There’s something magical about the moment I start planning my next getaway… suddenly the world feels a little bigger, a little brighter, and full of possibility. Today is National Plan For Vacation Day, so pause, look ahead, and dream up the adventures that will fill your year with wonder.
Planning a vacation isn’t just about logistics – it’s about creating something to look forward to, like reconnecting with yourself and your loved ones, and making memories that last. Consider this your gentle nudge to put those plans on the calendar and turn your travel daydreams into unforgettable memories.
Having traveled with Adventures by Disney and National Geographic Expeditions, I’ve seen how Adventure Guides and National Geographic Expedition Experts can transform your trip into something truly unforgettable. Here are a few options to help you begin your next adventure.
For the Adventurous Family
Ready to vacation together? Trips with Adventures by Disney and National Geographic Family Journeys are packed with fun activities and memorable moments for every member of the family.
Italy: Rome, Tuscany & Venice
(Adventures by Disney)
Experience world-class service as Adventure Guides handle every detail – from transportation and accommodations to special activities for “Junior Adventurers.” Visit Italy’s iconic landmarks with immersive, family‑friendly experiences.
Stroll the Colosseum, marvel at Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, roll up your sleeves for pasta‑making at a Tuscan farm, and glide along the canals on a private gondola ride in Venice.
Trip Highlight
- A privately guided tour before opening hours of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel – a rare, crowd‑free look at Michelangelo’s masterpiece.
Southeast Asia
(National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures)
Explore the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia on this vibrant trip that brings the culture of Southeast Asia to life at every turn.
From the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh to the ruins of Angkor in Siem Reap, each day blends meaningful cultural immersion with fun, interactive experiences ideal for curious families.
Trip Highlight
- Watching the sunrise over the ancient Angkor temple complex, one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, with insight from an expert guide.
For the Animal Lover
If you’re happiest spotting wildlife and seeking out nature’s most incredible creatures in their natural habitats, these adventures are for you.
Exploring Galápagos
(National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions)
Sail through the Galápagos Islands with expert naturalists, encountering charismatic sea lions, playful penguins, and marine iguanas in one of the world’s most pristine ecosystems.
Trip Highlight
- Meeting conservationists and learning about rare giant tortoises during a private visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station.
South Africa
(Adventures by Disney)
Experience the magic of the wild up close as you set out on an unforgettable adventure across South Africa.
Learn about the unique culture and rich history of this beautiful country before encountering elephants, lions, and rhinos during daytime and evening safaris. You’ll even get a chance to visit the charming African penguins at Boulders Beach in Cape Town.
Trip Highlight
- Spotting the “Big Five” on a private safari drive in Kapama Game Reserve, guided by local wildlife experts.
For the Disney Fan
Dreaming of more magic, imagination, and a little behind-the-scenes pixie dust? These itineraries are packed with Disney inspiration.
Disneyland Resort and Southern California
(Adventures by Disney)
Discover the origins of Walt Disney’s first theme park and uncover its rich history with exclusive, behind-the-scenes experiences at Disneyland as well as private tours of The Walt Disney Studios, The Walt Disney Archives Reading Room, and Walt Disney Imagineering, where Disney’s creativity and tradition truly shine.
Trip Highlight
- Enjoying an exclusive visit to Walt Disney’s private apartment above the Main Street Firehouse – a rarely seen piece of Disney history.
Switzerland
(Adventures by Disney)
Experience one of Walt and Lillian Disney’s favorite vacation destinations, and the sites that inspired many of Walt’s creations, like the majestic Matterhorn (the inspiration for Disneyland’s famed Matterhorn Bobsleds attraction).
Trip Highlight
- Experiencing a privately guided tour of the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, featuring memorabilia that helped inspire Disney Pin Trading.
For the Foodie
If you travel with your taste buds, these culinary journeys serve up unforgettable flavors and hands-on experiences.
Rhône River Cruise: Lyon & Provence
(Adventures by Disney)
Delight in French specialties, sample regional wines in local vineyards, and enjoy a hands-on chocolate activity in cities renowned for their culinary traditions across southern France.
Trip Highlight
- Sampling French delicacies at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, the renowned Lyon market that inspired the creation of Disney Pixar’s Ratatouille.
