Bucket list experiences for 2025

To help you make a good dent in your list, we’ve carefully crafted our itineraries to offer you unbelievable experiences in extraordinary destinations. What’s more, some of our holidays will even have you ticking off several bucket list items in one trip!

So, take out your list and start adding these unmissable experiences...

Whale and dolphin watching

For the wildlife enthusiasts, nothing quite compares to seeing a breaching whale in the wild or a pod of dolphins playfully riding the bow of your vessel. Our Atlantic Islands collection covers both Madeira and the Azores - two destinations renowned for their excellent cetacean spotting records and you even have the chance to swim alongside the wild dolphins! In Iceland, the natural wonders on land are breathtaking but nature also prevails out at sea with many different whale watching opportunities around the waters of this stunning country.

View our holidays to the Azores and Madeira here.

View our holidays to Iceland here.

Small-ship cruise

For a unique look into some exceptional destinations, a small-ship cruise takes you on an exclusive journey away from the crowds. In Croatia, you can experience some of the idyllic islands dotted around the blue waters of the Adriatic whereas, in Iceland and Greenland, you’ll get an unforgettable insight into the stunning natural wonders found in both countries.

View our small-ship cruise holidays here.

Photography

For some, taking your camera on holiday goes far beyond capturing those unbelievable experiences as it is also a chance to hone your photography skills and bring the spirit of a location alive. So, whether you want to explore Gozo alongside professional photographer Pete Bullen or you’d prefer a more independent approach and fancy travelling to the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, this is your chance to create a stunning souvenir of your bucket list holiday.

View our photography holidays here.

Land-based summer experiences

Here at Artisan Travel, we believe it isn’t enough to simply witness an extraordinary destination - instead, we think the best way is to experience it through memorable activities. Hiking, cycling, climbing and abseiling your way around volcanic terrain or picturesque islands will help you push comfort zones and really connect with these wonderful locations.

View our summer activity holidays here.

In the water 

As well as land-based experiences, many of our destinations also feature some spectacular coastlines and dazzling bodies of water that simply must be explored. There are plenty of bucket list ways to get out on the water - from diving in some world-renowned spots in Gozo, snorkelling with dolphins in Madeira or kayaking across volcanic crater lakes in the Azores.

View our summer activity holidays here.  

Image credit: Matt Robinson, Futurismo Azores Adventure, Huck Finn Adventure Travel, Pete Bullen, Neotropic Expeditions, Graeme Richardson