Highlights
- Happy by day two or we'll bring you home with a full refund
- Full day tours to both Venice and Verona, including a choice of a ‘Classic’ or ‘Undiscovered’ tour, accompanied by a local guide
- Full day exploring beautiful Lake Garda
- Marvel at the breathtaking alpine scenery of Dolomites on a full-day tour
- Visit a local vineyard, with a guided tour of the cellars and a tasting of the superb wines
- Enjoy a free day to explore further at your leisure or relax and take in the incredible scenery
- Seven nights in a choice of conveniently located accommodation rated three to four-star superior, including all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner. (Stays at the Hotel Portici and Antico Borgo are on a bed-and-breakfast basis)
- The Signature Tour option includes all of the above as well as:
- Enjoy an enhanced wine tasting experience with additional wines and a superb rustic lunch with local ingredients in an authentic traditional restaurant
- Absorb Verona’s unique and breathtaking atmosphere over an aperitivo, against a memorable backdrop of its extraordinary amphitheatre
- Cruise Venice’s iconic canals in the style and elegance of yesteryear, aboard a traditional gondola
Inclusions
- The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms and Lake View rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
- Return flights
- Seven nights’ accommodation in a three to four-star superior hotel of your choice
- Daily breakfast and dinner (Stays at the Antico Borgo and Portici Hotels are on a bed-and-breakfast basis)
- All local taxes and transfers
- All tours as mentioned
- The services of a Riviera Travel tour manager
- Not included is the optional cable car ride during the Dolomites tour. The approximate cost is €20 which is payable locally.
1
You should arrive at the airport to take your flight from your selected airport. On arrival a coach will take you to the delightful lakeside resorts of either Malcesine or Riva del Garda, both beautifully surrounded by lofty peaks, situated at the more scenic north end of the lake. The rest of the day will be spent at leisure, allowing you time to settle into the hotel and start exploring if you wish.
2
Lake Garda first came to fame in the latter days of the 19th century when visitors came to the clean mountain air and it has been famous as an area of outstanding natural beauty ever since. Today we will have a tour of the lake, passing through some lovely, typically Italian villages complete with tiny harbours clinging to the shoreline with the mountains behind. Today we also see lush groves of olives, citrus trees and of course vines used for making the famous Bardolino wines. Scenically the shore varies from the rich vegetation of the middle reaches, to the more rugged north covered with pine trees whose unmistakable scent hangs heavy in the air.
3
Today we head north to the stunning Dolomite Mountains the result of geological activity some 230 million years ago, giving them a gorgeous pink and lime-green hue. The foothills are strikingly green pastures studded with the occasional small shepherd’s house, a few sheep and goats here and there with pine forests stretching into the distance. Autonomous since the 12th century, today you would believe you were in another country. The houses in the picturesque tiny hamlets resemble Swiss or Austrian style chalets, low with gently sloping roofs and enormous window boxes crammed with flowers of every imaginable colour. The people are different too, taller than Italians and speaking a dialect of German! We have plenty of stops today as well as the opportunity to ascend on a cable car (subject to seasonal operation) to enjoy panoramic views of the whole area. There are not enough words to describe the awesome splendour of this rugged landscape and its clean, crisp and invigorating mountain air – it really will take your breath away. Due to its remote situation, it is home to a huge amount of rare and unique wildlife, so if you are lucky you could see chamois, ibex and golden eagles and various deer.
4
Today is a free day to explore at your leisure. Riva del Garda has been welcoming visitors since the 19th century and today the old town is a collection of typically Italian buildings painted the enticing pastel shades of cream, peach, magenta and ochre so reminiscent of Mediterranean countries. It has several harbours with boats rising and falling with the gentle waves and is dominated by a medieval fortress. Nearby is a most attractive square, beautifully lined with pavement cafés which all blends together to make Riva one of the most attractive towns on the lake.
