ITALY The Italian specialist for group tours

Transcription

1 ITALY 2019 The Italian specialist for group tours

2 Why book your package tour to Italy with us? FIXED GROUP ALLOCATIONS THROUGHOUT ITALY Fixed group allocations in more than 300 hotels (from 3* to 5* category) from the Dolomites to Sicily no one else offers you this breadth of group hotel cover in Italy. ASSISTANCE 24/7 Michelangelo local client support in the most important destinations (Italian Lakes, Trentino, Cinque Terre, Tuscany, Rome, Sorrento and Sicily). QUALITY TESTED HOTELS All our hotels are regularly visited and quality tested by our experienced Contracts team. Our many years experience of personally escorting tours ensures quality assurance for your guests. Our selection of suitable properties is guided by the following key principles: value for money, hotel location, hotel and room facilities, professional management and, ultimately, their sales potential for you. VALUE ADDED SERVICES We seek to offer special, value-added inclusions for our clients at each property to enable you to differentiate your offer including a welcome drink (a glass of prosecco or white wine), porterage, and tea or coffee after dinner. FLIGHT PACKAGES - SHORT SEA CROSSINGS We can also offer all programmes as flight-inclusive packages, or provide local coach transfers if you source your own flights. We can include return short sea or Eurotunnel crossings from the UK if required. OVERNIGHT STAYS Overnight stays en route to Italy can also be provided in our packages. We have a wide selection of hotels in key locations in Belgium, France, Germany and Austria to give you the opportunity to choose the most appropriate hotel for your requirements. GROUP RATES FREE POLICY Our group rates are valid from just 18 paying people Free places: one free place for every 18 full-paying persons (the 1st in a single room; the 2nd in a half-twin room). COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE In selected programmes we grant 2 free places COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE for the coach crew with just 25 paying persons look out for the logo! Our General Booking Conditions can be found on our website Michelangelo International Travel was founded on February 8th Reliability We offer fixed group allocations in more than 300 hotels all over Italy. Commitment Our entire Management team has remained with the company throughout. Experience and support Over 60 motivated and creative employees ensure successful trips for you. Quality assured Michelangelo is the only Italian Incoming Tour Operator to be ISO certified by the independent German organisation TUV Nord. Valued partner Over 800 companies operate in excess of 4500 group tours with us every year. Onsite experts Italy: Lake Garda, Rome, Naples, Milan, Venice. USA: Chicago. UK: Hertfordshire. Product innovation We have introduced special themed tour products for English-speaking markets: More Inclusive Hotels, Gusto tours and Special events with dedicated programmes. Michelangelo Online - keeping you constantly informed. Our dedicated website helps you plan and operate excellent tours to Italy. Access our latest offers and send off a quote enquiry. Michelangelo International Travel S.r.l. I Riva del Garda (TN) Via Monte Misone 13/b Tel.: Fax:

3 Welcome We are delighted to present a wide selection of handpicked tour suggestions for your groups to Italy. We have concentrated solely on group business since our inception 25 years ago. In that time we have developed a wide range of programmes for our many trade partners, which is testimony to the hard work of our dedicated staff. Our tours appeal to the diverse interests of groups travelling to Italy and you will find them as varied as the country itself. Whether you are interested in active tours, music trips, weekend getaways, memorable breaks in Rome, or longer round tours encapsulating the essence of Italy, we can provide a host of possibilities to explore all of our country, with programmes that are sure to enchant your clients. We offer it all, from the lofty peaks of the South Tyrol and the enchanting Dolomites to fiery Sicily, and reveal the splendour and rich history of Italian cities and the breathtaking scenery that awaits the traveller throughout the land. Our many publications and comprehensive website provide you, our partners, with all the information you could ever need to create unbeatable tours, and our expert team is on hand to assist you all the way. We are proud of our country and invite you to come and discover the wonders of Italy with us. Lorena and Lorenzo Risatti Together with our innovative Michelangelo Team a look at our company videos

4 Find inspiration to travel by visiting our website Get to know us in our company video Choose from a vast array of tours all over Italy, with all the information that an operator could ever wish for We love our country and work tirelessly to bring you all the latest innovations and developments via our blog posts Join us and use our great resources to become real Italian experts for your clients Follow us... and get connected

5 Official IATA Member Michelangelo flight-inclusive packages Book now to secure the best flight rates! MICHELANGELO PROVIDES FLIGHT INCLUSIVE PACKAGES FOR GROUPS Did you know we can also provide flight inclusive arrangements for our partners? Utilise our excellent commercial terms with a wide range of quality airlines and combine these with our land packages to create inspiring programmes for your groups. Send us your requests, with your preferred departure airport, and we will do the rest! GROUPS TRAVELLING BY AIR OR RAIL All our tours featured in this brochure can be operated by groups arriving in Italy without a coach. In this case, we will provide all land services for your clients, including airport or rail station meet and greet, coach transportation, full excursion programmes and local guides as required. Contact us for a dedicated quote.

6 page 11 MORE INCLUSIVE HOTELS 12 LAKE GARDA 13 ITALIAN RIVIERA 14 LAKE MAGGIORE 15 ADRIATIC RIVIERA 16 TUSCANY page 17 CLASSIC 18 TRENTINO 20 LAKE GARDA 22 LAKE MAGGIORE & COMO 24 ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERAS 26 TUSCANY 28 ROME page 31 GUSTO 32 PIEDMONT 33 LAKE GARDA 34 VENETO 35 EMILIA ROMAGNA 36 TUSCANY page 37 ACTIVO 38 LAKE GARDA E-Bike 39 TUSCANY E-Bike 40 LAKE GARDA Hiking 41 CINQUE TERRE Hiking 42 AMALFI COAST Hiking 44 SICILY Hiking 46 SARDINIA Hiking page 49 EVENTS 50 TUSCANY Steam Train Tour 52 TUSCANY Medieval Banquet in Certaldo 53 TUSCANY Middle Ages in Volterra 54 TUSCANY Olive harvest & Truffle fair 55 LAKE MAGGIORE Camellias in bloom 56 VENETO Carnival in Venice 57 FRENCH RIVIERA Menton & Nice Carnival 58 VENETO Arena di Verona Festival 59 TUSCANY Puccini Festival 60 TEATRO ALLA SCALA in Milan 60 GRAN TEATRO LA FENICE in Venice page 61 TOURS 62 ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERAS 64 FLORENCE ROME - VENICE 66 SOUTHERN ITALY (Sorrento & Apulia) 68 SICILY 70 CORSICA & SARDINIA 72 GRAND TOUR OF ITALY A selection of hotels in best-selling destinations providing value added extras. From tea and coffee to the open bar, your clients will be delighted by our enhanced half board arrangements. A range of itineraries covering Italy s most iconic destinations including the Dolomites, the Northern Italian Lakes, the Italian Riviera, Tuscany and of course, Rome. Our best-selling tour programmes can be customised to suit your needs. Our inspirational tours are designed to make every food and wine enthusiast's heart beat faster. From secret street food markets to fine dining experiences, our tours are real journeys of discovery through Italy's culinary wonderland. Experience Italy off the beaten path our hiking and biking holidays showcase the most popular destinations from a different perspective. Our guided tours combine outdoor experiences with enjoyment of Italian cuisine, delightful scenery and cultural sites. A programme of tours dedicated to festivals and events all over Italy including experiences created exclusively for our customers. These alternative travel itineraries provide opportunities to experience the hidden corners of Italy and to be part of the local culture. Selected itineraries through Italy s most beautiful regions offer you a deeper insight into its people, history and culture. From North to South enjoy the many facets of Italian life discovering top destinations in one tour.

7 ITALY LAKE MAGGIORE & COMO MORE INCLUSIVE HOTELS CLASSIC EVENTS PIEDMONT GUSTO LAKE GARDA & TRENTINO MORE INCLUSIVE HOTELS CLASSIC GUSTO ACTIVO TOURS VENETO & FRIULI GUSTO EVENTS TOURS CINQUE TERRE & ITALIAN RIVIERA MORE INCLUSIVE HOTELS CLASSIC ACTIVO EVENTS TOURS ROME CLASSIC TOURS TUSCANY & UMBRIA MORE INCLUSIVE HOTELS CLASSIC GUSTO ACTIVO EVENTS TOURS EMILIA ROMAGNA & ADRIATIC RIVIERA MORE INCLUSIVE HOTELS GUSTO APULIA TOURS SARDINIA ACTIVO TOURS SORRENTO & AMALFI COAST ACTIVO TOURS SICILY ACTIVO TOURS

8 Magnificent Alta Pusteria - East Tyrol Welcome to Sillian AUSTRIA HOTEL WEITLANBRUNN Sillian Hotel ideally suited to groups "Charme More Inclusive" arrangement Favorable hotel location for interesting excursions Excellent position with direct access to the ski resorts, close to beauty spots as well as hiking and biking trails Just 2 km from the Italian border Suggested Excursions Cortina d Ampezzo and the land of the Three Peaks Great South Tyrolean Dolomites round trip Lesach Valley and Lake Weissensee The beauties of the Pusteria Valley (San Candido, Sesto, Dobbiaco, Brunico and Bressanone) Novacella Abbey and wine tasting Tobogganing By local train to the Innergschlösstal Distances (all information approximate) Lienz San Candido Brunico Cortina d Ampezzo Location: Beautifully situated at the edge of a forest at a height of m surrounded by the breathtaking mountains of the South Tyrol and Lienz Dolomites. The town centre is 15 minutes away on foot. The border to Italy is just 2km away Rooms: 88 rooms with sat- TV, central heating, hairdryer and safe Facilities: Restaurant with cosy wood-fire heating, bar, lobby, outdoor area with chestnut trees and playground, outdoor sunbathing area with sun loungers and parasols, 2 lifts, games room and spa area with indoor pool, sauna and gym (supplement applies for solarium and massages). Bicycle storage room available Complementary hotel service: Transfer to the Sillian train station (2 km) or San Candido Coach parking: At the hotel km km km km per person/night in based on twin/double room HB Winter Season 2018/ , on request , , ,- Double room for single use suppl. 20,- Summer Season , , , on request , ,- Double room for single use suppl. 20,- Local taxes not included and to be paid locally "Charme More Inclusive" Extensive Austrian-style breakfast buffet enhanced with Italian specialities like espresso and cappuccino Cake and snack buffet (cold/warm) from 2.30 to 5 pm incl. a selection of hot and cold drinks Buffet dinner with regional and international specialties Dinner drinks included: draught beer, house wine, soft drinks, apple juice, orange juice, table water, coffee and tea Free use of sauna and indoor pool 08 HOTEL WEITLANBRUNN

9 Charming East Tyrol Welcome to St. Jakob AUSTRIA HOTEL ALPENHOF St. Jakob Ideal hotel for groups (perfect for hikers, cyclists, coach groups and clubs) "Charme More Inclusive" arrangement Lovely Stube room for special evenings and events (without additional costs) Idyllic location in the Defereggen valley, direct connection to the ski resorts of St. Jakob, hiking and cycling trails, just 14 km from Italian border Renovated modern SPA & wellness area Suggested Excursions National Park Hohe Tauern Tyrol Grossglockner High Alpine Road Visit of the pilgrimage church of "Maria Schnee" in Obermauern Castle of Bruck, a castle as museum and stage Obersee / Staller Saddle Zell am See Malta Hochalmstrasse and Kölnbrein dam Tour of Lienz Dolomites Distances (all information approximate) Matrei in East Tyrol Lienz Sillian Zell am See Location: At a height of 1400m in the Defereggen Valley, only 300m from the centre and about 900m from the gondola lift which accesses superb hiking Rooms: 84 comfortable non-smoking rooms with hairdryer, sat- TV, safe, mini-fridge Facilities: Free Wi-Fi in the lobby, lounge, restaurant Hochgall with Zirbenstube and Tyrolean Stube, bar, conservatory and café terrace with panoramic view, 2 elevators, lawn for sunbathing with sun loungers and table tennis, TV room, games room, spa with indoor pool and sauna area (no extra charge), solarium and massages (extra charge), gym, bicycle storage and heated ski cellar Complementary hotel service: Wake-up calls, ski shuttle daily several times to the St. Jakob ski centre, transfer from the station of Lienz to the hotel (must be pre-booked), night porter, hiking poles and snowshoe rental Coach parking: At the hotel km km km km per person/night in based on twin/double room HB Winter Season 2018/ on request , , ,- Double room for single use suppl. 20,- Summer Season , , , on request , ,- Double room for single use suppl. 20,- Local taxes not included and to be paid locally "Charme More Inclusive" Extensive Austrian breakfast buffet Dinner with cold starters, soups and salads from the buffet, choice of menu or themed buffet Dinner drinks included: beer, house wine, soft drinks, mineral water, coffee and tea Cake and snack buffet (cold/warm) from 2.30 to 5 pm incl. a selection of hot and cold drinks Free use of spa facilities HOTEL ALPENHOF 09

10 GARDA HOTEL FORTE CHARME Nago-Torbole Breathtaking views on to the lake All rooms with balcony Hotel mit Charme, cosy and elegant atmopshere Excellent value for money NEW Wonderful heated pool Where the lake meets the sky Welcome to Lake Garda ITALY NEW SPA & wellness area hotel mit charme Distances (all information approximate) Riva del Garda 5 Limone del Garda Verona Venice km km km km The Garda Hotel Forte Charme in Nago/Torbole offers one of the prettiest views of Lake Garda, as it glistens in the sunlight. Famous as a preferred venue for poets and writers, Goethe once described Lake Garda perfectly: A magnificent theatrical work, Lake Garda the shore, surrounded by hills and mountains on either side, gleams from innumerable little towns and villages. The Garda Hotel Forte Charme is the ideal start point for mountain and lake outings. Hike on the lofty Monte Baldo, immerse yourself in fascinating Malcesine, wander through the heavenly little town of Limone or stroll along the lakeshore promenade in Riva del Garda. Arco and Torbole are a paradise for climbers, mountain bikers and surfers. And what better way to end a day full of lovely experiences than with an aperitif on the panoramic terrace while enjoying the sunset over the lake? You can also enjoy our hotel s unique qualities in the wellness area, swim laps in our heated panoramic pool with a view of the mountains above and the lake below. Work out on our fitness terrace while admiring the fascinating landscape and the play of light on the water. Relax, dive in and breathe out our complete wellness programme offers you rest and inspiration. Contact us for group rates and availability! info@michelangelo.travel Suggested Excursions Lake Garda Verona Castles and Lakes of Trentino including wine tasting Trento and the Ferrari sparkling wine experience Mantua and Valeggio on the River Mincio 10 GARDA HOTEL FORTE CHARME

