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Collette vs Tauck
Compare the travel styles, pricing, destinations and popularity of Collette and Tauck.The Low Down
While new to the Australian market in 2017, Collette have actually been operating since 1918. Offering coach touring and small group explorations around the world, you won't find too many Aussies and Kiwis on their trips yet, but clients of ours that haven taken the plunge over the last season have come back with very positive reviews. Collette is very popular in the US and now has offices and support in Australia, Canada and the UK too. Collette market their trips as 4 star accommodation with 5 star service and inclusions - so if that sounds like your cup of tea, then how about this - Collette also includes a roundtrip home to airport chauffeur service for those within a 40km radius of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Darwin, Cairns and Hobart airports.
New to the Australian market in 2017, Tauck began operations in the US over 90 years ago. Offering premium river cruises, land tours, small ship cruises, family adventures and small group journeys around the world. You won't find too many Aussies and Kiwis on their trips yet, as they have only recently opened an office Downunder, but Tauck are renowned for the quality and inclusiveness of their trips, whether they are on land or water. Stats
No. of Trips
187
No. of Departures
6,252
Avg. Trip Length
11 Days
Avg. Price Per Day
$462
Accommodation
4 Star
Budget
Premium
No. of Trips
208
No. of Departures
3,482
Avg. Trip Length
11 Days
Avg. Price Per Day
$855
Accommodation
4.5 - 5 Star
Budget
Premium & Luxury
In Their Own Words
We asked the travel companies themselves why you should travel with them
At Collette, we consider everyone who travels with us to be our personal guest. Every moment matters to us because we know it matters to you. This may be because at heart we are a family owned company that has been in business for 100 years. It may be because our team are passionate about sharing their own love of travel and uncovering mysteries.
Choosing Collette comes with benefits that take your guided travel experience to another level. Our inclusive tours provide you more value for your money and more of what makes travel special. Let us show you the world!
We believe that when you travel, you should never settle for ordinary. You deserve to travel in good company, with someone who cares. We believe that good value sells itself – you should get what you pay for, and then some, in one upfront price with virtually everything included. Leave your worries at home; we take on all the planning, all the logistics. To you, it’s peace of mind travel, to us, it’s 90+ years of integrity.
Wherever we travel, we’re all about taking you to explore the world’s treasures….discover people and cultures you may not have known existed…and experience extraordinary, life-changing moments. Since 1925, we’ve built our company on the personal referrals and recommendations of our guests. We can think of no higher testament to our journeys and commitment to customer satisfaction – and no better way to tell you what we do than through their words.
Recent Reviews
4.6
My grandma & I recently completed Collette's Spotlight on Tuscany tour with the pre-extension tour in Rome and had a fantastic experience from start to finish. The itinerary was very well organised and provided a perfect balance of guided activities and free time to explore at our own pace. The accommodation was comfortable and centrally located, making read more day trips throughout Tuscany very convenient. Our tour guide Luca was amazing and always went the extra mile to make the trip even more enjoyable.
Collette Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains tour 0
Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains
Nida and Dante, NSW, Australia, Apr 2026
We recently had the pleasure of joining Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains Tours, and it was nothing short of exceptional from start to finish. The entire experience felt thoughtfully designed, balancing breathtaking natural beauty with comfort and seamless organization. The alpine lake destinations were truly stunning—crystal-clear waters surrounded by read more dramatic mountain landscapes that looked almost unreal. Each stop was timed perfectly, allowing enough time to explore, take photos, or simply sit and appreciate the peaceful surroundings without feeling rushed.
The scenic train journeys were a highlight in themselves. Traveling through winding valleys, across historic bridges, and past panoramic vistas offered a unique perspective you simply can’t get by road. The trains were clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destinations.
What stood out most was the professionalism and warmth of our tour guide Armando. He was knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about the regions we visited. His insights added depth to the experience, sharing stories and local history that made each location even more meaningful.
