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18 BCE
The ancient world
The origins of the modern holiday were in ancient Rome, where there were "holy days", religious feasts when people did not work. -
1095
The middle ages
The main reasons for travel were trade and religion. Pilgrims travelled to cathedral town and religious centres, such as Rome and Canterburry. -
1500
The early modern period
The Reinaissance revived interest in the ancient world. Sightseeing became an essential part of tourism. Wealthy people also travelled for pleasure and for health reasons. -
The Grand Tour
In the 18th century, the Grand Tout was a form of education for wealthy noblem.It was a journey through Europe which could last from a few months to severeal years. Italy, whit its heritage of ancient Roman monuments, became one of the most popular places to visit. -
The 19th century
In the 1800s the Romantic movement created interest in nature and mountain scenery. After 1850 the Industrial Revolution led to massive changes in travel. The development of raiways and steamships made inexpensive and rapid travel possible for the new middle and working classes. -
Thomas Cook, the first tour operator
In july 1841 Thomas Cook, a Baptist massionary worker In England, persuased the Midland Counties Railway Company to run a special train from Leincester to Loughborough for a religious meeting. This was the first "organized tour". -
The Circular Note
Thomas Cook invented traveller's cheque to make it easier to pay all over the world -
The 20th century
Sunbathing became fashionable as rich tourists travelled south to enjoy the sunny climate on the French and Italian Rivieras.