11 MORE INCLUSIVE HOTELS page 12 LAKE GARDA 13 ITALIAN RIVIERA 14 LAKE MAGGIORE 15 ADRIATIC RIVIERA 16 TUSCANY

12 6 days from only 224,- LAKE GARDA HOTEL SOLE Navene Completely renovated property Free use of Spa area Live music on one evening Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast 5 x extensive buffet dinner Daily More Inclusive Live music on one evening Free entrance to Spa area 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion on Lake Garda and Sirmione Suggested Excursions Location: Set on a slope across the road from Lake Garda on the eastern shore s Via Gardesana, some 5 km from Malcesine which can be accessed several times a day by a tourist bus service (charge applies) Rooms: 56 rooms with minibar, safe, hairdryer and mostly with balcony Facilities: Restaurant, hotel bar, lift, garden, swimming pool with view of the lake, traffic free access to the lake, Spa area with sauna, steam room and jacuzzi Coach parking: Directly at the hotel Daily More Inclusive Buffet lunch at the hotel restaurant or picnic lunch to take away Open bar from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm including beverages at dinner Unlimited drinks included: water, soft drinks, draught beer, house wine, tea or coffee after dinner Malcesine, Limone and Riva del Garda by boat Castles and Lakes of Trentino including Grappa tasting Verona, City of Romeo and Juliet, with wine tasting in Valpolicella Full day trip to Venice Charming Mantua and the magnificent gardens of Sigurtà Park Brenta Dolomites and visit to an organic farm ** 224, , , , on request , , ** 224,- Single room suppl. 84,- **No single supplement on these dates 12 MORE INCLUSIVE - LAKE GARDA

13 6 days from only 189,- ITALIAN RIVIERA HOTEL LA MARINA San Bartolomeo al Mare / Diano Marina Family run hotel Pleasant location just 100 m from the beach and 1 km from the centre of Diano Marina Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast 1 x 3-course dinner on arrival day 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course Daily More Inclusive Porterage in/out 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Sanremo and the Ligurian Hinterland Suggested Excursions Location: Between Cervo (1.5 km away) and Alassio (10 km) and close to the resort of Diano Marina. The beach is just 100 m from the hotel Rooms: 43 rooms with TV, telephone, free Wi-Fi, some of which have balcony and sea views Facilities: The hotel s restaurant offers a broad collection of tradtional Ligurian dishes. In addition the hotel features a TV lounge and terrace and offers cycle hire Coach parking: Public coach parking available just 40 m from the hotel Daily More Inclusive Coffee and cake in the afternoon Open bar after dinner from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm at the hotel bar Unlimited drinks included: water, soft drinks, draught beer, house wine, tea or coffee Nice and Cannes Menton and the Principality of Monaco Genoa and the narrow gauge Apennine Express railway Roman settlements at Albenga and Alassio , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 79,- MORE INCLUSIVE - ITALIAN RIVIERA 13

14 6 days from only 289,- LAKE MAGGIORE HOTEL EUROPA Ispra Hotel offering wonderful lakeside views Boat jetty right in front of hotel, ideal for excursions by boat Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast 1 x 3-course dinner 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course Daily More Inclusive 1 x welcome drink 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Borromean Islands and Stresa No coach required! 1 x private boat ride to Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Stresa 1 x entrance to the Palace and Gardens on Isola Bella Suggested Excursions Location: Hotel enjoys a peaceful location in a quiet area of the small village of Ispra directly on Lake Maggiore and provides guests with not only wonderful panoramic views of the lake but also a boat jetty from which boats depart bound for Stresa and the Borromean Islands Rooms: 35 rooms with air conditioning, SAT TV, telephone, minibar, free WiFi and balcony/terrace. The majority of the rooms also offer lake views Facilities: Spacious reception area, lifts, conference and meeting rooms, bar and restaurant with terrace and panoramic windows overlooking the lake Coach parking: At the hotel Daily More Inclusive Open bar after dinner from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm at the hotel bar Unlimited drinks included: water, soft drinks, draught beer, house wine, tea and coffee Lake Como and Lugano Fashion city of Milan Lake Orta and wine tasting Centovalli Train and Locarno , , , , on request , , ,- Single room suppl. 79,- 14 MORE INCLUSIVE - LAKE MAGGIORE

15 6 days from only 169,- ADRIATIC RIVIERA PARK HOTEL KURSAAL Misano Adriatico Just 30m from the beach Excellent client feedback and peer reviews Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast 3 x 3-course dinner 1 x Pasta Party and dessert buffet 1 x 4-course Gala evening meal with live music Salad and vegetable buffet each dinner Daily More Inclusive 1 x welcome drink with finger food 1 x full day tour guide for the excursion to San Marino and Santarcangelo di Romagna Suggested Excursions Location: In Misano Adriatico, 1.5 km south of Cattolica and just 30 m from the beach Rooms: 144 rooms with air conditioning, and for the most part with balcony, rooms have Sat.-TV, telephone, safe, mini fridge, free WiFi and hair dryer Facilities: Restaurant, bar, spa area with sauna, turkish bath and indoor pool (fee payable), swimming pool and gardens Coach parking: Pick up and drop off at the hotel, parking free of charge (subject to availability) at the nearby tennis courts and football pitches Daily More Inclusive Afternoon tea or coffee and cake between pm 2 for 1 Happy Hour promotion for 1 hour before and after dinner valid for every drink ½l water and ¼l wine per person included with every meal Pesaro and Gradara Historic centre of Rimini and Sant Arcangelo di Romagna Ferrara and the lagoon of Comacchio Mosaic town of Ravenna und the Cervia saltpans , , , , on request , , ,- Single room suppl. 79,- MORE INCLUSIVE - ADRIATIC RIVIERA 15

16 6 days from only 199,- TUSCANY HOTEL PICCADILLY S Montecatini Terme Recently completely renovated Great central location in Montecatini Terme Porterage service included Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast 5 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course Salad and vegetable buffet each dinner Daily More Inclusive 1 x welcome drink Porterage service 1 x 3 hour guided tour in Florence Suggested Excursions Location: In the heart of the spa town of Montecatini Terme, approx. 400 m from the thermal spa baths and about 600m from the train station Rooms: 50 rooms with air conditioning, Sat-TV, telephone, safe, hairdryer, free Wi-Fi Facilities: Restaurant, bar, lift Coach parking: Drop off and pick up 100 m from the hotel. Coach parking provided by Montecatini Parking, 400 m away. Luggage service included from coach drop off point to the hotel reception Daily More Inclusive Open bar after dinner from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm at the hotel bar with unlimited Tuscan wine ¼l wine and ½l water at each meal, tea and coffee after dinner Pisa and Lucca Siena and Chianti Valley with wine tasting Cookery class and Vinci, birthplace of Leonardo A taster trip to the 5 Terre San Gimignano and Volterra with Alabaster workshop Single room suppl. 64,- 16 MORE INCLUSIVE - TUSCANY

17 CLASSIC page 18 TRENTINO 20 LAKE GARDA 22 LAKE MAGGIORE 24 ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERAS 26 TUSCANY 28 ROME

18 6 days from only 234,- TRENTINO Brenta Dolomites & Lake Garda Where the cool Alps meet the warm Mediterranean Visit the Ferrari sparkling wine cellar Enjoy Mediterranean olive oil and visit to an organic apple farm Boat trip on Lake Garda 1 Arrival Check-in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 2 Exploring the Brenta Dolomites Enjoy amazing high mountain vistas before stopping by the Nardis waterfalls, whose cool waters cascade down 130m, before continuing on to the famous ski resort of Madonna di Campiglio. Continue on through the main valleys of the region, starting with the Val di Sole and later the Val di Non with its countless apple orchards. Enjoy a fresh apple juice or cider on a visit to a traditional local farm. 3 Trento Renaissance Alpine city and Ferrari sparkling wine Guided panoramic tour of the city, once inhabited by Etruscans, Gauls and Romans. Experience the historical centre of Trento, taking in the impressive Castle and Cathedral and typical palazzi of this unique Alpine city of art. Enjoy free time to explore the town. Visit the famous Ferrari wine cellar to discover how the fragrant local sparkling wine is made. 4 Lake Garda Limone, Malcesine and a boat ride Take a boat trip from Riva del Garda to Limone and get a real sense of the Mediterranean as you visit the historic and fragrant lemon groves. Cross the lake to Malcesine, a picturesque town nestled between the lake and Monte Baldo. Visit a traditional olive mill and discover the secrets of this staple ingredient of Italian cuisine. 5 Bolzano and the South Tyrolean Wine Road Guided tour of Bolzano, where Germanic and Latin cultures meet and Austrian tradition merges with Italian Dolce Vita. Time at leisure to enjoy the many shops under the beautiful arcades and the colourful fruit market. Take a drive along the Wine Road, surrounded by vineyards and orchards, to Lake Caldaro. Visit to a local wine cellar to enjoy a wine tasting. Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at the chosen hotel 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course welcome dinner 3 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x typical Trentino dinner (from September on based on Toerggelen meal) 1 x full day tour escort for the day in the Dolomites 1 x visit to an organic farm and including apple juice and cider tastings 1 x full day tour escort for the trip to Trento and Ferrari wine cellar 1 x visit to Ferrari wine cellar including tasting 1 x full day tour escort for trip to Lake Garda 1 x boat ride from Riva - Limone - Malcesine 1 x admission to the lemon groves in Limone 1 x visit and tasting at an olive mill 1 x full day tour escort for trip along the South Tyrolean Wine Road and Bolzano 1 x visit to a winery including wine tasting 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Contact us for a wider hotel selections. 18 CLASSIC

19 3* sup. Bio Hotel Elite Levico Terme Eco-friendly BIO Hotel Excellent value for money Location: The hotel is situated in a quiet area of Levico Terme, next to a thermal spa, and just a few steps from the town centre Rooms: 45 rooms with telephone, hairdryer, satellite TV, safe, air conditioning Facilities: Restaurant, lounge bar, TV room, lift, free internet point, terrace and large garden Coach parking: At the hotel ** 254, , , , on request , , ** 254,- Single room suppl. 69,- **No single supplement on these dates 3* sup. Fontanella Feeling Hotel Molveno Completely renovated in 2016 fantastic peer reviews Picturesque setting, just 200m from the centre of the village Panoramic view of both Lake Molveno and the Brenta Dolomites Location: In the centre of Molveno, just a few steps from the lakeshore Rooms: 32 rooms with balcony, safe, sat-tv, hairdryer, WiFi and air conditioning Facilities: Lift, hotel bar, restaurant, garden, sun terrace with lake views Coach parking: At the hotel , , , , on request , , ,- Single room suppl. 59,- 3* Hotel La Betulla Madonna di Campiglio Family-run hotel 10 minute walk to the resort centre of Madonna di Campiglio Alpine style atmosphere , , , , , ,- Location: Located at the entrance to Madonna di Campiglio, not far from the Colarin gondola lift offering fantastic views of the Brenta Dolomites Rooms: 28 comfortable rooms mostly with balcony and TV, safe, hairdryer Facilities: Restaurant free Wi-Fi, sauna available to book Coach parking: At the hotel Single room suppl. 69,- TRENTINO 19

20 6 days from only 239,- LAKE GARDA Lake Garda, Venice and Verona Towering peaks, glistening waters and the Italian cities of Romance Medieval castles and scenic boat trips on Italy s largest lake Quality wine and olive oil tasting experiences Full day excursion to Venice 1 Arrival Check-in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 2 Lake Garda Sirmione and boat ride Enjoy a drive along the Eastern shore of Lake Garda through the charming villages of Bardolino, Lazise and Garda. A boat ride takes us to Sirmione. Explore this picturesque little town, featuring quaint narrow streets and the Grottoes of Catullo, ruins of a 1st century Roman Villa. On the way back we visit a traditional olive mill to discover the secrets of this key ingredient in the Mediterranean diet. 3 Verona The City of Love and Amarone tasting in Valpolicella Guided tour of Verona, inspiration for Shakespeare s Romeo and Juliet, and one of the most important art sites in the Veneto region. Tour the magnificent Piazza Brà and its incredible Roman amphitheatre. Enjoy a little shopping in the Via Mazzini, surrounded by history, art and modern life Drive on to Valpolicella for visit to a wine cellar and delicious tasting of the wonderfully rich red Amarone wine. 4 Day at leisure or excursion to the Castles and Lakes of Trentino Visit the gorgeous Lake Tenno with its turquoise coloured waters. Travel over the Ballino Pass and stop by the romantic castle set on Lake Toblino before continuing on to a local distlillery for a Grappa tasting. Drive through the Cavedine Valley and view the impressive ruins of Drena Castle set above the road to end the day in Arco, a fascinating town, with its medieval castle ruins perched high above the town. Full-day tour escort 190,- Grappa tasting at a local brewery 4,- per person Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at the chosen hotel 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course dinner 4 x 3-course dinner with menu choice of starter & main course Salad buffet with all dinners 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion on Lake Garda 1 x boat trip Lazise Sirmione 1 x visit and tasting at an olive mill 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion Verona and Valpolicella 1 x 2 hour private guided tour in Verona 1 x wine cellar visit and tasting of Amarone wine 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Venice 1 x return boat-ride from Tronchetto coach park to Venice city centre 1 x 2 hour private guided tour in Venice 5 Venice Visit the unique and iconic lagoon city of Venice. Discover the secrets of its incredible architecture and history with a local guide, taking in the splendour of the Doge s Palace, the majestic St. Mark s Square and the Rialto Bridge. Explore the city s secret escapes off the beaten tourist tracks. 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Contact us for a wider hotel selections. 20 CLASSIC

21 4* Grand Hotel Riva Riva del Garda Great location in the city centre of Riva Roof top restaurant with amazing views of the lake Location: In the old-town of Riva del Garda, on the promenade at the start of the pedestrian-area with its enchanting little streets, just 5 minutes walk from the beach Rooms: 77 rooms with telephone, satellite-tv, safe, hairdryer and air-conditioning Facilities: Panoramic top floor restaurant, bar, lounge, 2 meeting rooms, lift and sun-terrace Coach parking: Free of charge at the trade fair site approx. 2 km from hotel , , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 99,- 4* Park Hotel Oasi Garda Spacious communal areas Beautiful garden with olive trees Location: In very quiet and sunny area about 1 km from the lake and the centre of Garda Rooms: 126 rooms with balcony or terrace, telephone, sat TV and minibar (deposit payable) Facilities: Bar, restaurant, swimming pool, terraces and winter garden. Fees are payable for safe facilities both in room and reception and minibus transfer to Garda Coach parking: At the hotel , , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 109,- 3* Hotel Caribe Brenzone All contracted rooms offer lake view Open Bar from 8 pm - 11 pm on request Location: The hotel enjoys a wonderful location on the lake s shore offering panoramic views approx. 1km from Pai und just 3km from the centre of Castelletto di Brenzone Rooms: 45 rooms with air conditioning, sat-tv, telephone, safe, free WiFi and hairdryer Facilities: Restaurant, bar, outdoor swimming pool (open seasonally), roof terrace and garden Coach parking: At the hotel , , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 59,- LAKE GARDA 21

