My Top 3 and Bottom 3 Countries to Run Tours

I often get asked what my favourite — and least favourite — countries are to run tours in. My answers usually shock people. So here are my top three and bottom three, based purely on what it’s like working as a tour guide.

I’m judging these destinations on organisation, safety, logistics, and how easy (or difficult) they make my job — not just how beautiful they are as holiday spots.

Let’s start positive.

1. United Kingdom

Yes, I know this sounds biased — but hear me out.

I’m grouping the UK under one umbrella here, and the main reason it takes the top spot is simple: it’s home. I feel confident running tours there. I understand how everything works, and that makes a huge difference.

It’s also one of the safest and most streamlined places to operate. Organisation is strong, transport is straightforward, and communication is easy. Parents who feel nervous about sending their kids on a Euro-style trip are usually far more comfortable with the UK.

Everyone speaks English, which naturally makes everything smoother. From suppliers to hotels to emergency services — it all just works.

The downside? It can get repetitive after a while. And let’s be honest — the weather isn’t great most of the time.

2. Switzerland

One word: Alps.

They are magical, and they honestly take my breath away every time I see them.

Switzerland is incredibly organised. Transport runs on time, systems are clear, and everything feels efficient. As a guide, that makes life so much easier.

The nightlife isn’t wild — in fact, there’s barely any nightlife at all — which actually makes it a breeze to manage groups.

The only thing that lets Switzerland down is the price. Everything is expensive. It’s definitely not a budget-friendly destination, and that can create pressure when managing expectations.

3. Maldives

I love these islands.

The weather, the sea, and the locals are fantastic. The people are polite, friendly, and incredibly hardworking.

So why isn’t it higher on the list?

Island time.

If you say 16:00 for pick-up, it might mean 16:20… 16:30… or even an hour later. Everything moves at a very relaxed pace. While that’s part of the charm, it can be frustrating when you’re trying to fit a lot into one day.

Still, it’s not the end of the world — just something you have to adapt to.

Now for the Bottom 3

3rd Worst: France

This one surprises people.

It’s not the food. It’s not the sights. It’s the logistics.

Traffic, disruptions, and general chaos can make it stressful to run tours. I still find parts of the metro confusing, and I personally wouldn’t use it late at night.

And I’ll say it — I personally think Paris is overrated. As iconic as it is, running tours there can feel like navigating an overpriced, overcrowded maze. Between the traffic, the queues, and the constant rush, it can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare.

That said, I haven’t found the suppliers I work with to be rude — which is a common stereotype. In my experience, that hasn’t been true.

2nd Worst: Croatia

This is based mainly on my experience running sail boat tours.

Unfortunately, there’s still a strong party-tour reputation, especially with young Australian groups. When that’s the expectation, it can invite trouble.

You’re up late taking groups bar-hopping, trying to prove your worth because around 50% of your income can come from tips. Meanwhile, the Croatian crew handle most of the operational jobs.

You’re often dealing with drunk guests until 3am, then waking up at 7am and repeating the cycle. It’s exhausting and unsustainable long-term.

Worst: Italy

This is the one that shocks most people.

Italy is beautiful. The history is incredible. But running tours there? I find it extremely challenging.

For a country with such a powerful historical legacy, many systems feel outdated. Things rarely run on time. Logistics can be chaotic. Plans often don’t go smoothly.

Safety concerns are increasing too — from pickpocketing to break-ins.

And unfortunately, even great gelato can’t make up for the stress.