Logistics were handled flawlessly—transport connections, timing, and best accommodations all ran smoothly, which made the trip feel effortless and relaxing. It’s clear that a lot of care goes into planning these tours. Big thank you to the best driver, Diego and tour director Armando Disanto.
We would highly recommend Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains Tours to anyone looking for a well-curated, memorable travel experience. It’s an ideal blend of nature, comfort, and discovery.
And to Global Journeys, Tracey who assisted us from the beginning until the end of our booking. She made everything hassle free and stress free. Thank you so much Tracey for your help. We would gladly book with them again.
The scenic train journeys were a highlight in themselves. Traveling through winding valleys, across historic bridges, and past panoramic vistas offered a unique perspective you simply can’t get by road. The trains were clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destinations.
What stood out most was the professionalism and warmth of our tour guide Armando. He was knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about the regions we visited. His insights added depth to the experience, sharing stories and local history that made each location even more meaningful.
Logistics were handled flawlessly—transport connections, timing, and best accommodations all ran smoothly, which made the trip feel effortless and relaxing. It’s clear that a lot of care goes into planning these tours. Big thank you to the best driver, Diego and tour director Armando Disanto.
We would highly recommend Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains Tours to anyone looking for a well-curated, memorable travel experience. It’s an ideal blend of nature, comfort, and discovery.
And to Global Journeys, Tracey who assisted us from the beginning until the end of our booking. She made everything hassle free and stress free. Thank you so much Tracey for your help. We would gladly book with them again.
Wonderful tour of Rome and Amalfi Coast 0
Rome & Amalfi Coast
Ferdi and Virginia, NSW, Australia, Mar 2026
It was great to be back in historic Rome, especially exploring with a group. Our local guides were knowledgeable and the hotel's central location made it easy for us to see the city's major landmarks. The transition to Amalfi Coast was seamless with well organised excursions. We enjoyed the stunning coastal views. We stayed in Vietri sul Mare, a quieter read more base with beautiful scenery, though we would have preferred Salerno for more activity and easier access to restaurants and transport.
The extension to Naples was an eye-opener. We were glad to experience its organised chaos. We were surprised the group wasn't taken to Piazza del Plebiscito, which we discovered on our own.
Our tour manager Giorgio kept everything running smoothly and our driver Luigi ensured we were taken to our tour destinations safe and on time. Our group of 31, all from the States and who mostly knew each other, with just the two of us from Australia, was warm and friendly making the experience even more enjoyable.
Also have to highlight the help from Tracey Standing, who assisted us in reinstating the tour in time after we had cancelled due to uncertainty in our flights via Abu Dhabi. We're glad we made it to this trip.
The extension to Naples was an eye-opener. We were glad to experience its organised chaos. We were surprised the group wasn't taken to Piazza del Plebiscito, which we discovered on our own.
Our tour manager Giorgio kept everything running smoothly and our driver Luigi ensured we were taken to our tour destinations safe and on time. Our group of 31, all from the States and who mostly knew each other, with just the two of us from Australia, was warm and friendly making the experience even more enjoyable.
Also have to highlight the help from Tracey Standing, who assisted us in reinstating the tour in time after we had cancelled due to uncertainty in our flights via Abu Dhabi. We're glad we made it to this trip.
The trip was well organized with a variety of attractions and activities, supplemented by stories and anecdotes shared by the guide. Accommodations were comfortable and stylish. Also kudos to the consideration and flexibility of our guide. Due to weather event, we changed our arrival schedules a few times and ended up arriving one day late. Our guide read more has been very patient and helped us make alternative arrangements.
The hotels we stayed in were excellent, with some of them being absolutely luxurious. The tour guides were extremely knowledgeable about their Country. But the highlight was the Holy Land & Petra in Jordan & the Pyramids, the Sphinx & the Temples in Egypt, there are no words. To stand before these historical monuments & gaze in awe at such unbelievable read more feats of engineering. A must see.