22 6 days from only 279,- LAKE MAGGIORE & COMO Idyllic days on the Lakes Towns, Mountains and Islands Boat ride to the Borromean Islands Centovalli Train and Switzerland Detour to Lake Como 1 Arrival Check-in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 2 Borromean Islands and Stresa Take a boat trip to the famous Borromean Islands, enjoy ornate gardens, magnificent buildings, elegant villas and subtropical vegetation. Visit the sumptuous Baroque Palace on Isola Bella. Enjoy time out for lunch at leisure on the fishing village of Isola dei Pescatori. Discover historic Stresa with its elegant promenades and picturesque old town district. 3 Day at leisure or excursion to Lake Orta and Island of San Giulio Discover beautiful Lake Orta s enchanting little villages, embedded in the picturesque surrounding hills, radiating peacefulness and Mediterranean flair. Make your way across the old Market Square in Orta village and stroll through the narrow medieval alleyways passing by quaint secluded gardens along the way. A short 5 minute boat ride takes us to the island of San Giulio, home to the oldest church in the region. Full-day tour escort 220,- Return boat-ride to Island of San Giulio 5,- per person 4 Centovalli Train and Locarno Travel through Italy s largest wilderness area, the picturesque Val Grande national park to Domodossola, where we board the Centovalli train for a 2 hour journey through the fascinating valley of one hundred valleys. Crossing no fewer than 83 bridges and viaducts and passing quaint mountain villages we reach the charming Locarno in neighbouring Switzerland. Don t forget your passports! Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at the chosen hotel 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course dinner 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course Salad buffet with all dinners 1 x full day tour escort for the Borromean Islands and Stresa 1 x private return boat-ride to Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori 1 x entrance to the Palace and Gardens on Isola Bella 1 x full day tour escort for the Centovalli Train and Locarno 1 x train ticket Domodossola Locarno 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Lake Como 1 x 2 hour guided tour in Como 1 x boat-ride in the Gulf of Como 5 Lake Como The city of Como, centre of an ancient silk industry and built on the shores of the lake is our first port of call on today s programme. A guided tour will introduce us to the fascinating historic centre including the Cathedral and the magnificent lakeside promenade. In the afternoon, a one hour boat ride on the Gulf of Como will showcase beautiful scenery and the impressive villas of the rich and famous who have homes in this area. 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Contact us for a wider hotel selections. 22 CLASSIC

23 4* Hotel Milan Speranza au Lac Stresa Hotel in the heart of Stresa Boat-jetty to the Borromean Islands directly in front of the hotel Good value for money Location: In the centre of Stresa, right on the promenade opposite the boat jetty Rooms: 160 rooms with hairdryer, telephone, satellite TV, and air-conditioning Facilities: 2 lifts, bar, restaurant, lounge, conference rooms, terrace and tennis courts approx. 100 m away Coach parking: Public, approx. 5 minutes walk from the hotel (extra charge) , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 99,- 3* Hotel Miralago Verbania Intra Rooms with lake view Hotel in a lovely position in the centre of the village Just 300m to the jetty for the Borromean Islands Location: Directly on the promenade of Lake Maggiore, close to the boat jetty and approx. 5 minutes walk from the centre Rooms: 45 rooms with hairdryer, telephone, satellite TV and safe Facilities: Restaurant with lake-view, banqueting room, bar, lounge, TV room, lift. Public swimming pool, tennis courts and a golf course are all close by Coach parking: Drop off and pick up at the hotel, public coach park approx. 5 minutes walk from the hotel (currently free of charge) , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 84,- 3* Hotel Moderno Premeno Family-run hotel offering excellent, home cooked meals Peaceful location surrounded by fields with wonderful panoramic Location: At 850m overlooking Lake Maggiore in the heart of the climatic spa resort of Premeno Rooms: 52 rooms tastefully decorated and equipped with telephone and sat TV Facilities: The well-maintained garden area is very inviting and the hotel also offers a restaurant, bar with communal areas and a sun terrace. Coach parking: At the hotel , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 69,- LAKE MAGGIORE & COMO 23

24 6 days from only 209,- ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERA The Glitz and Glamour of the French and Italian Rivieras Chic Monte Carlo and the Cote d Azur Discover the treasures of Sanremo and the Ligurian Hinterland Genoa and the Apennine Express 1 Arrival Check-in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 2 Sanremo and the Ligurian hinterland Sumptuous parks, palm-lined promenades and elegant shopping streets characterise San Remo, the main city on the Riviera of Flowers. We then head into the peaceful Ligurian hinterland. Olive groves and vineyards are dotted alongside small towns like the medieval Dolceacqua. An olive oil tasting will be enjoyed here as well to round off your visit. 3 Nice and Cannes We begin our day with a guided tour of Nice. We will pay an external visit to the historic Hotel Negresco, symbol of the glorious splendour of the city and drive along the famous Promenade des Anglais. We continue on to Cannes, location of the famous Film Festival. Soak up the sophisticated and cosmopolitan atmosphere of the town centre as you stroll around. 4 Genoa and the Apennine Express Today we learn about Genoa s rich history by visiting some of the many fascinating places and churches around the ancient harbour. After this interesting insight we will take the famous narrow gauge Apennine Express to Casella. During the one hour journey you can enjoy the impressive natural landscape in comfort. Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at the chosen hotel 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course dinner 3 x 2-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x dinner featuring local produce Salad buffet with all dinners 1 x full-day tour escort for San Remo and the Ligurian hinterland 1 x olive oil tasting 1 x full day tour escort for Nice and Cannes 1 x full day tour escort in Genoa 1 x ticket train from Genoa to Casella 1 x full day tour escort for Menton and Monaco Visit to a traditional perfumery 5 Menton and the Principality of Monaco Today we will drive to Menton. The town is known as La perle de la France. Built atop a rock peak overlooking the sea and dominated by the Prince s Palace and Cathedral, the city offers several sights. The sensory experience of the day will be without doubt our visit to a perfumery to appreciate the true scent of luxury. 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Contact us for a wider hotel selections. 24 CLASSIC

25 3* Hotel Mediterraneo Diano Marina Great value for money Family run hotel, close to the city centre Location: Close to the centre, about 100 m from the beach Rooms: 40 rooms with sat-tv, safe, hairdryer, air-conditioning (extra charge) and balcony Facilities: Lift, bar, restaurant, day room with TV, sun terrace with sun chairs, pool (seasonal), pool-bar and private beach (charge extra) Coach parking: At the hotel , on request , , on request , ,- Single room suppl. 64,- 3* Hotel Villa Igea Diano Marina Just 10 minutes walk to the sea promenade Panoramic restaurant with views on to the Gulf of Diano Marina Lovely outdoor pool Location: Surrounded by greenery in a residential area, approx. 500 m from the sea Rooms: 48 rooms with hairdryer, satellite TV, safe, telephone and free WI-FI Facilities: Lift, lounge, reading room, American Bar and garden Coach parking: Drop off and pick up at the hotel, public coach park approx. 600 m from the hotel , on request , , on request , ,- Single room suppl. 69,- 4* Hotel Metropol Diano Marina Fantastic location with wonderful sea views Lovely outdoor pool Excellent peer reviews Location: Just 5 minutes walk from the promenade and 10 minutes from the town centre Rooms: 57 rooms with hairdryer, telephone, satellite TV, safe, minibar and air-conditioning Facilities: Lift, bar, restaurant, lounge, swimming pool, sun-terrace, park and private beach (reached by steps or shuttle-bus) Coach parking: At the hotel , , , , on request , ,- Single room suppl. 39,- ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERA 25

26 6 days from only 224,- TUSCANY In the cradle of the Renaissance Glorious medieval works of Art in magnificent settings Professional English-speaking city guides Headphone sets provided throughout the tour Florence, Pisa, Lucca and Siena in one tour 1 Arrival Check-in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 2 Florence, the capital city of the Renaissance No Renaissance tour of Italy is complete without visiting Florence. Admire the Cathedral with the Campanile and Baptistery, the Palazzo Vecchio, overlooking the Piazza della Signoria with the famous Statue of David by Michelangelo. Suitably inspired by all these masterpieces, you will also have time to admire the jewellery shops on the Ponte Vecchio or to enjoy an Italian espresso. 3 Pisa and Lucca Today s first stop is in Pisa, taking in the impressive Cathedral, Baptistery and of course the famous Leaning Tower, Pisa s iconic signature building (admission extra). We continue to Lucca, birthplace of Puccini, also known as the City of 100 Churches Tuscany s Open Air Museum. 4 Day at leisure or excursion to San Gimignano and Volterra Our first highlight of the day is San Gimignano, whose towers can be seen from far away, giving rise to its alternative name Medieval Manhattan. A guided tour explains the fascinating history of the competing families and of the buildings remaining to this day. We then proceed to the alabaster town of Volterra. This walled, elevated town and former Etruscan settlement, offers a splendid view of its surroundings. We visit a traditional alabaster workshop. 2 hours guided tour in Volterra 130,- 2 hours guided tour in San Gimignano 140,- Visit to an Alabaster workshop free of charge (reservation recommended) Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at the chosen hotel 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course dinner 3 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x traditional Tuscan dinner Salad buffet with all dinners 1 x 3 hour guided tour of Florence 1 x 2 hour guided tour of Lucca 1 x 2 hour guided tour of Pisa 1 x full-day tour escort for Siena and the Chianti Valley 1 x 3 hour guided tour of Siena 1 x wine tasting with snack in the Chianti Valley Headphone sets throughout the tour 5 Siena and the Chianti Valley with wine tasting This morning we discover Siena, famous for the Piazza del Campo, the seashell-shaped square, on which the famous bareback Palio horserace the takes place every year. In the afternoon we proceed into the Chianti Valley. This hilly landscape, interspersed with olive groves, cypresses, vineyards and palaces, seduces all visitors. A wine tasting with snack rounds off our day. 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Contact us for a wider hotel 26 CLASSIC

27 4* Hotel Tuscany Inn Montecatini Terme No Montecatini coach permit is required at this hotel Price includes patrolled coach park directly adjacent to the hotel Visit Florence by train to avoid high coach entrance fees Location: In Montecatini Terme, just a few minutes walk from the centre and train station. 35 minutes by coach from Florence and approx. 1 hour from the Chianti Valley Rooms: 90 rooms with LCD satellite TV, safe, internet-connection, minibar, air conditioning and hairdryer Facilities: Restaurant, bar, panoramic terrace, events and meeting rooms and adjacent fitness club with sauna (special rates apply for hotel guests) Coach parking: Private, next to the hotel ** 224, , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 84,- **No single supplement on these dates 4* Hotel Villa delle Rose Pescia by Montecatini Terme Stately hotel with park and swimming pool Typical Tuscan cuisine Visit Florence by train to avoid high coach entrance fees Location: Strategic position in the Tuscan countryside. Florence, Pisa, Montecatini Terme and the Versilia Coast are all easily reached by train. The station is just 10 minutes walk from the hotel. Rooms: 103 rooms each with telephone, air-conditioning, minibar and satellite TV Facilities: Sun-terrace, swimming pool (seasonal), WiFi, and conference and meeting rooms Coach parking: At the hotel ** 224, , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 89,- **No single supplement on these dates 3*s Hotel Suisse Marina di Pietrasanta Close to both the pedestrianised area and beach Hotel with pool No single supplement , , on request , ,- Location: Approx. 3 minutes walk from the beach and closer still to the pedestrianised area and town centre of Marina di Pietrasanta Rooms: 52 rooms with safe, hairdryer, satellite TV, air conditioning and minibar on request Facilities: Restaurant, large lounge, free WiFi, reading room, lift, outside pool with sun terrace Coach parking: Approx. 250m from Hotel (parking charges settled by the hotel) No single room supplement TUSCANY 27

28 5 days from only 149,- ROME Eternal Rome An inspiring journey through history Wide range of hotels for all types of groups Headphone sets provided throughout the tour Michelangelo staff based in the city 1 Arrival Check-in to your hotel. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 2 Ancient and Classical Rome This morning we will see the remains of the great Roman era up close, before ascending Palatine Hill to admire the Imperial Palace complex. Next we pass the Colosseum, before heading to the Piazza Venezia. In the afternoon you will experience Classical Rome first-hand, walking to the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and the Pantheon. The tour ends at the beautiful Piazza Navona. 3 Christian Rome Our morning visit is to the very heart of Christianity as we visit St. Peter s Basilica, the largest church in the Christian world with its precious adornments. As a crowning finish, we will ascend the dome of St. Peter s Basilica to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Eternal City (optional). Afternoon at leisure to explore the Vatican surroundings on your own, or to pay a visit to the world famous Museums. 4 Day at leisure or excursion to the Alban hills with wine tasting Today we look forward to the picturesque scenery of the Alban Hills, passing by Lake Albano to the town of Castel Gandolfo, known for its Papal Palace, which is used as a summer residence. The next stop is Frascati, famous for its white wine. The town has been a favorite summer retreat of the Romans since the Renaissance. We will end this eventful day with a wine tasting with rustic snacks. Full-day tour escort for the excursion to Alban Hills 240,- Wine tasting with snacks in Frascati 16,- Inclusions 4 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at the chosen hotel 1 x 6 hour city guide for Ancient and Classical 1 x 3 hour city guide for Christian Rome Headphone sets throughout the tour Organisation of entry-permits for your coach on request. Public transportation passes (1 day or more) available on request. 5 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Contact us for a wider hotel selections. 28 CLASSIC

29 4* Hotel Victoria Roma Central, near Via Veneto Boutique hotel in a historic building Panoramic rooftop terrace Close to Rome s most exclusive shopping district Walking distances (all information approximate) Via Veneto Villa Borghese Trevi Fountain Metro station Spagna min. min. min. min , , , , ,- Location: Off Via Veneto in the historical centre of Rome, in a quiet area and across the street from the Park of Villa Borghese Rooms: 111 rooms featuring classic décor with hairdryer, sat-tv, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and safe Facilities: Elegant halls, a 1950-style bar, panoramic rooftop terrace, 2 meeting rooms Coach parking: Drop off and pick up at the hotel, coaches park at Gianicolo park (extra charge) Single room suppl. 159,- Extra nights on request 4* Hotel Milton Central, near Colosseum Just 10 minutes walk to the Colosseum Metro station Manzoni directly in front of the hotel Most of the main monuments accessible on foot Walking distances (all information approximate) Metro station Manzoni Colosseum St. John s Basilica St. Maria Maggiore Basilica min. min. min. min , , , , ,- Location: Superb location near the Colosseum and the Basilica S. Maria Maggiore, ideal both for coach or public transport access Rooms: All 96 rooms have telephone, hairdryer, minibar, safe, satellite and Pay-TV, air-conditioning and internet-connection Facilities: Restaurant, bar, lift Coach parking: Drop-off and pick-up at the hotel, coach parking is near the Termini Station (extra charge) Double room for single use suppl. 184,- Extra nights on request 3* Hotel Cilicia Central, near the Caracalla Baths Good standard half board arrangement included Private coach parking at the hotel Walking distances (all information approximate) ** Metro station San Giovanni St. John s Basilica Circus Maximus Termini rail station min. min. min. min , , , , ,- Location: Close to the centre, set in a quiet area with a private garden Rooms: The 62 rooms are classically style with elegant furnishings, equipped with air-conditioning, safe, sat-tv, hairdryer, minibar and free Wi-Fi Facilities: Bar, hall private garden, restaurant, lift, conference room, free WiFi Coach parking: At the hotel (free of charge) Transport link: 400 m to the bus station, 15 minutes walk to San Giovanni underground **4 x 3-course dinners included Single room suppl. 89,- Extra nights on request Half-board Included ROME 29