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast and Montenegro
(National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions)
Enjoy Croatia’s breathtaking scenery and beautiful coast as you savor fresh local dishes, join interactive cooking classes, and taste wines specially chosen by the executive wine editor of Food & Wine magazine.
Trip Highlight
- I sailed on this itinerary last summer, and the remarkable dining experiences were the absolute highlights of the trip – with local wine tastings, distinctive flavors, and regional specialties at every stop.
For the History Buff
If ancient ruins, legendary landmarks, and stories of the past spark your curiosity, you’ll love these journeys through time.
Human History: Northern Spain & Southwest France
(National Geographic Expeditions)
Step back in time as you explore prehistoric caves, medieval villages, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, guided by archaeologists and historians.
Trip Highlight
- Seeing the most complete recreation of the original Lascaux cave system with a National Geographic expert and learning about Paleolithic art.
Greece: Mythology of Athens, Peloponnese & Rhodes
(Adventures by Disney)
Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Greeks as you explore the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the ancient citadel of Mycenae, and the medieval streets of Rhodes while enjoying hands-on activities that bring each monument to life.
Trip Highlight
- Kayaking and snorkeling above the submerged ruins of an ancient archaeological site in Epidaurus.
For the Nature Enthusiast
Love wide-open spaces, scenic trails, and the thrill of the great outdoors? These trips put you right in the heart of nature’s wonders.
Arizona & Utah
(Adventures by Disney)
Explore the awe-inspiring landscapes of the south rim of the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Monument Valley, and Arches National Park, with guided hikes and immersive storytelling.
Trip Highlight
- Experiencing a Navajo-guided tour of Monument Valley, including a traditional Navajo cookout dinner and storytelling under the stars.
Voyage to Antarctica
(National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions)
Journey to the ends of the earth to witness penguin colonies, dramatic icebergs, and expansive wilderness, all while participating in hands-on science and conservation activities.
Trip Highlight
- Capturing the perfect photo of towering icebergs, seals, blue-eyed shags, and penguins aboard a Zodiac through remote islands rarely visited by travelers.
For the Solo Explorer
Craving a journey all your own? National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures is perfect for independent spirits ready to discover the world solo.
Iconic Japan
(National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures)
Immerse yourself in the traditions and modern marvels of Japan on this enriching adventure.
Wander through the serene gardens and temples of Kyoto, experience the vibrant energy of Tokyo and learn the art of sushi making from local chefs.
Trip Highlight
- A guided visit to Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its iconic red torii gates, followed by a traditional tea ceremony led by a local expert.
Explore Machu Picchu
(National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures)
Step into the heart of the Andes on this unforgettable journey through Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. Explore vibrant markets, visit ancient Inca sites, and learn about Peru’s rich cultural heritage from knowledgeable guides.
Trip Highlight
- Experiencing an exclusive tour of “Parque de la Papa” (“Potato Park”), a network of rural agricultural communities in Peru’s Sacred Valley that’s working to preserve varieties of native potatoes in local communities.
For The Weekend Wanderer
Looking for a quick getaway packed with adventure? An Adventures by Disney Escape is the perfect option for travelers who want to make the most of a quick retreat.
London Escape
(Adventures by Disney)
Make the most of a quick getaway with this three-day adventure in London, packed with exclusive Disney touches.
Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, like St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London, and get a panoramic view of the city in true secret-agent style on a high-speed boat ride down the River Thames.
Trip Highlight
- A private viewing of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London – an unforgettable glimpse of English royal history.
Disneyland Resort and Southern California Escape
(Adventures by Disney)
Perfect for a shorter vacation and a true Disney fan, get an exclusive peek behind the curtain at Disneyland Resort in only four days.
Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences like private tours of The Walt Disney Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering, all designed to immerse you in Disney’s creative legacy during a condensed stay.
Trip Highlight
- A private, behind-the-scenes tour of The Walt Disney Studios, including an exclusive visit to the Disney Archives Reading Room – an area rarely open to the public.
Ready to travel this year with a spirit of adventure? Visit AdventuresbyDisney.com, NationalGeographicExpeditions.com, or contact your travel agent to start planning today.