Well led tour by our trusty tour guide Jonathan Mueller 0
Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana
Leone, NSW, Australia, Nov 2025
We felt very safe and well managed on our trip to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana. Our only disappointment was the lack of animals, in particular in Pilanesburg N Park. Having 5 safaris there was too many for such a poorly maintained road system. We all struggled with how rough the tracks were and the lack of animal sightings didn't help. The lodge read more was also not to our taste - too snooty. The Wallow Lodge and Chobi lodge were much better for our tastes. I will go back and do at least one more safari trip but will research the parks being offered in much greater detail before committing.
4.7
Beautiful, safe Colombia 0
Colombia: South America's Eternal Spring
Loyal Global Journey Travellers, NT, Australia, Jan 2026
Well organised, informative and a very safe trip to Colombia. Travelling with Tauck is a luxurious experience. The travel itinerary was interesting and varied, hotels were good quality, transportation was well organised and comfy and the food was plentiful (lots of quality three course meals included). Key highlights included a private tour of Boltero read more museum in Bogotá guided by Botero’s grandson, Colombian Paso Fino horse experience at Normandia Equestrian Center in Medellín, staying at the beautiful Sofitel Legend Santa Clara hotel in Cartagena and an impromptu salsa class in Cartagena. The local guides generously shared their knowledge along the way and were instrumental in facilitating efficient check in for internal airline flights. Highly recommended trip for those wanting to go beyond traditional places especially as tourism in Colombia continues to grow. Beautiful country, beautiful people.
Tip: If booking airline flights through Global Journeys, ask for each passenger to have their own individual travel reservation number. Due to airline system upgrades, Colombian/ Panamanian airlines at international airports do not appear to recognise multiple passengers booked under the same travel reservation number (you’ll be stuck at the airline check in counter for an additional 2 hours for each flight you take).
Tip: If booking airline flights through Global Journeys, ask for each passenger to have their own individual travel reservation number. Due to airline system upgrades, Colombian/ Panamanian airlines at international airports do not appear to recognise multiple passengers booked under the same travel reservation number (you’ll be stuck at the airline check in counter for an additional 2 hours for each flight you take).
Spirit of the Desert with Tauck 22
Spirit of the Desert: The National Parks of the Southwest
Janet and Alfred , CA, United States, May 2025
Just a bare glimpse (see our photo) of our amazing Tauck journey “The Spirit of the Desert”. It was fabulous!!! Colorado River, Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce at sunrise (2 of those), Zion, and the clouds lifting over the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Thank you, a million times over! It was wonderful! I hope you have the opportunity to do it. Happy trails.
Warsaw, Budapest, Vienna and Prague 4
Warsaw, Budapest, Vienna & Prague
Sugie and George, Korea, May 2023
The poor weather (rain, cold and wind) was a distraction throughout the tour which, unfortunately, had a negative effect on many of the venues. It made the tour guides jobs particularly difficult. Not Tauck's problem but, nonetheless, it was unfortunate as it negatively impacted the tour. When we booked this tour, we compared it to another Tauck Eastern read more European tour referred to as a Jewish Heritage Tour. As we are are not of Jewish faith, we felt that this tour would not be meaningful to us. In hindsight, we are not sure that the tour we chose would have been much different from the Jewish Heritage Tour. Most of the members in our tour group were in fact Jewish and the focus of the tour definitely was on the Jewish faith and the Holocaust. I would like to suggest that Tauck make more of an effort to differentiate between these two tours. There is much to consider in an Eastern European tour that does not focus so highly on the Jewish heritage.
On a very positive note, the local tour guides were excellent, very knowledgeable, courteous and friendly. Our Tauck Tour Guide was also excellent with extensive experience in Eastern Europe. One final negative comment, unfortunately. Even though we realize that Tauck does not make hotel room assignments, we feel that they can do a much better job of influencing the hotels on our stay to provide rooms that are more comparable to the cost of our tour. We have not once during our Tauck tours been assigned a hotel room with a view of anything but rooftops of adjacent buildings or a view of another section of the hotel itself. That's not what we feel we deserve for the money we pay for these tours. On a closing note, we are booked on our next Tauck tour to Portugal in October and plan to book a follow-on Tauck tour to New Zealand on 2024.