30 4* Grand Hotel Tiberio Vatican area Just 20 minutes walk to the Vatican Excellent peer reviews Excellent value for money Walking distances (all information approximate) Metro station Cipro Vatican Museums Castel Sant Angelo Piazza Navona min. min. min. min , , , , ,- Location: 1.6 km from the Vatican Museums and St. Peter s Square Rooms: 91 rooms with hairdryer, sat-tv, Wi-Fi, minibar, air-conditioning and safe Facilities: Elegant hall with bar, TV-room, restaurant, 3 conference rooms, nice terrace with views out to St. Peters Dome Coach parking: Coaches up to 12 m long may drop off and picked up at the hotel, coach parking is at Gianicolo or at the Olympic Stadium (extra charge) Double room for single use suppl. 134,- Extra nights on request 4* Green Park Hotel Pamphili Vatican area Just 15 minutes drive from the Vatican Private chapel inside the hotel Private coach parking free of charge Relevant distances (all information approximate) Metro station Cornelia Vatican Piazza Navona Trastevere km km km km , , , , ,- Location: Situated in a peaceful park around 5 km from the Vatican Rooms: 153 rooms with hairdryer, phone, sat-tv, air-conditioning and safe Facilities: Elegant restaurant, cocktail bar, small private chapel, fitness room, 4 lifts Coach parking: Free of charge at the hotel Double room for single use suppl. 109,- Half board suppl. per person per day 19,- Extra nights on request 4* Hotel San Paolo Roma Trastevere area Newly renovated January 2016 Superb location, adjacent to the Basilica St. Paul Outside the Walls Metro station just 200 m from the hotel Relevant distances (all information approximate) Metro Station San Paolo Trastevere Colosseum Piazza Navona m km km km , , , , ,- Location: Just 200 m from San Paolo metro station and 4 stops from the Colosseum Rooms: 65 recently renovated rooms with air conditioning, central heating, flat screen TV, telephone, safe, minibar, hairdryer, kettle and free WiFi Facilities: Bar, breakfast room, lift, TV area, internet point and restaurant Coach parking: Pick up and drop off at the hotel. Coaches park at Park Colombo, 3 km from the hotel. Shuttle bus option to/from hotel (extra charges apply). Double room for single use suppl. 109,- Half board suppl. per person per day 19,- Extra nights on request 30 ROME

31 GUSTO FOOD & WINE page 32 PIEDMONT 33 LAKE GARDA 34 VENETO 35 EMILIA ROMAGNA 36 TUSCANY

32 6 days from only 349,- PIEDMONT Eat and Drink like a King in Royal Piedmont Spumante tasting in an Underground Cathedral Vineyard landscapes A real truffle hunt experience 1 Arrival Check- in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 2 Langhe and wine tasting Today we discover the Langhe, one of the world s most famous wine growing regions. Our first stop is La Morra, which offers breathtaking views, before continuing on to the Barolo wine region. The small town of Barolo is a real masterpiece. A walk to the castle and the visit of the WiMu (Winemusem) can not be missed. No visit here would be complete without a stop at a winery to sample the excellent wines. Gusto of the day: Barolo wine tasting 3 Turin with a Bicerin A city tour of Turin will reveal the Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Madama, and the the San Lorenzo church. Afterwards we will have time to wander in the historic Baroque district. The Mole Antonelliana, once a Jewish Synagogue and now home to the Italian Film Museum, is particularly worthy of a visit. To round the day off, we will enjoy a stop for a Bicerin a traditional Turinese chocolate coffee drink. Gusto of the day: Chocolate coffee Bicerin 4 Asti and Canelli - Home of Asti Spumante Our tour today starts in Asti. A stroll through the historic district will convey the magic of this place. It is the centre of the Monferrato wine growing region, where the gentle Moscato and Barbera d Asti grapes are grown. Our next stop is the small town of Canelli. Many traditional wineries, also known as Underground Cathedrals, are located here. We will visit one of these cellars and will sample the local produce during a Spumante tasting. Gusto of the day: Asti Spumante 5 Alba and Truffle hunt Alba, the city of the white truffle, is located on the northern edge of this enchanting area. We will visit the historical centre, City Hall and Cathedral. This afternoon you will enjoy a unique experience that will live long in the memory, as we take a guided tour of the natural truffle grounds, before experiencing a real truffle hunt, following along a scenic trail with rest areas. A tasting of truffle based products with fine local wines completes this tour. Gusto of the day: Truffle Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a 4* Hotel in the Langhe area 4 x 4-course dinner 1 x typical 4-course dinner 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to the Langhe 1 x visit to a winery in Barolo including tasting 1 x admission to the Wine Museum 1 x full day guided tour in Turin 1 x classic Bicerin drink 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Asti and Canelli 1 x visit to an underground cathedral for a Spumante tasting 1 x full day tour escort for Alba and the truffle hunt 1 x truffle hunt with tasting of truffle based products , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 109,- 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. 32 GUSTO - PIEDMONT

33 6 days from only 264,- LAKE GARDA Pizza, Pasta & Tortellini A celebration of Italian Cuisine Visit cities of Art and enjoy magnificent landscapes Wine experience in Valpolicella and oil mill on the lake Enjoy the best known Italian signature dishes 1 Arrival Check- in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. 2 Romantic Verona with Valpolicella wine tasting Guided tour of Verona, inspiration for Shakespeare s Romeo and Juliet, and one of the most important art sites in the Veneto region. Enjoy a little shopping in the Via Mazzini, surrounded by history, and modern life. Drive on to the famous wine region of Valpolicella for visit to a wine cellar and delicious tasting of the wonderfully rich red Amarone wine. Gusto of the day: Amarone wine tasting 3 Lake Garda with pizza and and visit to an oil mill Discover picturesque Lake Garda, including visit to gorgeous Sirmione. We enjoy our lunch with another delicious Italian speciality, pizza, one of the most popular dishes worldwide. Learn all about extra virgin olive oil in Bardolino with a visit to an oil mill, where this precious enjoys DOP status. You will discover why it is so important to Mediterranean cooking and will enjoy a tasting along with typical local snacks of the area. Gusto of the day: Pizza and olive oil 4 Mantua with Torellini You head further south to Mantua, which has hardly changed since the Middle Ages. Discover the idyllic hamlet of Valeggio sul Mincio whose impressive 13th Century castle is visible from miles away. Famous for its tortellini, we will get the chance to taste this meat filled pasta dish. Gusto of the day: Handmade Tortellini 5 The alpine atmosphere of Trento and Grappa tasting Experience the historical centre of Trento, taking in the impressive Castle and Cathedral and typical palazzi of this unique Alpine city of art. Learn all about grappa at the specialist Marzadro family-run distlillery. An award winning range of different drinks using locally sourced ingredients has been created over 3 generations. Enjoy a tasting to round off the visit. Gusto of the day: Grappa 6 Departure COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a good 3*/4* Hotel on Lake Garda 1 x 3 course dinner 4 x 3 course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Verona and Valpolicella 1 x 2 hour city guided in Verona 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion on Lake Garda 1 x Pizza lunch in Sirmione 1 x visit and tasting at an olive mill 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Verona and Valeggio 1 x 2 hour city guided in Mantua 1 x Tortellini meal in Valeggio including ¼l wine and ½l water 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Trento 1 x 2 hour city guided in Trento 1 x Grappa tasting at the Marzadro local brewery , , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 109,- GUSTO - LAKE GARDA 33

34 6 days from only 269,- VENETO & FRIULI The sparkling corner of Italy Tasty dishes and the incomparable city of Venice Enjoy Prosecco and Grappa tastings Learn about and sample the famous San Daniele ham Visit Venice and the fascinating historical cities of North East Italy 1 Arrival Check- in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. 2 Treviso and the Prosecco Wine Road We begin with a visit to the pretty little city of Treviso. We will see the San Pietro Cathedral and the San Nicolò Church, which is one of the most impressive examples of Italian red brick Gothic architecture. We continue on along the Prosecco Wine Road, starting from Conegliano and following the gentle hills adorned with lush vineyards to Valdobbiadene. A visit to a local winery will teach us how the increasingly popular sparkling Prosecco wine is produced. Gusto of the day: Prosecco sparkling wine 3 Udine and San Daniele ham We travel today to Udine, where we visit interesting sights including the impressive Cathedral and Piazza della Libertà the oldest square in the town. We then make our way to San Daniele, which is famous for its delicate prosciutto ham. We will visit a producer to find out how it is cured and worked until ready to eat, before you have the chance to sample the tasty product. Gusto of the day: San Daniele Ham 4 Venice and Pasta party Welcome to Venice! In the morning a guided walking tour will introduce us to Venice s main attractions. St. Mark s Square and Basilica, the Doge s Palace, Grand Canal, and Rialto Bridge, all provide memorable photo opportunities before getting to know those areas of hidden Venice which most tourists pass by. Back in our hotel after a memorable day, we will enjoy an Italian pasta party. Gusto of the day: Pasta party 5 Vicenza and Bassano with Grappa tasting Vicenza is the city of the famous architect Andrea Palladio. He created many public buildings, private villas and palaces, which have earned the city centre UNESCO World Heritage status. A guided tour will showcase the city s most important sights. In the afternoon, we make our way to Bassano del Grappa, famous for its stately covered wooden bridge over the River Brenta. The town is also famous for its Nardini grappa distillery which has been producing this grape based spirit since A visit will explain the production and history of this famous Italian drink on this site. Gusto of the day: Nardini distillery and Grappa tasting 6 Departure COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a 4* Hotel in Lido di Jesolo 1 x 3-course dinner 3 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x Pasta party incl. ¼l wine and ½l water 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x full day tour escort for Treviso and the Prosecco Wine Road 1 x visit to a winery with Prosecco tasting and snacks 1 x full day tour escort for Udine and San Daniele 1 x ham tasting in San Daniele 1 x full day tour escort to Venice 1 x 2 hour city guide in Venice 1 x round trip boat ride from Punta Sabbioni to Venice 1 x full day tour escort for Vicenza and Bassano del Grappa 1 x visit to the Nardini Distillery including Grappa tasting ** 269, , , , , , , , , , ** 269,- Single room suppl. 84,- **No single supplement on these dates 34 GUSTO - VENETO & FRIULI

35 6 days from only 329,- EMILIA ROMAGNA Italy s delicious heart An authentic journey through the Italian culinary roots Balsamic vinegar Parma ham & Lambrusco wine tasting Bologna s gourmet flair 1 Arrival Check- in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 2 Modena, Balsamic vinegar and Ferrari Museum We visit Modena today, not only the spiritual home of Ferrari sports cars but also a town of wide arcaded streets and large squares, Cathedral, and Ghirlandia Tower. We continue on to Maranello to visit the famous Ferrari Museum. We visit a balsamic vinegar cellar to learn all about tradition and production techniques. Gusto of the day: Balsamic vinegar tasting 3 The Salt works of Cervia and Ravenna Mosaics This morning we head east to the Adriatic coast and the city of Cervia. We will learn all about the history and production techniques used today to create a range of different salts through a guided tour of the saltworks. We will then enjoy a lunch break at a rustic restaurant with a dish of Spaghetti alla Marinara (with tasty mussels) and a glass of white wine. In the afternoon we head to Ravenna, which offers some of the best city sightseeing in Italy. Explore the most important architectural monuments from the Gothic and Byzantine eras, including the Galla Placidia Mausoleum with its splendid mosaics (entrance fee not included). Gusto of the day: The sweet salt of Cervia and Spaghetti "alla marinara" 4 Bologna & Dozza with wine tasting Bologna has one of the most beautiful and best preserved historic districts in Europe. Guided tour through the old University City, known for the Asinelli and Garisenda towers, the San Petronio Basilica and the Neptune Fountain. In the afternoon visit the medieval village of Dozza, with its castle and archetypal decorated houses. This area is known for the production of Lambrusco and we will end our day with a visit to a winery to sample the wine. Gusto of the day: Lambrusco tasting 5 Parma with Prosciutto tasting The former royal city of Parma offers magnificent buildings including the Palazzo Ducale built along French lines, the wooden Teatro Farnese and the Cathedral s Baptistery. We then drive to Langhirano, at the heart of Parma Ham country, where we discover all about the production of one of Italy s most recognisable food products. Gusto of the day: Parma ham Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a 4* Hotel in the heart of Emilia Romagna 1 x 3-course dinner 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 2 hour city guide in Modena 1 x entrance fee to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello 1 x balsamic vinegar tasting in Modena 1 x guided tour of the Cervia salt works 1 x lunch break with Spaghetti "alla marinara" and a glass of white wine 1 x 2 hour city guide in Ravenna 1 x 2 hour city guide in Bologna 1 x Lambrusco wine tasting in Dozza 1 x 2 hour city guide in Parma 1 x tasting of genuine Parma ham , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 109,- 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. GUSTO - EMILIA ROMAGNA 35

36 6 days from only 309,- TUSCANY Tasty Tuscany A Feast for the Senses Learn to cook like an Italian Taste great wines Enjoy a Pasta party 1 Arrival Check- in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. 2 Cooking class and Lucca Visit a traditional farmhouse to learn how to hand-make pasta, prepare a traditional sauce and local crostini. Enjoy your self-made Italian lunch together at the end of this funny hands-on morning! An interesting visit of the farmhouse follows, rounded off by wine and locally produced olive oil tasting. In the afternoon we visit Lucca, the birthplace of Puccini, also known as the city of 100 churches. Gusto of the day: Cooking class with regional specialties 3 Siena and Chianti Wine This morning we discover Siena, famous for the Piazza del Campo, the seashell-shaped square, on which the famous bareback horse race, the Palio takes place each year. In the afternoon we proceed into the Chianti Valley. This hilly landscape, interspersed with olive groves, cypresses, vineyards and palaces, seduces all visitors. A wine tasting with snack rounds off our day. Gusto of the day: Chianti wine 4 Florence by train (no coach required) From Montecatini we will travel to Florence by train. Admire the Cathedral with the Campanile and Baptistery, and the Palazzo Vecchio, overlooking the Piazza della Signoria with the famous copy of Michelangelo s Statue of David. During the day we will sample famous Cantucci (cookies) soaked in delicious Vinsanto (sweet wine). Gusto of the day: Cantucci and Vinsanto 5 Vinci and Lari Europe s smallest pasta company We start the day with a visit to the medieval village of Vinci, named after its most famous son, Leonardo. We continue on to the picturesque village of Lari in the Pisan hills to visit Europe s smallest and most authentic pasta factory, owned and run by the Martelli family since Learn all about this product as it is transformed from grain to the shop shelves. Gusto of the day: Pasta factory 6 Departure COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a 4* Hotel in Montecatini 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x Pasta party incl. ¼l wine and ½l water 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x full day tour escort for the cooking class and Lucca 1 x cooking class in a tourist farm house with lunch 1 x 2 hour city guide in Lucca 1 x full day tour escort for Siena and the Chianti Valley 1 x 2 hour city guide in Siena 1 x visit and wine tasting in a local cellar 1 x return train ticket to Florence 1 x full day tour escort from the hotel for the excursion in Florence 1 x 3 hour city guided in Florence 1 x tasting of Cantucci and Vinsanto 1 x full day tour escort for Vinci and Lari 1 x visit of the Europe s smallest and most authentic pasta factory ** 309, , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 84,- **No single supplement on these dates 36 GUSTO - TUSCANY

