Rick Steves
Rick Steves is the founder of Rick Steves Europe, a travel company built on guidebooks, public television shows, and European tours.
Rick Steves's Bio
Rick Steves is the founder of Rick Steves Europe, a travel company built on guidebooks, public television shows, and European tours. Born in 1955, he grew up in Edmonds, Washington, and developed a passion for Europe during a high school trip. He turned that passion into a business that now generates over $100 million annually from tours and guidebook sales, while giving away most of his travel content for free through his PBS shows and website.
Career Timeline
1973 — First European Trip
Traveled to Europe with a friend after high school, sparking lifelong passion for travel.
1980 — Started Teaching Travel Classes
Began offering 'Travel Europe Cheap' classes at the University of Washington experimental college.
1981 — Self-Published First Guidebook
Self-published 'Europe Through the Back Door' guidebook, initially selling from his car.
1984 — Led First European Tour
Led his first minibus tour through Europe, beginning what would become a major tour company.
1991 — Launched PBS Television Show
Debuted 'Rick Steves' Europe' on public television, becoming a recognizable PBS personality.
2019 — 30,000 Annual Tour Travelers
Company operated 1,200 tours annually serving 30,000 travelers before the pandemic.
2024 — $120 Million Annual Revenue
Rick Steves Europe reached approximately $120 million in annual revenue, primarily from tours and guidebooks.
