Accommodation

Magnificent View Hotel - Uluru, Northern Territory

Included Unique Activities

Sydney Airport Private Transfer

Transfer from Ayers Rock Airport to Hotel

A Night at Field of Light

Overnight Location

Uluru, Northern Territory

<img src="/wp-content/themes/authentic_ireland/assets/img/ico/location_pins/ico-pin-5.png" alt="Day 5 Pin" width="25" height="32" /> Day 5

Accommodation

Magnificent View Hotel - Uluru, Northern Territory

Included Unique Activities

Afternoon Kata Tjuta Domes Tour

Morning Uluru Highlights Tour

<img src="/wp-content/themes/authentic_ireland/assets/img/ico/location_pins/ico-pin-6.png" alt="Day 6 Pin" width="25" height="32" /> Day 6

Accommodation

Luxury Boutique Hotel - Port Douglas, Queensland

Included Unique Activities

Transfer from Hotel to Ayers Rock Airport

Cairns Airport Transfer

Overnight Location

Port Douglas, Queensland

<img src="/wp-content/themes/authentic_ireland/assets/img/ico/location_pins/ico-pin-7.png" alt="Day 7 Pin" width="25" height="32" /> Day 7

Accommodation

Luxury Boutique Hotel - Port Douglas, Queensland

Included Unique Activities

Traditional Daintree Dreaming Tour

Suggested Sightseeing

Daintree National Park, Australia

<img src="/wp-content/themes/authentic_ireland/assets/img/ico/location_pins/ico-pin-8.png" alt="Day 8 Pin" width="25" height="32" /> Day 8

Accommodation

Luxury Boutique Hotel - Port Douglas, Queensland

Included Unique Activities

Outer Barrier Reef Eco Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure

Suggested Sightseeing

Day 1

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Day 8

Day 9