37 page 38 LAKE GARDA E-Bike 39 TUSCANY E-Bike 40 LAKE GARDA Hiking 41 CINQUE TERRE Hiking 42 AMALFI COAST Hiking 44 SICILY Hiking 46 SARDINIA Hiking

38 6 days from only 364,- LAKE GARDA Lake Garda s cycling nirvana Explore the most beautiful destinations by Ideally located hotels with hearty meal provision Daily picnic lunches included Discover gorgeous lakes and lofty peaks with minimal effort 1 Arrival Check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight. 2 Explore the River Sarca cycleways Bike trip into the Sarca Valley passing by the picturesque town of Arco and continuing north into the lunar landscape of the Marocche. Visit to a winery for a snack. We return back via Lake Cavedine, whose clear waters reflect the surrounding mountain sides. 450 m 45 km 3 Monte Baldo and Malcesine Enjoy a cycle excursion around the slopes of Monte Baldo surrounding Malcesine, allowing you to enjoy wonderful views of the lake. Pizza meal in Malcesine. Free time in Malcesine before returning back home by boat. 400 m 35 km 4 Through gentle vineyards to stunning Castel Pietra Today s excursion takes us into the northern hinterland of Lake Garda along the Isera Wine Route. After leaving Rovereto behind us we come to Castel Pietra for a tour of the castle followed by a snack with wine tasting. 350 m 60 km 5 Gorgeous Lake Tenno and medieval villages Today we head to the emerald green waters of Lake Tenno which sits some 600m above Lake Garda. We will visit the mountain village of Canale, voted one of the 100 best places in Italy. Enjoy a picnic with typical local produce in a tuckrd away little farmhouse. 600 m 40 km 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a good 3*/4* Hotel at the northern end of Lake Garda (Riva or Torbole) 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course dinner (on arrival day) 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course Salad buffet with all dinners 1 x visit to a winery with a snack 1 x pizza meal in Malcesine 1 x boat trip from Malcesine to Torbole/Riva 1 x viewing of Castel Pietra with a snack on the ramparts 1 x picnic around Lake Tenno 4 x days English speaking bike guide E bike hire included throughout Bike transfers as per programme , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 89,- Rates valid from only 15 paying guests 38 ACTIVO - E BIKE - LAKE GARDA

39 6 days from only 529,- TUSCANY Leisurely Chiantishire Tackle the Tuscan hills with ease on an Learn about truffles, alabaster and medieval rivalries Discover the hilly landscape of Chiantishire in comfort Experience Siena, Volterra and San Gimignano in one trip 1 Arrival Check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight. 2 Monteriggioni and Siena, the famous town of the Palio We will make our way to the small walled village of Monteriggioni and take a break to explore. Gain an insight into the local rivalries which are at the heart of the dramatic bareback horse race, the Palio, during a fascinating guided tour of this historic town. 470 m 38 km 3 Certaldo and San Gimignano s Medieval Manhattan A picture postcard day as we make our way past Tuscany s classic tall cypresses, sleepy vineyards, country houses, castles and medieval villages on our way to San Gimignano. Interesting stroll around the town of tall medieval towers with our cycle guide. Enjoy a refreshing ice cream in the reknowned Gelateria Dondoli. 650 m 50 km 4 The alabaster town of Volterra and a hunt for truffles Guided tour in the wonderful town of Volterra which lies on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside and which is famed for its alabaster workshops. Our cycle tour passes through the impressive Balze region, where wind and weather erosion has shaped the land creating a unique and very bizarre lansdcape. We will then learn all about the secrets of the truffle during a two hour walk around a local country estate, before we enjoy an excellent and tasty snack from locally sourced organic products. 410 m 30 km 5 Undiscovered Chianti and the Vicchiomaggio Castle We learn all about the hilly Chianti countryide in comfort as we tour on our e-bikes, getting to know its secret tucked away little places and dreamy villages. We will finally get the chance to sample the world famous fruits of the winzer s labour with a Chianti wine tasting at the Vicchiomaggio Castle. Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a good 4* Hotel in the Chianti area 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course dinner 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x 2 hour guided tour of Siena 1 x ice cream in the Gelateria Dondoli 1 x truffle hunt with organic snacks 1 x 2 hour guided tour of Volterra 1 x wine tasting at Vicchiomaggio Castle 4 x days English speaking cycle guide E bike hire included throughout Bike transfers as per programme , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 89,- Rates valid from only 15 paying guests 700 m 50 km 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. ACTIVO - E BIKE - TUSCANY 39

40 6 days from only 284,- LAKE GARDA The northern shores of Lake Garda Hiking amongst Alpine peaks and Mediterranean flora Breathtaking views Culinary experiences Cable car trip up Monte Baldo 1 Arrival Check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight. 2 Limone and its secrets Approach Limone by boat from Riva. A walk along the lake promenade and up to the San Giovanni creek takes us to an oil mill for a visit. We pass the church of the Missionary Daniele Comboni before arriving at the La Milanesa farmhouse to enjoy the view. Back in the old town of Limone we visit a lemon garden before taking the boat back to Riva. 350 m 3 Panoramic cable car to the Monte Baldo We begin with a coach ride to Malcesine. The panoramic revolving gondola lift whisks us to the plateau of Monte Baldo at 1650m, where we start our hike. After a break in one of the mountain huts we make our way through the forest back to the cable car station where we head back to Malcesine. Free time to explore in Malcesine before returning to the hotel by coach. 400 m 4 The old Ponale Road A panoramic hike up the old Ponale Road, as it winds its way up through the gorge passing countless small tunnels leading to the Ledro Valley. Coffee break with stunning views. Last section is by coach to Lake Ledro, characterised by its deep green-blue water. 450 m 5 Lake Tenno and Medieval Canale From Passo Ballino we set out on paths towards the clear waters of Lake Tenno from where we follow the ancient mule tracks to Canale. Here, we will enjoy a picnic with typical local produce at a unique location before continuing to Tenno Castle. You can go back to Riva del Garda by foot or by coach. Upon arrival we have time to explore the town before returning to the hotel. 400 m 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. 2.5 h 3 h 3.5 h 4 h Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a good 3*/4* Hotel in the Northern Lake Garda 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course dinner 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course Salad buffet with all dinners 1 x round trip boat journey from Riva del Garda to Limone 1 x visit to an olive oil press 1 x visit to a lemon garden 1 x return cable car trip from Malcesine to Monte Baldo 1 x coffee break with stunning views 1 x picnic near Lake Tenno 4 x days English speaking hiking tour guide 1 Pair of ACTIVO hiking poles , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 89,- Rates valid from only 15 paying guests 40 ACTIVO - HIKING - LAKE GARDA

41 6 days from only 349,- CINQUE TERRE Cinque Terre: hikers paradise Explore the Riviera del Levante Extremely popular destination with hikers Culinary hike with pesto making class Boat ride to Portofino 1 Arrival Check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight. 2 Punta Manara and Pesto-making class Our panoramic hiking tour starts in Sestri Levante, brings us then through the Mediterranean macchia and finally to the Punta Manara headland, a panoramic view point of the Gulf of Tigullio. We continue to Riva Trigoso and via Monte Castello back to Sestri Levante where we immerse ourselves in the art of pesto-making. 350m 3 Hiking Santa Margherita, Portofino and San Fruttuoso Today we start at Camogli, from where we travel by boat to the small bay of San Fruttuoso. Our hiking tour takes us to the world famous resort of Portofino. We enjoy this elegant town before making our way to Santa Margherita by boat. Return trip to the hotel by coach. 450m 4 The Magic of the Cinque Terre From Levanto we reach Corniglia by train before making our way on foot to Vernazza (90 mins). From Vernazza we head uphill and arrive about 2 hours later in Monterosso. After a stroll through the old streets we return to Levanto by train. 550m This hike involves mostly narrow, rocky paths and stone steps. Sure-footedness and a strong head for heights are required between Monterosso and Vernazza. If required, the route can be altered to include a train trip from Monterosso to Vernazza. 5 Urban trekking Discovering The secret heart of Genoa Today we discover the city of Genoa from a different perspective, as we visit the famous Caruggi (narrow streets) of Genoa s Old Town and discover the hidden beating heart of this historic city. We visit a typical local eatery to sample some of the tasty local delicacies. minimal 6 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. 3 h 4 h 4 h 2 h Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a good 3* Hotel in Chiavari 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course dinner 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x pesto-making lesson including a dish of pasta and 1 glass of wine 1 x boat trip from Camogli - San Fruttuoso and Portofino - Santa Margherita 1 x train ride Levanto - Corniglia and Monterosso - Levanto 1 x entrance ticket to the Cinque Terre Park 1 x 3 hour guided tour in Genoa 1 x light lunch with typical products in the historic centre 3 x days English speaking hiking tour guide 1 Pair of ACTIVO hiking poles , on request , , on request , ,- Single room suppl. 99,- Rates valid from only 15 paying guests ACTIVO - HIKING - CINQUE TERRE 41

42 AMALFI COAST Walking the Amalfi coast Heavenly hiking paths in the shadow of Vesuvius Hiking along the Path of Gods with breathtaking views Experience stunning Capri Pizza making class 1 Arrival on the Amalfi Coast Check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight. 2 The Sunshine Isle of Capri Today s trip take us to Capri. We hike to the most beautiful corner of the island amongst caves and rocky outcrops offering an amazing view of the Faraglioni cliffs. 300 m 4 h 3 Baia di Ieranto Today we discover the bays which characterise the Sorrento peninsula. In the Baia di Ieranto we enjoy a refreshing break in a stunningly beautiful bay. 180 m 3.5 h 4 The Path of the Gods A walking tour along the famous Path of the Gods is a must for every hiker. Breathtaking views on the Amalfi Coast and the Island of Capri awaits you. In Nocelle we enjoy a snack with classical regional produce on a panoramic terrace. 350 m 5 h 42 ACTIVO - HIKING

43 8 days from only 699,- Inclusions 5 Day at leisure 6 Vesuvius and wine tasting After meeting our volcanologist guide we start our hike around the crater. We reach the rim of the crater until we return to our starting point. On our way back we enjoy a tasting of the famous Lacryma Christi wine. This hike is not recommended for people suffering from asthma or spells of dizziness. 7 Culinary hiking to Sorrento We start our hike directly in Schiazzano, here Francesco will tell us all about how to prepare pizza this delicious dish. In the afternoon we continue our hike to the heavenly resort of Sorrento. 8 Departure 300 m 380 m The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. 3.5 h 5 h 7 x night accommodation with buffet breakfast at a 4* Hotel on the Sorrento Peninsula 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x 3-course dinner 6 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course Salad buffet with all dinners Airport assistance on arrival/departure in Naples Private coach hire as per the itinerary (airport transfers included) 1 x excursion to Island of Capri (incl. boat trip to/from Sorrento and transfers to the Piazzetta on Capri) 1 x packed lunch 1 x snacks with classical local produce 1 x wine tasting of Lacryma Christi 1 x entrance to Vesuvius National Park 1 x pizza cooking course with lunch 5 x days English speaking hiking tour guide 1 Pair of ACTIVO hiking poles , , , , on request , ,- Single room suppl. 119,- Rates valid from only 15 paying guests LOCAL COACH HIRE INCLUDED Ask us for inclusive flight package rates AMALFI COAST 43

44 SICILY Aeolian Island Hopping Feel the power and beauty of nature See Stromboli and experience the spectacle of an eruption All boat trips included Taormina and Mt. Etna 1 Arrival in Sicily Check-in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. 2 In the footsteps of The Godfather and Taormina Our first hike starts in Forza d Agrò and takes us to Savoca. It was here where the first scenes of The Godfather with Marlon Brando were filmed. In Taormina, we browse through the charming narrow streets and take a glimpse of the famous Greek-Roma Theatre. At the end of the day we drive to Milazzo and board the ferry to Lipari. 300 m 3 h 3 Lipari: Queen of the Aeolian Islands Today we discover Lipari island. Our hiking path leads us along the pyroclastic rocks of Timpone Pataso towards the ancient thermal baths of San Calogero. The last part of the trail takes us in to Pianoconte where we enjoy an amazing view out to Vulcano Island. 450 m 3.5 h 4 Stromboli at sunset In the afternoon we take a boat trip to the island of Stromboli. The hike takes us to the observatory following a route which makes its way up the flanks of the volcano. Here we can observe the Sciara del Fuoco, an incredible spectacle of flowing lava. A pasta dinner with appetizers will be provided back on the boat. 350 m 3 h 44 ACTIVO - HIKING

45 8 days from only 734,- 5 Vulcano Island Today we discover Vulcano. We will ascend to the top of the crater and experience the fumarole air streams. After making our descent we either bathe in one of the famous hot Sulphur springs (extra fee payable) or spend some leisure time on the black sand beach. 6 Salina Island This morning we board a ship to Salina, the most luxuriant among the Aeolian Islands. A visit to Monte Fossa, is a must and a highlight for all hikers. Starting from Valdichiesa we will reach the top of the extinct volcano. 7 Incredible Mt. Etna Today we leave the Aeolian Islands, and return to Sicily to scale Europe s tallest active volcano Mt. Etna. We hike at an altitude of 1.900m around the impressive scenery of the Silvestri Craters. Before reaching our hotel we stop for a wine tasting. 8 Departure 350 m 350 m The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. 3 h 3 h 250 m 2 h Inclusions 2 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* Hotel in the Taormina area 5 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* Hotel in Lipari 7 x buffet breakfast 5 x 3-course dinner 1 x Sicilian farewell dinner 1 x welcome cocktail Airport assistance on arrival/departure in Catania Private coach hire as per the itinerary (airport transfers included) 1 x return boat trip from Milazzo to Lipari Round trip boat transfers from Lipari to Vulcano, Salina and Stromboli 1 x pasta dish with appetizers on return boat transfer from Stromboli 1 x wine tasting with snack at the foot of Etna 6 x days English speaking hiking tour guide 1 pair of ACTIVO hiking poles , , , , on request , ,- Single room suppl. 99,- Rates valid from only 15 paying guests LOCAL COACH HIRE INCLUDED Ask us for inclusive flight package rates SICILY 45

46 SARDINIA The striking contrasts of Sardinia Explore the wild and beautiful coastline Panoramic hike along the Emerald Coast Includes boat trip to the island of La Maddalena and Caprera Enjoy a French escape in Corsica 1 Arrival on Sardinia Check-in to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. 2 Beach hike along the Emerald Coast You will certainly get the feeling you are in the Caribbean as we walk from bay to bay with aquamarine sea lapping the famous beaches of the Emerald coast, until we reach the glitzy resort of Porto Cervo. Enjoy a wine tasting with snacks. minimal 3 h 3 Isola Rossa and Castelsardo We will hike from the Saracen s Tower in a small fishing village on the north coast following stony tracks to Cape Li Canneddi. Visit Castelsardo after a tasting of the Sardinian myrtle liqueur, Mirto Rosso. 180 m 3 h 4 Corsica with cliff walk in Bonifacio Take the ferry from Santa Teresa di Gallura to Bonifacio on Corsica and enjoy a stroll through the town. The coastal walk along the white cliffs at the southern end of the island promises stunning views. minimal 2 h 46 ACTIVO - HIKING

47 8 days from only 619,- Inclusions 7 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a 4* Hotel in Palau 1 x 3-course dinner 6 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x welcome cocktail 5 Day at leisure 6 La Maddalena archipelago - Hiking on Caprera island We take a boat today to the Island of Caprera in the La Maddalena archipelago. Our route will take in narrow sandy paths to the gorgeous Bay of Cala Napolitana. We will take a break for refreshment in the picturesque fishing village of La Maddalena. 7 Capo Testa s Bizarre rock formations View and even climb the impressive granite boulders which are strewn as if they were on the moon. This is a landscape like no other and will surely be a real highlight. We return to the hotel after a stroll through Santa Teresa. Surefootedness and sturdy footwear essential 8 Departure 140 m 150 m The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. 3 h 3 h Airport assistance on arrival/departure in Olbia Private coach hire as per the itinerary (airport transfers included) 1 x wine tasting with snack 1 x myrtle liqueur tasting 1 x round trip ferry crossing from Santa Teresa di Gallura - Bonifacio 1 x boat trip to the island of Caprera in the La Maddalena archipelago 5 x days English speaking hiking tour guide 1 pair of ACTIVO hiking poles , , , , on request , , ,- Single room suppl. 89,- Rates valid from only 15 paying guests LOCAL COACH HIRE INCLUDED Ask us for inclusive flight package rates SARDINIA 47

48 A cooking affair Food is Health Learn the secrets of the Mediterranean diet Culture Get closer to local traditions in Italy s most iconic regions Fun Test your skills with a hands-on cooking class Sharing Enjoy a delicious meal together with your fellow travellers, everything tastes better in good company Contact us for the best cooking experiences in exclusive locations!