On a very positive note, the local tour guides were excellent, very knowledgeable, courteous and friendly. Our Tauck Tour Guide was also excellent with extensive experience in Eastern Europe. One final negative comment, unfortunately. Even though we realize that Tauck does not make hotel room assignments, we feel that they can do a much better job of influencing the hotels on our stay to provide rooms that are more comparable to the cost of our tour. We have not once during our Tauck tours been assigned a hotel room with a view of anything but rooftops of adjacent buildings or a view of another section of the hotel itself. That's not what we feel we deserve for the money we pay for these tours. On a closing note, we are booked on our next Tauck tour to Portugal in October and plan to book a follow-on Tauck tour to New Zealand on 2024.
Denali was spectacular and thoroughly enjoyed the plane ride up over Denali. The trip into the park was also great and we did see some bears and Dall sheep way off into the distance. The Lodges were all Princess Lodges and were very crowded. Quite a number of us caught COVID so didn't make the cruise which was very disappointing but enjoyed what we did see.
Tauck Capital Cities Plus Niagara Falls 4
Canada's Capital Cities plus Niagara Falls
Veronica, NSW, Australia, Aug 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this tour. We had a great Tour Director and everything was well organised. She gave very informative information on the places we were visiting and had a great sense of humour. The accommodations were fabulous and there was a great group of people on the tour.
Overall, a wonderful experience. We must start with kudos to both Jemma and Hannah for all the support, help and advice you gave us throughout the booking process. Yes, we will book with you again and are now looking at Tauck tours to Australia, New Zealand and or Tasmania in 2023.
Our tour to Ireland was number one on our Bucket List and we were read more not disappointed. Vincent, our tour guide was a treasure of information on Ireland's history and overall knowledge of the political, economic and societal struggles that have plagued Ireland's history. Also, his knowledge of each of the sites we visited on tour was extraordinary. He truly deserves to be a "Keeper" for Tauck.
There are, however, two recommendations for consideration that would change our overall rating to five stars instead of four. First, the Westin Dublin was not what we expected of our accommodations. It was below the standard of other Westin hotels we have used over the years. Unfortunately, we had complaints that we registered with our tour guide and the hotel management. Compared with all other hotels we stayed in during our tour, the Westin was at the very bottom.
Secondly, the amount of time we spent on the limousine bus was excessive. We covered a huge amount of The Republic of Ireland's and Northern Ireland's geography and transit times to each destination were often at times too long. Due to the necessity to keep on track with our itinerary, we felt that the amount of time we were allotted at some of our stops was minimized. Again, a wonderful experience that took Bill back to his Irish roots!
Our tour to Ireland was number one on our Bucket List and we were read more not disappointed. Vincent, our tour guide was a treasure of information on Ireland's history and overall knowledge of the political, economic and societal struggles that have plagued Ireland's history. Also, his knowledge of each of the sites we visited on tour was extraordinary. He truly deserves to be a "Keeper" for Tauck.
There are, however, two recommendations for consideration that would change our overall rating to five stars instead of four. First, the Westin Dublin was not what we expected of our accommodations. It was below the standard of other Westin hotels we have used over the years. Unfortunately, we had complaints that we registered with our tour guide and the hotel management. Compared with all other hotels we stayed in during our tour, the Westin was at the very bottom.
Secondly, the amount of time we spent on the limousine bus was excessive. We covered a huge amount of The Republic of Ireland's and Northern Ireland's geography and transit times to each destination were often at times too long. Due to the necessity to keep on track with our itinerary, we felt that the amount of time we were allotted at some of our stops was minimized. Again, a wonderful experience that took Bill back to his Irish roots!
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