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The grand tour was a popular travel trend in the 17th-19th centuries for wealthy young men to visit historical, cultural, and political sites across Europe. It has since evolved into modern-day adventures for men and women to explore the world. The tour traditionally started in London and included stops in Paris, Florence, and Venice. Many kept diaries and invested in works of art. The tradition has evolved into a gap year for students to travel the world.
During the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries rich young men often made what was called the grand tour. These travelers from upper-class families set out on a grand adventure, visiting some of the world’s most famous cities over a period that varied from several months to several years. During the grand tour, these men would visit places of historical, cultural or political significance. This experience was designed to expose wealthy young people to the world and provide them with a broad education, while also serving as a form of entertainment. The grand tour has since evolved into modern day adventures that allow men and women to explore the world without the need for a significant financial investment.
During the 17th century, the concept of the grand tour was largely confined to young Britons, who would hire a coach and travel across the continent. Many relied on an experienced guide to help them find their way, and those who could afford it could even bring along a team of servants. As the popularity of this trend grew, men from other parts of Europe began to take part in it. In the 17th century, men from North and South America also set off on their grand tours. The widespread availability of trains and steamers during the 19th century helped make travel more accessible, allowing even more people to participate in this travel tradition.
The grand tour traditionally started in London and took men across Britain before heading to other European cities. Paris, Florence and Venice were key stops, although other cities and capitals were also included, depending on the individual. Men have taken this time to learn other languages, visit cultural and historical sites, and see famous works of art and architecture. Many also spent their time investing in one-of-a-kind works of art from other possessions, which they could then take home to impress friends.
Many men who went on a big tour kept a diary, which they could then publish when they got home. One of the earliest was written by Thomas Coryat, who published “Coryat’s Crudities” in 1611. Richard Lassels’ 1670 travelogue detailing his Italian adventure also helped inspire others to go on the grand tour.
During the 1960s, American hippies and young people from all walks of life began creating their own version of the grand tour. These men and women relied on hitchhiking and cheap buses to transport them throughout Europe and Asia. Today, this tradition has evolved into a gap year, where students take a year off after earning a college degree or diploma to travel the world.
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