Lake Garda, Venice & Verona

To Verona

Depart on a flight to Verona then transfer by coach to Lake Garda. Spend seven nights at the 3* Hotel Mavino in the heart of charming Sirmione.

Bardolino

Today enjoy an excursion to Bardolino by ferry boat. Set on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, the charming town of Bardolino is famous for its wine production and here you are free to discover the delicious product itself in one of the quaint bars or cafés you will discover along the narrow cobbled streets, or on the picturesque waterfront with its pastel coloured houses. Another option is to visit the town's 19th century church, Chiesa di San Nicolo, which is situated on the main street near to the ferry port.

At leisure in Sirmione

Today you are at leisure to experience Sirmione further. Famous for its varied architecture, which dates from Roman times onward, the town is also known for its thermal waters which you can discover with a visit to one of the popular spas. Sirmione is bursting with history and charm, including the imposing Rocca Scaligera - a beautifully preserved 13th century castle surrounded by a large water-filled moat that dominates the Old Quarter of town. The views of the lake from the castle's battlements are excellent, so it is well worth the climb.

Venice

Today travel by rail to the fabulous floating city of Venice, enjoying a guided walking tour on arrival. The tour takes in the city's most iconic sights, including the Doge's Palace, the attractive Bridge of Sighs, the spectacular Rialto Bridge, built in only 3 years between 1588 and 1591, and St Mark's Square, the hub of the city. Here we uncover the history of Venice's most famous landmark, the Basilica di San Marco. Renowned for its magnificent exterior and interior covered in spectacular encrusted mosaic marble carvings. St Mark's Basilica dominates the Piazza and is a symbol of Venetian glory. Embellished and enriched over the centuries from the East, it is a huge, complex and mysterious edifice - as much a museum as a church.

For those who prefer a bird's-eye view, take the opportunity to climb the Campanile di San Marco, which offers incredible vistas over the buildings clustered around the centre, and shimmering lagoons further out.

At Leisure

You are at leisure again in Sirmione today. You might want to relax in the hotel, soaking up the views, or explore the towns and villages around the lake by public ferry.

Verona and at leisure

Take an excursion by rail to the handsome and dynamic city of Verona, a popular destination with visitors and a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to the diversity and historical value of its architecture. Today, best known as the setting for Romeo and Juliet and it's history is reminiscent of a Shakespearean epic; in the centuries following the departure of the Romans,

Verona saw periods of romance, drama, political intrigue and bloody murder to rival anything that the playwright could conjure up. Successive territorial conflicts and hostile occupations, the Black Death and the rise of fascism during the Second World War defined some of Verona's darkest hours.

Happily, Verona has managed to emerge from the shadows of its turbulent past and is today a relaxed and cosmopolitan city that invites guests to admire its abundant architectural treasures and indulge in cultural pursuits.

On a guided tour you will see Juliet's balcony, as well as the impressive Roman Arena dating back to 30 AD that is now an open-air opera house that can seat an audience of thirty thousand spectators. Your afternoon is free for you to spend at leisure. The charming narrow streets and picturesque piazzas of Verona make the city a pleasure to explore, while an abundance of pavement cafés offer the perfect opportunity to relax with a drink, savour the atmosphere and watch the world go by - a truly Italian pastime.

At leisure

Your day is free in the wonderful surroundings of Lake Garda, perhaps head to Desenzano whose town square is bordered with restaurants and cafés - view the beautiful architecture and scenery while savouring the local cuisine. You could even travel further afield to visit stylish Milan and explore the city's sights, including the incredible Duomo (the largest Gothic cathedral in the world) and the world's most famous opera house, the 'Teatro alla Scala'.

Return Home

Transfer by coach to Verona airport, for your flight back home. On arrival in the UK, your tour concludes.

Departure Times

Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We will write to you around 10 weeks before your departure date with the precise meeting times for your tour group.