49 EVENTS page 50 TUSCANY Steam Train Tour 52 TUSCANY Medieval Banquet in Certaldo 53 TUSCANY Middle Ages in Volterra 54 TUSCANY Olive harvest & Truffle fair 55 LAKE MAGGIORE Camellias in bloom 56 VENETO Carnival in Venice 57 FRENCH RIVIERA Menton & Nice Carnival 58 VENETO Arena di Verona Festival 59 TUSCANY Puccini Festival 60 TEATRO ALLA SCALA in Milan 60 GRAN TEATRO LA FENICE in Venice

50 6 days from only 299,- TUSCANY STEAMING THROUGH THE HEART OF TUSCANY TAKE A VINTAGE STEAM TRAIN THROUGH THE GLORIOUS HILLS OF THE TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE AND EXPERIENCE A REAL LOCAL VILLAGE FESTIVAL Includes steam train trip through undiscovered Tuscany Visit Tuscany and Umbria in one tour No single supplement Gain an insight into a bygone era of Tuscan life. Enjoy a trip through the unique rolling countryside on a vintage steam train and experience a genuine village festival. Each week sees a different festival hosted by a different village, each with a specific feature. A vintage train provides the historic means to discover the hidden gems of the hills surrounding Siena. Itinerary 1 (Wednesday) Arrival 2 (Thursday) Montepulciano, Bagno Vignoni and Pienza 3 (Friday) Cortona and Arezzo with typical lunch 4 (Saturday) Perugia and Assisi 5 (Sunday) Vintage steam train trip to the Festival 6 (Monday) Departure 50 EVENTS - TUSCANY

51 Inclusions 5 x overnights with buffet breakfast at a 4* hotel in Chianciano Terme 1 x welcome drink 4 x 3-course dinner Salad and vegetable buffets included for each dinner 1 x whole day tour leader service for visits to Montepulciano, Bagno Vignoni and Pienza 1 x tasting of locally produced pecorino cheese in Pienza 1 x trip by vintage steam train through the Crete Senesi 1 x visit to a village festival (venue depending on date booked) 1 x full day tour leader service for steam train trip and village festival 1 x full day tour leader service for visits to Arezzo and Cortona 1 x typical lunch in Cortona Dates and prices 2018** Val d'arbia Village Festival in Buonconvento Autumn Festival in Abbadia San Salvatore (on Saturday) Mushroom Festival in Castiglione d'orcia Olive oil Festival in Trequanda Medieval Festival in Montalcino Market Festival of the White Truffle in San Giovanni d'asso 339,- 319,- 319,- 309,- 299,- 299,- No single room supplement **2019 festivals schedule had not been released when we went to press. Contact us for details. TUSCANY 51

52 6 days from only 344,- TUSCANY ENJOY A MEDIEVAL BANQUET AND A PUCCINI CONCERT IN GLORIOUS TUSCANY Be part of a medieval banquet in Certaldo Amazing Puccini concert in Lucca s Church of San Giovanni Includes excursion to Florence by train Inclusions 5 nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a 3*/4* hotels in Montecatini Terme 3 x 3-course dinner Experience an authentic medieval banquet in the historic old town of Certaldo Alta. Long trestle tables, illuminated by torches and served by page boys and girls in period costume transport you back to the Middle Ages as you enjoy a banquet laid out with rustic terracotta tableware. Demonstrations of knights in armour and fireeaters add to the spectacle, before a firework display rounds off a wonderful evening. Itinerary 1 Arrival 2 Visit to Lari and Europe s smallest pasta factory, panoramic tour to the vineyards around Terriciola and the truffel town of San Miniato 3 Morning at leisure. Afternoon visit to San Gimiginano and onward to the Medieval Banquet in Certaldo 4 Morning at leisure. Afternoon visit to Lucca and the Puccini concert in the Church of San Giovanni in Lucca 5 Trip to Florence by train including guided tour 6 Departure for return home 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Lari, Terriciola wineyards and San Miniato 1 x visit to Europe s smallest pasta factory 1 x wine tasting with local snack in a vineyard 1 x full day tour escort for visit to San Gimignano and the medieval banquet experience in Certaldo 1 x 2 hour guided tour of San Gimignano 1 x round trip ascent with the funicular railway to Certaldo Alta 1 x Medieval banquet in Certaldo Alta including wine and fireworks 1 x full day tour escort for the trip to Luca and the Concert Puccini and his Lucca 1 x 2 hour guided tour of Lucca 1 x ticket for the Puccini concert in the San Giovanni Church in Lucca 1 x full day tour escort for the trip to Florence by train 1 x return train ticket from Montecatini Florence 1 x 3 hour guided tour in Florence Dates and prices , ,- Single room suppl. 74,- 52 EVENTS - TUSCANY

53 6 days from only 274,- TUSCANY BACK TO THE MIDDLE AGES ONCE UPON A TIME IN VOLTERRA Experience real medieval life and culture for a day Enjoy classical Pisa, San Gimignano and Florence too Volterra goes back to the year 1398 with two unforgettable settings: the town centre, with its imposing palazzi and squares, and the Archaeological Park, over which the Medici Fortress reigns. On the last two Sundays every August a medieval town comes back to life with its performances, events, tradesmen, artisans, musicians, jugglers, peasantry and nobles. A unique occasion to experience, as if by magic, medieval times in one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany. Itinerary 1 Arrival 2 Visit Pisa with its iconic Leaning Tower and the marble city of Carrara 3 San Gimignano with excellent Gelato tasting and Chianti area with wine 4 Experience the Masterpiece that is Florence 5 Back to the Middle Ages: Volterra A.D Festival 6 Departure Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast and 3-course dinner at a 3*/4* Hotel in the heart of Tuscany 1 x welcome drink 1 x full day tour guide for Pisa and Carrara 1 x visit to a marble quarry close to Carrara 1 x full day tour guide for the Chianti Tour and San Gimignano 1 x visit to a winery with wine tasting accompanied by local specialities 1 x visit to the San Gimignano1300 Museum 1 x handmade gelato in one of Italy s finest Gelateria 1 x 3 hour guided tour of Florence 1 x full day tour escort for the Volterra Festival 1 x admission to the Volterra A.D Festival Dates and prices , ,- Single room suppl. 79,- EVENTS - TUSCANY 53

54 6 days from only 199,- TUSCANY TRUFFLES, OLIVE HARVEST, WINE AND PASTA INSIDER TASTY EXPERIENCES IN TUSCANY No supplement for single rooms Experience an olive harvest Truffle fair in San Miniato Enjoy a glimpse of the real Tuscany during the olive harvest, when only a few tourists find their way to this beautiful region. You can even participate in the harvest at an authentic mill. After this interactive experience, enjoy a bruschetta lunch relax with a glass of Chianti wine. Your tasty experience goes on to the small town of San Miniato and its Truffle Fair. Whilst the white truffle is the star of the show, other locally produced goods such as wine, cheeses and cold meats vie for attention in the typical local fair, a real celebration of Tuscan life. Itinerary 1 Arrival 2 Pisa and Lari including Europe s smallest and most authentic pasta factory 3 Experience the olive harvest with olive oil tasting and Pietrasanta, the city of sculptors 4 At leisure or optional excursion to Florence by train of San Giovanni in Lucca 5 Visit the Truffle Fair in San Miniato and on to Vinci 6 Departure for return home Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a 4* hotel in the Montecatini area 3 x 3-course dinner 1 x 4-course Tuscan dinner 1 x Pasta Party themed dinner (including ¼l wine and ½l water) Salad buffet with all dinners 1 x full day guide for Pisa and Lari 1 x visit to a pasta factory in Lari 1 x full day tour guide for Pietrasanta and the olive harvest 1 x visit to an olive estate with participation in the olive harvest 1 x lunch snack with bruschetta, wine and olive oil tasting 1 x entrance fee to the Museo dei Bozzetti in Pietrastanta 1 x full day tour guide for San Miniato and Vinci 1 x visit to the truffle fair in San Miniato 1 x entrance fee to the Palazzo Comunale in San Miniato Local assistance from our professional team Dates and prices , , ,- No single room supplement 54 EVENTS - TUSCANY

55 6 days from only 254,- LAKE MAGGIORE THE CAMELLIAS IN BLOOM STUNNING ITALIAN LAKESIDE VISTAS AND THE FRAGRANT CAMELLIAS OF LOCARNO Enjoy stately Lake Maggiore and Switzerland Admire hundreds of varieties of Camellia Boat to enchanting islands on Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta Locarno s Camelia Park was inaugurated back in 2005 for the World Camellia Congress and is an international attraction. Formed into a labyrinthine trail around the 10,000 sqm park on the lake shore, the manicured flower beds contain no fewer than 900 different varieties of camellia. Enjoy a relaxing walk around the many beds in this serene location. Itinerary 1 Arrival 2 Milan fashion capital 3 Ascona and Locarno s Camellia Park 4 Half day boat trip to the Borromean Islands 5 The enchanting little villages of Lake Orta and the Island of San Giulio 6 Departure Inclusions 5 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a good 3* Hotel on Lake Maggiore 1 x welcome drink 1 x 3-course dinner 4 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x 2 hour city guide in Milan 1 full day guided tour in Ascona and Locarno 1 x entrance fee to Camellia Festival (during the exhibition) 1 x half day tour escort for trip to the Borromean Islands 1 x boat ride around the Borromean Islands 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to Lake Orta 1 x return boat ride to Island of San Giulio Dates and prices 2019 (provisional)** , ,- Single room suppl. 79,- **Exact 2019 dates for the Camellia Festival had not been released when we went to press. Contact us for details EVENTS - LAKE MAGGIORE 55

56 5 days from only 224,- VENETO & FRIULI CARNIVAL IN VENICE DISCOVER THE MAGICAL CITY ON THE LAGOON A true Bucket List experience Be part of the magic atmosphere of this event Tasty tour of regional delicacies: ham and prosecco Venice s Carnival celebrations with its masked ball sit alongside those in Rio de Janeiro as being the most spectacular in the world. Banned by Napoleon back in 1797 and only reinstated in 1980, the Venice Carnival now attracts visitors from all over the world to experience the ornate costumes and unique atmosphere which takes over the City on the Lagoon. The Flight of the Angel officially opens the event in spectacular style, swooping down from the 97m tall Campanile on to St Mark s Square on a steel cable. Itinerary 1 Arrival 2 Udine and San Daniele Ham 3 Treviso and the Prosecco wine road 4 Carnival in Venice 5 Departure Inclusions 4 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a good 3*/4* Hotel in Lido di Jesolo 1 x 3-course dinner 3 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x full day tour guide for trip to Udine and San Daniele 1 x ham tasting in San Daniele 1 x full day tour guide for trip to Treviso and Prosecco Wine Road 1 x visit to a winery with prosecco tasting and snacks 1 x full day tour escort for the day at the Carnival in Venice 1 x round trip boat ride from Punta Sabbioni to Venice Dates and prices , ,- Single room suppl. 59,- 56 EVENTS - VENETO & FRIULI

57 5 days from only 159,- ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERA MENTON LEMON FESTIVAL AND FLOWER PARADE IN NICE A COLOURFUL CARNIVAL EXPERIENCE Enjoy the flower battle on the Promenade des Anglais Take part in the bright celebration of citrus fruits in Menton The Nice Carnival Offering one of the world s biggest Carnival celebrations, cosmopolitan Nice and its satellite events attract well over a million visitors to the Côte d Azur each year. The Menton Lemon Festival The Lemon Festival with its Golden Fruit Parade is a unique event on the Cote d Azur with brightly coloured citrus floats and ornate displays providing a memorable day. Itinerary 1 Arrival on the Riviera of Flowers 2 (Saturday) The Nice Carnival We take part in Flower Parade. Brightly costumed models on flower-covered floats throw a hail of flowers onto the public lining the route on the Promenade des Anglais. In the evening a wonderful Parade of Lights presents a night time version with music and entertainment. Chance to have a meal in Nice on your own before returning to the hotel. 3 (Sunday) Menton s Lemon Festival and Procession Transfer by coach to Menton for its famous Lemon Festival. 140 Tonnes of citrus fruits are used to create fantastic works of art which parade along the Promenade and in the town s parks. Don t miss the most spectacular displays in the Jardin Biovès. 4 Sanremo and the Ligurian hinterland with olive oil and wine tasting 5 Departure Inclusions 4 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a good 3*/4* Hotel on the Italian Riviera 1 x 3-course dinner 2 x 3-course dinner with choice of starter & main course 1 x welcome cocktail 1 x full day tour escort for Nizza 1 x full day tour escort for Menton 1 x full day tour escort for Sanremo and the Ligurian hinterland 1 x wine and olive oil tasting with snacks Prices 2019 (in February/March)** 4* Hotel 159,- Single room suppl. 64,- 3* Hotel 224,- Single room suppl. 54,- **The exact programme of performances and prices for 2019 had not been released when we went to press. Contact us for details Group Rates for the Nice Carnival (per person, based on 2018) Group Rates for Menton Lemon Festival (per person, based on 2018) Flower Battle (Saturday, 2.30pm) Standing tickets Allocated seating in the grandstand 11,- 22,- The Golden Fruit Parade (Sunday, 2.30pm) Standing tickets Grandstand seat 10,- 20,- Festival of Lights (Saturday, 9pm) Standing tickets Allocated seating in the grandstand Pre-reservation fee Admin fee per group 11,- 22,- 2,- 10,- Citrus fruit show Light gardens Pre-reservation fee Admin fee per group 10,- 11,- 2,- 15,- EVENTS - ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERA 57

