Globus Spotlights Small Group Tours as Travellers Seek Personalization

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. 

In other words, travellers are thinking smaller and discovering more because of it. 

Globus says it is meeting the demand by expanding its Small Group Discovery tours, designed from the ground up for deeper local access and authentic encounters. For 2026, the global tour operator 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 visits to family-run farms and artisan workshops to hidden neighbourhood taverns and exclusive cultural experiences.

“Travellers are realizing that tours are a leap forward from DIY,” said Steve Born, chief marketing officer with the Globus family of brands. 

“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.”

Top Small Group Discovery Tours for 2026 

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. 

NEW Ireland Unveiled: Beyond the Blarney (10 days). This new itinerary 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). 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).  In Japan, smaller groups unlock immersive cultural encounters that bring centuries of tradition to life. Guests 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.

“With fewer travellers, the doors open wider,” added Born. “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.”