5
After an early breakfast we take the drive to Venice, unique, caught in a time warp and as culturally rich as any city can be. We will take a walking tour during which we will see St Mark’s Square and its Basilica, the Campanile, Doge’s Palace together with countless other places of interest. Venice first came to prominence in the 10th century and grew in wealth and power on gaining its independence from Byzantium, reaching its zenith during the 15th century. It was then that many of the fantastic buildings you see today were built. Venice at the time was the greatest power in the Mediterranean with an empire encompassing Crete, parts of Turkey and a huge portion of Northern Italy and it soon created a capital to match. Situated between east and west, trading quickly grew and innumerable merchants made fortunes manifesting this new found wealth, just as people do today, in the arts and property, private and municipal. St. Mark’s Basilica is a must: built to house the relics of St. Mark himself, it is Europe’s most exotic cathedral with the decoration inside certainly being very opulent. The statistics are staggering – there are over 40,000 square feet of detailed mosaics of every colour of the rainbow covering the entire interior. The blend of coloured marble columns, gold and red painting, and bas-reliefs combine to create one of the world’s most beautiful buildings. Adjacent is the Doge’s Palace, home of the most powerful man in Venice who, incidentally, was elected for life. The Palace was also the seat of government councils and courts, as well as the prisons. Obviously the government of a great power had to be accommodated appropriately and so, as a visit will reveal, it houses the most amazing wood carvings and one room alone has four Tintorettos in it. The floor is a revelation too, inlaid with exotic woods from all over the known world from as far afield as Japan. The walls and ceilings are exquisitely decorated with paintings, frescoes and gold leaf. St. Mark’s Square is a must too, and the focal point of the city since its foundation. Today though, visitors have replaced merchants, and to sip a coffee in one of the pavement cafés and absorb the beauty around you must rank as one of life’s great pleasures. To see it all at once, why not take a trip up the Campanile, the imposing tower, originally built as a lighthouse and where Galileo demonstrated his telescope to a sceptical public. For art lovers there is Accademia, housing one of the finest collections in the world with superb examples of Renaissance work, or there is the Guggenheim with exhibits by Miro, Picasso, Chagall and Léger among others. One thing that really strikes you about Venice is that it is not nearly as expensive as you might believe. Away from St. Mark’s Square, small restaurants offer three course meals at reasonable prices. But Venice is not just art and monuments – fantastic though they are the city really needs to be seen from the water too, and what better than by taking a trip on a gondola. These beautifully made boats are crafted from 300 individual pieces of wood. A short ride on one of them is a lovely and peaceful way to explore the backwaters of the city. You will have sore feet when you return to the hotel but everyone at least once in their lives should visit this wondrous city. If you've been to Venice before, perhaps join us on our tour of 'undiscovered' Venice with a local guide and explore the less-visited places that are just as intriguing. See the Santa Maria della Pietà church and the adjacent orphanage where Vivaldi taught music. Tucked away nearby is a modest Greek settlement, where we find the beautiful Greek Orthodox church with its classically Venetian exterior. A short walk takes us down the narrow alleys so typical of the city to Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo, one of Venice's most significant squares with several spectacular highlights: the imposing Dominican church here boasts even more impressive interiors, and the majestic Scuola Grande di San Marco houses many of Tintoretto's masterpieces. Signature Experience: No visit to this city of canals is complete without experiencing it from the water. After our guided tour, immerse yourself in one of the world’s most romantic and inspiring locations, as you drift along Venice’s iconic waterways aboard a traditional gondola, capturing the mesmerising views at every turn that so inspired countless artists, poets, and writers through the ages.
6
This morning you’re free to explore your surroundings as you wish. So what’s it to be? A stroll around the port is a charming way to spend your time, perhaps indulging in a little shopping or simply relax. Vineyards abound in this area thanks to the favourable climate, so this afternoon we will visit a small family run wine estate located in the fertile valley of the Trentino region, where we will have a guided tour of the cellars, followed by a tasting of some of the wines produced by the family. Signature Experience: Sample some of the finest wines of the region, savouring the flavours of a selection of superb produce on this enhanced wine tasting experience. Sit down to a hearty rustic lunch lovingly created from the finest local produce, in the delightful authentic ambience of the owner’s traditional restaurant where you’ll be made to feel like one of the family.
7
Verona is one of the most beautiful and pleasant cities in Italy and today we have a guided walking tour in order to appreciate it at its best, discovering its hidden side too. We approach through the centuries-old city walls – when you enter the old town you cannot help but admire! Medieval pink-hued buildings complete with contrasting frescoes underneath archways unchanged for centuries. Typical pavement cafés abound, some with violinists serenading their clients whilst they take a refreshing drink, enjoying the shade from the warm sunshine. It has tiny narrow streets, complete with the tasteful shops, so typical of Italy, and then there is the market place dating from Roman times, with interesting reminders of the city’s past. The tragic story of Romeo and Juliet is set in Verona and when you experience the atmosphere here you can see why. The two great lovers from rival families have inspired countless films, poems and dramas. You can actually see the balcony where the immortal words “O Romeo, Romeo” were reputedly spoken. The Roman arena is awe inspiring but there are also countless medieval and Renaissance squares and courtyards to explore, as well as a superb 12th century cathedral which houses a work by Titian. The Roman Theatre is a must too, as is one of the Renaissance’s finest gardens with clipped box hedges and a dazzling display of colour. Another interesting site is San Zeno – arguably the finest Romanesque church in northern Italy. One of the most delightful things about Verona is that although being close to Venice it receives fewer visitors. This afternoon is free so you can explore as you wish, or you could go shopping. Italy is inextricably linked with fashion, style and chic, and Verona has some lovely shops with prices not nearly as expensive as you may imagine, with leather ware being particularly good value. For those who have been to Verona before, our ‘undiscovered’ tour is the best way of seeing a different side of this city, including many hidden cultural and architectural gems that most visitors never see. Signature Experience: After our guided tour of Verona, take stock and reflect on this legendary city’s ethereal beauty over a refreshing aperitivo just like a local. Soak up the atmosphere and views of its magnificent architecture and Roman amphitheatre as the echoes of history ring out over the exquisite domes and spires of this magical place.