58 4 days from only 159,- VENETO VERONA OPERA FESTIVAL THE MAGNIFICENT SETTING OF THE ARENA Michelangelo is official reseller of Verona Opera tickets Tickets available on sale or return basis until release dates No prepayments required sell with confidence All categories of tickets available Ticket categories & prices (2018 rates) Gradinata C / D / E / F from 25,- Stone steps - unallocated seats Poltroncine di Gradinata from 92,- Numbered seats on steps - side views Poltroncine centrali di Gradinata from 123,- Numbered seats on steps - central views Inclusions 3 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast 2 x 3-course dinner 1 x 3-course lunch (on day of performance ) 1 x entrance ticket for the given performance Cat. Gradinata Sectors C to F Dates and prices 2019 From to from 159,- We hold continuous group space allocations in 3* and 4* Hotels on Lake Garda, Abano Terme, Verona and its surroundings Poltrona from 148,- Second Sector Stalls Poltronissima from 195,- First Sector Stalls Pltronissima Gold from 226,- First Sector Stalls Gold The exact programme of performances and ticket prices for 2019 had not been released when we went to press. Contact us for details! Supplements will apply for premieres and performances on Fridays and Saturdays Discounted rates apply for bookings confirmed before and for persons under 30 or over 65 years of age 58 EVENTS - VENETO

59 5 days from only 174,- TUSCANY 65 TH PUCCINI FESTIVAL JULY AND AUGUST IN TORRE DEL LAGO All categories of tickets are bookable through us Special rates apply for overnight stays in Montecatini Combine this tour with either the Volterra Medieval Festival or the Bocelli Concert Our suggested hotels Prices shown below are estimated per person, based on twin/double and include allocated seating in the 4th sector for the performance. Giacomo Puccini, who was born in Lucca in Tuscany, was one of the most influential composers in Italy at the turn of the 20th century, producing some of the most memorable melodies and operas ever created. Many of his most popular works were penned in his villa in Torre del Lago and the resort honours his memory annually with the staging of his operas each July and August before a breath-taking backdrop directly on the shores of Lake Massaciuccoli. The inaugural festival took place in 1931 and in July and August continues to thrill international audiences to this day. The most famous Operas of Giacomo Puccini La Bohème Madama Butterfly Turandot featuring the aria Nessun Dorma Tosca Manon Lescaut 3* Hotel Piccadilly Montecatini 4 nights Half Board from 174,- 4* Hotel Adua - Montecatini 4 nights Half Board from 194,- 4* Hotel Villa delle Rose Pescia 4 nights Half Board from 219,- 4* Hotel Villa Cappugi Pistoia 4 nights Half Board from 229,- The exact programme of performances and ticket prices for 2019 had not been released when we went to press. Contact us for details. Suggested excursions: Chianti valley with cookery lesson The stunning towns of Lucca and Pisa The masterpiece of Florence Medieval Volterra and a truffle hunt EVENTS - TUSCANY 59

60 TEATRO ALLA SCALA OPERA HOUSE La Scala theatre was built on the location of the Santa Maria alla Scala Church in 1778 which gave its name to the Opera House. The sumptuously decorated balcony seats were owned by important Milanese families, and the building itself became the place to be seen. A visit to the Milanese Scala is considered the dream of every opera lover. Why book with us? We provide tickets and accommodation near La Scala We offer an elegant programme in addition to the performances, including: Leonardo s The last supper The Pinacoteca di Brera Organisation of a Milanese Aperitivo with Campari in a delightful setting Visit to the Casa Verdi rest home for musicians Private behind the scenes tours of the opera house and a pre performance aperitif in the Theatre The exact programme of performances and prices for 2019 had not been released when we went to press. Contact us for details. GRAN TEATRO LA FENICE VENICE S HISTORIC OPERA HOUSE Venice s Opera House, the Gran Teatro La Fenice is particularly well named as Phoenix (Fenice in Italian) is the mythical bird that can rise from the ashes. Venice s Theatre has had to be rebuilt three times as a result of fire, and its latest incarnation, completed in 2003, draws on its past glories with stunning internal decorations from the 19th Century, combined with all the technical features of a modern day opera house. Why book with us? All tickets categories are bookable through us Seat allocation provided at point of reservation Broadest selection of hotels, both on the island and on the mainland Full transfer and excursion service Ticket reservation for the New Year s concert Themed excursions for the supporting events Private behind the scenes tours of the opera house and a pre-performance aperitif in the Theatre Venetian recital in the church of San Vidal Private concerts in Venetian palaces Themed guided tours following in the footsteps of such greats as Vivaldi and Wagner The exact programme of performances and prices for 2019 had not been released when we went to press. Contact us for details.

61 TOURS page 62 ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERAS 64 FLORENCE ROME - VENICE 66 SOUTHERN ITALY (Sorrento & Apulia) 68 SICILY 70 CORSICA & SARDINIA 72 GRAND TOUR OF ITALY

62 ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERAS French flair and Italian tradition The breathtaking Cinque Terre and the French Riviera Jet Set Beautiful Cinque Terre and Portovenere Includes spectacular boat rides Visit glamorous Cannes and St. Tropez 1 Arrival Check-in to your hotel, dinner and overnight. 2 Cinque Terre Today we will explore the Cinque Terre, one of the most picturesque natural parks in Italy. After a train ride from Levanto, our sightseeing begins in the stunning, brightly coloured Riomaggiore. Continuing by boat we reach Manarola and Monterosso, the westernmost villages that make up the Cinque Terre. 3 Genoa Genoa s fame is based not only on its harbour, but also on the palaces and museums, in which lie priceless treasures and works of art. The luxury and deeds of the proud city come alive again in Porto Antico, where the life in the labyrinth-like streets of the historic district pulses between the old city walls. 4 San Remo and the Ligurian hinterland Sumptuous parks, palm-lined promenades and elegant shopping streets characterize San Remo, the main city on the Riviera of Flowers. We head into the peaceful Ligurian hinterland. Olive groves and vineyards are dotted alongside small towns like the medieval Dolceacqua. An olive oil tasting will be enjoyed here, to round off your visit. 5 Menton and the Principality of Monaco Today we drive to Menton, the town known as La perle de la France. Built atop a rock peak above the sea and dominated by the Prince s Palace and the Cathedral, the city offers several sights, such as the Exotic Garden and the world famous Casino. The sensory experience of the day will be without doubt our visit to a perfumery to experience the true scent of luxury. Drive on to Cannes. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 62 TOURS

63 8 days from only 424,- Inclusions 2 x nights accommodation at a 3* Hotel in Chiavari 2 x nights accommodation at a 3* Hotel in Diano Marina 3 x nights accommodation at a 3* Hotel in Cannes 7 x buffet breakfast at the hotels 5 x 3-course dinner with salad buffet at each hotel 6 Nice and Antibes We begin our day with a guided tour of Nice. We will pay a visit to the historic Hotel Negresco, symbol of the glorious splendour of the city and drive along the famous Promenade des Anglais. In the afternoon we reach Antibes, following in the footsteps of Claude Monet, Paul Signac, Hans Hartung, as well as Victor Hugo. 7 St. Tropez and Cannes We begin our day with a visit to the glamorous St. Tropez, with its most important sights: the fortress of La Citadelle, the Place de Lices Square, where every Tuesday and Saturday a delightful open-air market takes place, and Mole Jean-Réveille, a quay offering splendid views. We continue on to Cannes, location of the famous Film Festival. Soak up the sophisticated and cosmopolitan atmosphere of the town centre as you stroll around. 8 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. 1 x typical dinner in a Restaurant in Cannes 1 x full day tour escort to Cinque Terre 1 x boat ride Riomaggiore - Manarola and Manarola - Monterosso 1 x train ride from Levanto Riomaggiore and Monterosso - Levanto 1 x 3 hour city guide in Genoa 1 x full day tour escort for Sanremo and the Ligurian Hinterland 1 x olive oil tasting 1 x full day tour escort for tour of Menton and Monaco 1 x visit to a perfumery 1 full day guide in Nice and Antibes 1 x full day tour escort for St. Tropez and Cannes , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 144,- Prices for an English speaking tour escort throughout are available on request ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERAS 63

64 FLORENCE ROME - VENICE The Classical Tour of Italy A best-selling pricebreaker to the greatest must-see sights Excellent sales potential Visit Italy s top sights on one tour Headphone sets provided throughout the tour 1 Arrival at Lake Garda Check-in to your hotel, dinner and overnight. 2 Verona Guided tour of Verona, inspiration for Shakespeare s Romeo and Juliet, and one of the most important art sites in the Veneto region. Tour the magnificent Piazza Brà and its incredible Roman amphitheatre. Enjoy a little shopping in the Via Mazzini, surrounded by history, art and modern life. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 3 Lake Garda Florence - Chianciano Today we are off to the must-see city of Florence. Admire the Cathedral with the Campanile and Baptistery and the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence s Town Hall. Coach ride to Chianciano Terme. 4 Rome Today an official guide will show you this beautiful city: external view of the Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine, Forum Romanum and Circus Maximus. The visit ends at the Vatican, where you will be able to admire St. Peter s Basilica. Return to Chianciano Terme. 64 TOURS

65 8 days from only 259,- Inclusions 2 x nights accommodation at a 3* hotel in the Lake Garda area 3 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in Chianciano Terme 2 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in the Venice area 7 x buffet breakfast with 3-course dinner 5 Perugia and Assisi Perugia hosts a treasure trove of sights from all eras, which we discover on our city tour. We continue to Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis. Visit St. Francis Lower Basilica, and marvel at the excellent fresco cycle by Giotto, before wandering through the city centre. 6 Chianciano Ravenna - Venice area Explore the most important architectural monuments of the former capital of the Western Roman Empire including the San Vitale Basilica, the Galla Placidia Mausoleum, and the mausoleum of the Ostrogoth King Theodoric (entrance fee not included). Travel on by coach to the Venice area. 7 Venice Venice is simply unique and undoubtedly the most romantic city in the world. Our tour guide will showcase a different Venice, a world away from the hustle and bustle of the well-trodden tourist hotspots, to reveal a hidden city, which is even more fascinating for visitors. Day 8 Departure The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. 1 x 2 hour city guide in Verona 1 x 3 hour city guide in Florence 1 x 6 hour city guide in Rome 1 x 2 hour city guide in Perugia 1 x 2 hour city guide in Assisi 1 x 2 hour city guide in Ravenna 1 x boat ride from Tronchetto/ Punta Sabbioni to Venice centre and back 1 x 2 hour city guide in Venice Headphone sets throughout the tour , , , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 109,- Prices for an English speaking tour escort throughout are available on request FLORENCE - ROME - VENICE 65

66 SOUTHERN ITALY Sorrento and Apulia Southern Italy from Coast to Coast The two most beautiful regions of Southern Italy in one tour Boat ride to Capri included Visit Matera European City of Culture Arrival in Sorrento Coach transfer from Naples Airport to your hotel. Dinner and overnight. 2 Naples and Pompeii Upon arrival in Naples, our English-speaking guide will take us on a panoramic walking tour of the old town including the Piazza del Plebiscito, Gallery Umberto I and the Royal Palace. In the afternoon, our journey will continue to Pompeii, the city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, for a guided tour of the archaeological site (entrance fee not included). 3 Capri Today s highlight will be the visit to the island of Capri. A 25 minute ferry ride takes us to Marina Grande. We reach by a local minibus the centre of Capri with its famous Piazzetta and the Augustus Gardens. From here, we will enjoy fantastic views of the Faraglioni cliffs far below. In the afternoon we go on to Anacapri where we will view the house of the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe and the church of San Michele (entrance fees not included). Return to Sorrento in the late afternoon. 4 The Amalfi Coast and drive on to Torre Canne/Polignano Today we will take the stunning Amalfi Coastal Road passing by Positano, characterised by its narrow alleys and stone steps. In Amalfi we will stop for a break. We will see the Cathedral, Bell Tower and the Paradise Cloister. In the afternoon we will proceed on to Torre Canne/Polignano. 66 TOURS

67 9 days from only 654,- Inclusions 3 x nights accommodation at a good 3*/4* hotel in the Sorrento area 3 x nights accommodation at a good 3*/4* hotel in Torre Canne/ Polignano 1 x nights accommodation at a good 3*/4* hotel in Caserta/Naples 7 x buffet breakfast and 3-course dinner Airport assistance on arrival/departure in Naples Private coach hire as per the itinerary (airport transfers included) 5 Matera 2019 s Capital of Culture This morning we will visit Matera with its famous sassi (stone dwellings carved out of the cliff face). This city was built into the hills and ravines made of soft tufa stone. This area is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city will be a European Capital of Culture in Enjoy the afternoon by experiencing this unique city at your leisure. 6 Alberobello und Castellana Grottos We spend the morning exploring the town of Alberobello with its unique conical stone roofed Trulli houses. We will then make our way to the Castellana Caves, one of the most important tourist attractions in Puglia. The underground tunnels are up to a mile long and feature amazing of stalactites and stalagmites. We arrive at our hotel in Ostuni later in the day and have time to relax. 7 Castel del Monte Palace in Caserta Today s excursion will take us to the world-famous Norman Castle, the Castel del Monte, which dominates the surrounding countryside from a hilltop and is one of the best preserved medieval castles in southern Italy (entrance fee not included). After a guided tour, we will proceed to the city of Caserta (entrance fee not included), to visit its famous Palace. Now UNESCO World Heritage site and former residence of the Bourbon King of Naples. 8 Departure Coach transfer to Naples Airport and departure. 1 x 2 hour city guide in Naples 1 x 2 hour guided tour in Pompeii 1 x full day guided excursion to Capri and Anacapri 1 x round trip ferry ticket from Sorrento to Capri 1 x minibus excursion to Anacapri 1 x guided tour for the Amalfi Coast 1 x local bus for the excursion on the Amalfi Coast 1 x 2 hour city guide in Matera 1x full day guide for Alberobello and the Castellana Grottos 1 x 1 hour guided tour at Castel del Monte (entrance fee not included) 1 x 2 hour guided tour at the Palace of Caserta (entrance fee not included) Headphone sets throughout the tour , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 129,- Prices for an English speaking tour escort throughout are available on request Rates valid from only 15 paying guests The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. LOCAL COACH HIRE INCLUDED Ask us for inclusive flight package rates SOUTHERN ITALY 67

