Small Group Tours for Women to Europe & Beyond
Join 6 like-minded women for intimate cultural journeys led by a Switzerland native who speaks French and German. Authentic experiences, comfortable pace, expert local guidance.
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Born and raised in Geneva, I grew up speaking French. At twenty, I moved to Frankfurt to learn German — beginning a lifelong immersion in language and culture.
In my mid-twenties, curiosity carried me far from home. I backpacked solo through East Asia and East Africa, drawn to places that challenged my assumptions and expanded my sense of what was possible.
Over the next 30 years I continued traveling — often with my husband and children, and just as often on my own — learning that meaningful travel doesn't have to be rushed or extreme to be transformative.
During COVID, I earned a degree in anthropology, giving academic structure to decades of lived experience. I'm also the author of The Immigrant's Table: Women's Stories and Recipes (2020). An updated edition is forthcoming.
Today, I design small-group journeys for women 50+ to destinations across Europe and beyond — grounded in cultural insight, language, and local perspective.
Traveling with Céliane has been one of the greatest joys of my life. We enjoyed unique experiences that would never have been possible on a large tour. I treasure the memories from every trip and am deeply grateful for the laughter, learning, and unforgettable moments we shared.
Céliane is great at arranging the balance of activity and rest. Every activity was thoughtful and well-planned. Even when plans changed, she kept her cool and we were able to adjust with no stress. Should the opportunity present itself again, I am all in!
Céliane's knowledge of the cities, culture and history were phenomenal! I will definitely be traveling again with The Blue Backpack.
She keeps her groups small, which allows you to get to know the other people in your group and gives the tour a more personal touch. She includes places you probably won't find in the tourist books. I've been to France, Ecuador, and Switzerland, and never been disappointed.
I have been on 3 different adventures with Céliane — Paris/Lyon, Ecuador, and Switzerland. Each trip was carefully planned and all details managed by Céliane. Really, all I had to do was show up and enjoy myself! I love how she integrates culture and adventure. She is also very good at evaluating her group's interests and abilities and is able to make adjustments as needed. If it wasn't for Céliane and The Blue Backpack, I would have missed out on these wonderful, memorable, unique experiences.
Every tour combines outdoor adventures with cultural immersion — the perfect balance.
A reasonable daily rhythm with free time to rest, explore independently, or simply reflect.
Comfortable, well-located hotels that enhance your experience. Private rooms throughout.
Authentic dining experiences — from local markets to family-run restaurants. Culinary culture is part of every journey.
Just 6 women per tour — intimate enough to connect, small enough to be flexible.
Cultural context, language support, and insider knowledge that transforms sightseeing into understanding.
Small group cultural journeys — spaces are limited to 6 women.
Two linguistic regions, alpine wellness, Christmas markets, and authentic Swiss culture.
View Itinerary →From Milan's fashion ateliers and Leonardo's masterpiece, to Turin's chocolate houses, to a sun-drenched afternoon on Lake Como.
View Itinerary →Three regions, three languages, three wine cultures.
View Itinerary → Book Now →Milan, Turin, and Lake Como in the golden light of autumn. Immersive, unhurried, and deeply local.
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Have questions about an upcoming tour? I'd love to hear from you. Limited spots available for each journey — don't hesitate to reach out.