10 of the Top-Rated Cultural Experiences Per Viator Travelers

Italy is Europe’s ground zero for art and architecture lovers, but with such an enormous array of art galleries, museums, and cathedrals, it can be hard to know where to begin. Although the question of whether to focus on Rome, Venice, or Florence will likely remain a dilemma for art aficionados (correct answer: all of them), this guided tour of the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica will help you make the most of your time in these must-see cultural attractions.

What one reviewer said: “I definitely recommend this tour if you’re interested in seeing the most famous works in the museum and don’t have a lot of background. Our guide Elisa’s enthusiasm for art and history was contagious, and she taught me so much!” Carolyn_T, Jun 2024

Sifting through the tourist traps to find an authentic flamenco show in Spain can be tricky for first-time visitors, especially if you don’t speak Spanish. This show at the Centro Cultural Flamenco in Madrid is the real deal, so secure your tickets in advance for a magical evening of entertainment.

What one reviewer said: “The dance, the music, the singers, and the place. In one word: magical. Congratulations, I don’t have any more words … to describe it.” Gloria_T, May 2024

Stanley Park in Vancouver is a popular tourist attraction and a lovely place to stroll and admire the views. But if you want more than a surface-level experience of the sprawling park, take a tour with a First Nations guide. On this tour, you’ll go on a 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) walk while learning how the First Nations people of the area have used and managed the land for centuries.

What one reviewer said: “It’s been a few days since our tour, and I’ve grown more and more appreciative as time’s drawn on. Truly, this tour was life-changing.” Gemma_B, Dec 2023

The South Carolina city of Charleston played a significant role in the transatlantic and interstate trade of enslaved people, and this dark history has shaped its present culture. On this walking tour, listen to your guide’s stories from Black folklore while strolling past historically important sites.

What one reviewer said: “Informative, interesting, and thought provoking! A great learning experience for all! Insightful discussion about what shapes our own narratives and belief systems.” Laura_P, May 2024

Before or after going on a wildlife safari in Kenya, make time to visit a Maasai village to meet members of this Indigenous group and learn about their lifestyles, including their food, clothing, and animal-rearing practices. This tour of a Maasai village near Nairobi is especially convenient, as you can fit it around flights into or out of the country. While spotting lions and elephants will be a natural highlight in Kenya, this village tour will be a cultural sightseeing highlight.

What one reviewer said: “Awesome experience. Great guide and lovely people at the village.” Naomi_W, Mar 2024

Japan’s traditional culture may seem impenetrable to first-time travelers, but joining guided workshops is a good way to get an introduction. Kyoto is right at the top of the list of cultural destination recommendations in Japan, thanks to its well-preserved temples, palaces, and genteel traditional culture. During this tea ceremony experience in Kyoto, you’ll get to sample matcha green tea in an old-style tatami mat room while dressed in a vibrant kimono and posing for photos.

What one reviewer said: “Beautiful experience! Fun to select and be dressed in one of the many incredible kimonos. Gained a new perspective on the culture. [The] tea ceremony was lovely and a meditative experience.” Donna_C, Jun 2024

The Rajasthani city of Jaipur is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in crafts, textiles, and fashion. As well as raiding the bazaars, take a block-printing workshop to learn about the history of this centuries-old fabric-decorating method and to make some for yourself. Experiential cultural tours don’t get much more hands-on than making your own fabric.

What one reviewer said: “Monty was a super friendly and engaging guide. We learned about the history of block printing, the technique, and then got to print our own cloth. A great hands-on experience!” Nia_N, Feb 2024

Many of Nepal’s ethnic groups trace their heritage back to neighboring Tibet, but the Himalayan country is also home to a large population of Tibetan refugees who fled the Chinese territory in the 1950s. Visit a refugee settlement in the lakeside city of Pokhara with a guide from the community for a truly authentic cultural immersion tour. Learn about the struggles and way of life for Tibetans in Nepal and share a meal with a family.

What one reviewer said: “One of the best activities we did in Nepal. Definitely a must if you are interested in the plight of the Tibetans and the preservation of their culture. I learned so much from Thupren [who] is very knowledgeable.” 60d, Mar 2024

Many visitors to Sydney visit The Rocks, a historic neighborhood that’s often touted as the “starting point” of the city because it’s where many Europeans first landed or settled. However, it had long been home to the Gadigal people, and curious travelers can tour illi-Langi—The Rocks’ Indigenous name—to experience Australia’s largest city from a different perspective.

What one reviewer said: “What a fantastic experience! Amanda was an incredible tour guide and truly helped share what it meant to be part of her tribe. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience, and learning about her traditions and history.” Joanna_P, Apr 2024

Rotorua is known as a heartland of Indigenous Māori culture and contains some of New Zealand travelers’ favorite cultural adventures. After touring the bubbling mud pools and spurting geysers of this geothermally active part of the North Island, join this evening experience at a Māori village, which includes a 3-course dinner and traditional song and dance performances.

What one reviewer said: “We thought it was very special to be taught Maori culture, and everything from the food to the guides to the music made this a truly unique experience we’ll never forget.” Leana_C, Apr 2024