68 SICILY In the footsteps of Montalbano A Sicilian round trip Discover the locations of the famous Commissario Multiple tastings of local specialities included Tour escort throughout the whole tour 1 Arrival in Palermo and transfer to Castellammare del Golfo Overnight on board. 2 Evening arrival in Palermo and onward journey to Castellammare del Golfo Check-in, dinner at a local restaurant and overnight. 3 Trapani and Erice with typical pastry and wine Guided walk through the beautiful old town of Trapani with glimpses of the wonderful panoramic landscape of the salt flats. In the afternoon, visit the walled village of Erice, a medieval town perched on a rock offering fabulous views of the surrounding countryside. Stroll the quaint streets of the attractive historic district with its small squares and landscaped inner courtyards. Enjoy a traditional almond pastry and a glass of Marsala wine from the old bakery. Evening at leisure to explore the beautiful centre of Castellammare. 4 Camilleri s Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples - change of hotel Today we move to Agrigento, hometown of Andrea Camilleri, the writer and creator of Commissario Montalbano. The sheer size of the Old Town area combined with the Temple buildings serve to remind you how important this ancient city would have been in Greek times. Visit the Valley of the Temples with the perfectly preserved Temple of Concordia. 5 Montalbano s home and Scicli change of hotel Today we discover more about the places which the TV series has made so familiar. Stop in Punta Secca at Montalbano s home, with its famous terrace and beach where he takes his customary swim. Enzo is waiting for us in his Trattoria for a bite of lunch. After a digestive stroll along the beach as the Commissario himself does, we go on to Scicli, where we will see the location of the police station. Dinner and overnight in our hotel near Noto. 6 Ragusa and Modica in the footsteps of Montalbano Visit Ragusa and Modica which provide the most of the scenes in the Montalbano episodes. Strolling through the narrow streets you will feel the atmosphere of Vigata. Both cities are a beautiful example of the Baroque heritage of the Val di Noto and will impress you for their breathtaking architecture. In Modica, we will sample a local speciality, a unique type of chocolate inspired by an ancient recipe. 68 TOURS

69 9 days from only 879,- Inclusions 2 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast at a 3*/4* Hotel in Castellammare del Golfo 1 x night accommodation with buffet breakfast and 3-course dinner at a 3*/4* Hotel near Agrigento 2 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast and 3-course dinner at a 3*/4* Hotel near Noto 2 x nights accommodation with buffet breakfast and 3-course dinner at a 3*/4* Hotel near Taormina 1 x night accommodation with buffet breakfast and 3-course dinner at a 3*/4* Hotel near Palermo Airport assistance on arrival/departure in Palermo Private coach hire as per the itinerary (airport transfers included) 7 The Fishing village of Marzamemi, cherry tomatoes and Syracuse change of hotel In the morning head to Marzamemi, an authentic little fishing village, whose main feature is the 16th century Tonnara (tuna-fishing site). We then stop at a farm producing sweet Pachino cherry tomatoes. Learn about the production and enjoy a tasting. In the afternoon visit Syracuse and wander through the narrow, winding streets of the Ortigia Peninsula, the historical centre of Syracuse. Dinner and overnight in the Taormina area. 8 Palermo and Monreale change of hotel Explore Sicily s capital Palermo, a lively port city, with stunning palaces sitting close to typical Southern Italian street scenes. In the mountains above Palermo, the Normans built Monreale Cathedral in celebration of their victory over Islam, which together with the Cloister form one of the most important sites on the island (entrance fee not included). Back in town, we stop to taste the famous Arancini (fried rice balls stuffed with meat and tomatoes). In the evening we board the ferry back to the mainland. Overnight on board. 9 Departure Transfer to Palermo airport and flight back home. The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. 1 x 3-course dinner at a restaurant in the centre of Castellammare 1 x tasting of almond pastry with Marsala wine in Erice 1 x entrance fee to the Valley of the Temples 1 x 2 hour guided tour in the Valley of the Temples 1 x 3-course lunch Da Enzo 1 x chocolate tasting in Modica 1 x farm visit near Pachino for a cherry tomato tasting 1 x wine tasting with snacks on the Etna wine road 1 x 5 hour guided tour in Palermo and Monreale 1 x street food experience with arancini Headphone sets throughout the tour 1 x tour escort throughout your stay on Sicily (from day 1 to day 9) , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 204,- Rates valid from only 15 paying guests LOCAL COACH HIRE INCLUDED Ask us for inclusive flight package rates SICILY 69

70 CORSICA & SARDINIA Corsican and Sardinian seascapes Shades of the Caribbean in the heart of the Mediterranean Ferries to Corsica and Sardinia included Boat trip to La Maddalena Archipelago Chic Porto Cervo 1 Night ferry from Toulon/Savona to Bastia Overnight on board. 2 Cap Corse and and wine tasting Welcome to Corsica! Our tour begins at Cap Corse, the Sacred Promontory at the north of the island, before continuing on to Saint Florent, in the Calvi area. En route, we will stop for a wine tasting accompanied by samples of tasty regional products. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 3 Les Calanches and Ajaccio Situated between Ajaccio and Calvi, the Calanques de Piana is an almost surreal area of weather carved pink granite, one of the most impressive rock phenomena on the island. We continue on to Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. The port city offers many attractions, which we will discover on our guided tour. 4 Bonifacio Today we drive south to the fortified town of Bonifacio. A short tourist train ride brings us to the medieval upper town, the Haute Ville. We then head across to Sardinia, taking the short 50 minute ferry crossing to Santa Teresa di Gallura, a lovely town lapped by beautiful turquoise and azure blue waters of the Mediterranean. 70 TOURS

71 8 days from only 599,- 5 Costa Smeralda Today we will take the stunning drive along the Costa Smeralda, known the world over for its breathtaking sea views. We will stop by beautiful towns like chic Porto Cervo, playground of the rich and famous, Cala di Volpe where Roger Moore emerged in his Lotus out of the sea in the 007 film, The Spy who Loved Me and Porto Rotondo. 6 La Maddalena Archipelago Today we enjoy a whole day trip by boat to the Maddalena Archipelago, a true natural paradise. The area has been declared a National Park by virtue of its unique fauna and flora and its turquoise waters. First stop at Santa Maria, one of the best beach of the region. We continue on to the unique Spiaggia rosa (rose-pink sand) and the pretty little port town of Maddalena. On the way back we will enjoy a pasta dish on board. 7 Castelsardo and embarkation for our return to Genoa We reach Castelsardo along the enchanting and now familiar northern coast. The castle sits atop a hill, looking down on the many handicraft stalls which fill the alleys with their palm-leaf baskets. After a stroll through the picturesque streets, we reach Porto Torres, where we board our ferry bound for Genoa. Overnight on board. 8 Arrival in Genoa The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. Inclusions 1 x night ferry Savona/Toulon Bastia for coach and passengers based on inside cabins without meals 1 x night accommodation with buffet breakfast and 3-course dinner at a 3* Hotel near Calvi 1 x night accommodation with buffet breakfast and 3-course dinner at a 3* Hotel near Ajaccio 3 x night accommodation with buffet breakfast and 3-course dinner at a 4* Hotel in Palau 1 x night ferry from Porto Torres to Genoa for coach and passengers based on inside cabins without meals 1 x light lunch with traditional local products in Algajola 1 x full day tour escort for Cap Corse and wine tasting 1 x full day tour escort for Les Calanches and Ajaccio 1 x 2 hour guided tour in Bonifacio 1 x tourist train ride to Bonifacio s upper town 1 x ferry Bonifacio St. Teresa for coach and passengers 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion along the Costa Smeralda 1 x full day tour escort for the excursion to La Maddalena archipelago 1 x boat ride to La Maddalena arcipelago including a maccaroni dish on board 1 x 2 hour guided tour of Castelsardo , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 159,- Prices for an English speaking tour escort throughout are available on request CORSICA & SARDINIA 71

72 GRAND TOUR OF ITALY Milan Lake Garda Venice Pisa - Florence Siena - Assisi Rome - Sorrento Pompeii Naples Palermo Agrigento Taormina Experience the essence of Italy in one tour Visit Milan, Tuscany, Rome, Assisi, Venice and Sicily Michelangelo s masterpiece the Sistine Chapel Headphone sets troughout the tour 1 Arrival Arrival in Milan. Dinner and overnight. 2 Milan We start in the fashion capital of Italy. Our guided tour will introduce us to the famous Cathedral, the world renowned La Scala Opera House and the Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery before ending up at the imposing Castello Sforzesco. We make sure to leave some time for a little shopping. COACH CREW TRAVELS FREE 3 Lake Garda Today we discover Italy s largest lake, which blends Alpine landscapes and Mediterranean vegetation. Enjoy a lovely stroll in the medieval village of Sirmione, known as La Perla del Lago and which was once the site of a Roman thermal settlement. 4 Verona Padua - Venice Our first stop is Verona, Shakespeare s famous city of love. Not to be missed is the Roman Arena and, of course, Juliet s Balcony. We continue on to Padua, where the remains of St. Anthony can be found. Finally on to Venice for our next overnight stop and tour highlight. 5 Venice We reach the famous City on the Lagoon and spend all day discovering this incredible place visiting St. Mark s Square, the Bridge of Sighs and the Doge s Palace. After the tour you can take time to stroll through Venice s narrow calli. 6 Pisa Leaving Venice we cross the Apennines to reach Pisa in the early afternoon Today s highlight is, without doubt, the Square of Miracles with the iconic Leaning Tower, Cathedral and Baptistery. 7 Florence Visit magnificent Florence, with wonderful architecture like the Cathedral and Campanile, the Baptistery, and Palazzo Vecchio. There is also time for shopping and taking in the atmosphere of this great city. NB: Uffizi Gallery group bookings are possible through us 72 TOURS

73 17 days from only 899,- 8 Florence - Siena - Assisi - Rome This morning we discover Siena, and its famous Piazza del Campo, scene of the famous Palio horserace. Later we visit Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis. We will visit St. Francis Basilica to marvel at the excellent fresco cycle by Giotto before continuing to Rome. 9 Rome Discover the Vatican City today with the majestic St. Peter Basilica, its square and the famous Vatican museums with the marvelous Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo. In the afternoon enjoy free time to explore Italy s capital on your own. 10 Rome - Sorrento Today, we step back in time to the Age of the Romans. We see the Roman Forum, Arch of Constantine and pass by the Coliseum. The Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain in the Baroque centre of the city are on the also on our itinerary. In the late afternoon we proceed south to Sorrento. 11 Sorrento at leisure Explore this beautiful city by yourself, strolling through the narrow streets of the town centre. 12 Pompeii, Naples and overnight ferry Today we visit Pompeii, destroyed by the eruption of 79AD (entrance fee not included). Close by is Naples, a city of exuberant vitality. Our city tour will show you all the highlights, before we enjoy an authentic Neapolitan pizza prior to boarding the night ferry to Sicily. 13 Palermo - Agrigento Palermo is the largest city and capital of Sicily. A cradle of Latin, Byzantine and Islamic cultures, the Palatine Chapel with its fantastic byzantine mosaics, combines all three in one incredible building. In the afternoon we will drive south across the island to reach Agrigento. 14 Agrigento - Taormina This morning we see the Valley of the Temples (entrance fee not included) a complex of magnificent temples, described by the Greek poet Pindar as the most beautiful city created by mortal man. Afterwards we head to Taormina, with wonderful views on to the sea and Mt. Etna. 15 Taormina Taormina enjoys a breathtaking setting amongst rocks, gardens and sea! Its most famous structure, the Greek- Roman Theatre, affords incredible views out to the sea and Mt. Etna. Enjoy a Sicilian Farewell dinner to round off an excellent tour. 16 Palermo and night ferry to Genoa On the way to Palermo make a stop in Cefalu, famous for its beautiful beaches, but also for the structures which have re mained intact since the Arabic-Norman period. In the evening board the ferry back to the mainland. Overnight on board. 17 Arrival in Genoa and of services Inclusions 2 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in the Milan area 1 x night accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in the southern area of Lake Garda 2 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in the Venice area 2 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in the Montecatini area 2 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in Rome 2 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in the Sorrento area 1 x night ferry from Naples to Palermo for coach and passengers based on inside cabins without meals 1 x night accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in the Agrigento area 2 x nights accommodation at a 3*/4* hotel in the Taormina area 1 x night ferry from Palermo to Genoa for coach and passengers based on inside cabins without meals 14 x buffet breakfast 12 x 3-course dinner at the hotels 1 x Pizza meal in Naples 1 x Sicilian Farewell dinner in Taormina 1 x 2 hour city guide in Milan 1 x full day guided tour of Lake Garda 1 x 2 hour city guide in Verona 1 x 2 hour city guide in Padua 1 x 2 hour city guide in Venice 1 x 2 hour city guide in Pisa 1 x 2 hour city guide in Florence 1 x 2 hour city guide in Siena 1 x 2 hour city guide in Assisi 1 x 4 hour city guide in Rome 1 x 6 hour city guide in Rome 1 x admission ticket to the Vatican Museums 1 x full day guided tour of Pompeii and Naples 1 x 4 hour city guide in Palermo 1 x 2 hour city guide at the Valley of Temples in Agrigento (entrance fee not included) 1 x full day guided tour of Taormina Headphone sets throughout the tour , , , , , , ,- Single room suppl. 299,- Prices for an English speaking tour escort throughout are available on request The programme and hotels detailed here merely represent our suggestion for a great tour. We will gladly provide a quotation based on your specific requirements. GRAND TOUR OF ITALY 73

74 500 years of Leonardo Da Vinci Few people in the course of human history can match the genius of Leonardo da Vinci. A man noted primarily as an artist, Leonardo was also a prominent architect, engineer and inventor. His revolutionary thinking was centuries ahead of his time is the 500th anniversary of his death and this momentous milestone will be marked throughout the country by a range of events and exhibitions in his honour. In particular the City of Milan, where he spent many productive years, and the region of Tuscany, where he spent his formative years, will be at the forefront of these celebrations. Plan a special Leonardo themed tour next year, taking in the key sites which shaped the life of this extraordinary individual, who became the embodiment of Renaissance Man. Let Leonardo inspire your next Italian tour and be part of the celebrations. Call us for a tailor-made proposal now!

75 Matera European capital of Culture 2019 The town of Matera - European Capital of Culture located in the Province of Basilicata in southern Italy is the site of one of the longest continually inhabited human settlements in the world. Your first sight of the many Sassi or cave dwellings is spellbinding. Initial settlers colonised natural caves in the soft tufa limestone as long as 7000 years ago and later inhabitants cut their own dwellings into the rock face, creating over the millennia an underground city complete with cave churches, and shops, which transport astonished visitors back to biblical times. No wonder then that Matera is a World Heritage Site and has often been used as an ancient film set. Come with us to explore this fascinating relic of human habitation and culture. Make Matera your Must Do Tour in 2019 Contact us now for a detailed quote.

76 Our most successful sales promotion of 2017 and 2018 Andrea Bocelli s Summer Concert in Tuscany We have the last tickets available for Andrea s Bocelli Concert on July 28th Book now to secure your group space! Let us look after all the details for you: Hotel accommodation Themed excursions Culinary experiences Concert ticket arrangement Contact us for your tailor-made tour to Tuscany! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! For more details about our Terms & Conditions, please look at our website: Michelangelo International Travel S.r.l. Via Monte Misone, 13/b Riva del Garda (TN) info@michelangelo.travel