8
Today the coach will take us to the airport, at the appropriate time, to take our return flight home after a really memorable tour.
4* Superior Hotel Savoy Palace – Riva Del Garda
A hotel exuding elegance and refinement, superbly managed by its third-generation family owners. Set approximately 150 yards from the lakeside, it offers striking alpine vistas as you stroll along a pathway to the harbour and Old Town. The lounge and bar create a convivial ambience while the restaurant, which enjoys an excellent reputation, serves both regional and international dishes and prides itself on its level of service. There’s a small indoor swimming pool and in the grounds you’ll find an extensive heated pool and hydro-massage tub surrounded by an attractive sun terrace with flowers and hanging baskets adding colour. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms, which have balcony views, are extremely well-appointed and stylishly furnished, with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, safe, minibar and hairdryer. Please note the use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.
4* Superior Hotel Kristal Palace - Riva Del Garda
The four-star superior boutique Hotel Kristal Palace is arguably one of the lake's finest hotels and is extremely proud of its many accreditations. 200 meters from the lake it is set in an immaculately maintained grounds and on arriving you will instantly recognise everything about this luxurious property exudes comfort and the utmost good taste in a modern style. Opened in 2011, the lobby makes extensive use of warm pastel coloured marble, leather settees and tinted glass whilst fine art adorn the walls. The rooms themselves are a real quality statement feature hardwoods, marble, superb fabrics the finest bed linen and leather headboards, they scream craftsmanship. The bathrooms feature the most contemporary fittings, powerful invigorating showers and quality bathroom cosmetics. Food is a real passion here and in the restaurant, with views into the kitchen, talented chefs will truly exceed your expectations. Imaginative fine dining and fresh seasonal produce is the theme with classic Italian cuisine presented with a modern twist to really excite your palate. The atmosphere is enhanced by exquisite glass and tableware, fresh flowers, even the bread is baked on site, the whole concept is a quality restaurant in its own right and an unobtrusive pianist completes the atmosphere. On the roof is a real gem, the heated swimming pool surrounded by a roof terrace with sun-loungers, affording an amazing 360 panoramic view of the stunning lake surrounded by its majestic mountains. Weather permitting you can enjoy breakfast here, plus there is a bar which is a wonderful place to unwind after a day's sightseeing whilst enjoying the view. Please note: Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting. Please note: The use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel's discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.
4* Hotel Antico Borgo - Riva Del Garda
A really lovely location, the four star Hotel Antico Borgo is in Riva del Garda’s atmospheric historic centre on a pedestrianised cobbled street lined with tasteful boutiques and tiny restaurants, yet less than five minutes’ walk from the lake itself. A really lovely conversion from two townhouses it emanates old-world ambience and recently renovated to a very high standard, the spacious welcoming reception and bar area offers comfortable seating and just off this is the restaurant. The rooms themselves are of course, modern with the simple yet imaginative decoration at which the Italian’s excel so well. The roof top terrace offers really spectacular views across terracotta roof tops and the church spire over the lake to the mountains beyond and with no modern development to ‘blot’ the view, this is picture postcard standard. Coach access is difficult of course due to the historic situation, so a five minute walk is necessary from the collection point, but luggage is transferred for you. Please note: Stays at this hotel include daily breakfast only, so you have the flexibility to enjoy the local cuisine at the town's fine restaurants. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting. Use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.
4* Hotel Portici - Riva Del Garda
The four-star Hotel Portici is one of Riva’s most delightful hotels, professionally managed to a high standard it is beautifully located in the old town, just 30 metres from Riva’s main square and close to the lake itself. It was once a historic manor house and thus boasts a wealth of period features, stonework and vaulted ceilings creating a wonderful genteel ambience throughout the hotel. The rooms themselves are thoroughly contemporary in the true tradition of imaginative Italian design, plus there is a convivial bar and atmospheric restaurant featuring tradition local cuisine. Of course, the hotel is entirely air-conditioned. Please note: Stays at this hotel include daily breakfast only, so you have the flexibility to enjoy the local cuisine at the town's fine restaurants. Use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature. Where hotels feature a swimming pool, pools are open in the summer months weather permitting.
4* Hotel Europa - Riva Del Garda
The four-star rated Hotel Europa is truly a wonderful and intimate hotel, in an outstanding spot on the lakefront right in the centre of Riva del Garda, with unrivalled views of the historic port. It has a modern lobby and comfortable lounge to relax in after a day of sightseeing. Best of all though is the superb terrace overlooking the harbour and colourful main piazza, with probably the best views in the whole of Riva. In the evenings you will dine in the hotel’s restaurant serving local specialities and typical Italian dishes. The air-conditioned rooms are very well appointed with private facilities, satellite TV, phone and safe, and have been recently renovated. There is a small roof top swimming pool and sun terrace with great views over the sparkling waters of the lake. Please note that where hotel swimming pools are open during the summer months, weather permitting. Single rooms and lake view rooms available on request, supplements apply. Please note the use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.