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For centuries, Italy has drawn visitors in search of culture and romance; few countries can compare with its prodigious classical origins in art, architecture, music, design, scenery, food and wine. Italy’s contribution to European painting and sculpture surpasses that of any other nation. Blend this with the magnificent scenery of its lakes, one of the world’s great cuisines and the Italian attitude of living life to the absolute maximum and you have a superb destination for a tour.
Italy is blessed with fantastic scenery and some of the finest is to be found as you approach Lake Garda, where the abundant flowers and verdant trees covering the banks are reflected in an ever-changing kaleidoscope of colour. The picturesque lake with gentle waves lapping slowly onto the shingle shoreline, the stunning snow-capped Alps in the background and a scattering of charming villages all fit together in a beautifully balanced mosaic.
It is only in the past 150 years that Italy has come to exist as a nation state formed from a collection of largely independent cities, often separated by almost impenetrable marshes or mountain ranges. On this tour, we shall visit two of these – the hugely different, but equally classic cities of Verona and Venice.
Verona is without doubt one of the most attractive cities you will ever see, deservedly well known as the setting for the legendary tale of Romeo and Juliet. Significant since ancient times, it has more ancient remains than any city in Italy except Rome itself. Its most striking monument is the arena – the third largest amphitheatre ever built – where the entertainment on offer included gladiatorial combat. Enclosed by massive and exceedingly well-preserved ramparts, the city has a captivating medieval feel to it with pink-hued buildings, lovingly restored, lining the streets.
All the enticing pictures you have seen of St Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and the Grand Canal have merely been telling the extraordinary truth: Venice is a stunning city. You cannot walk for more than a few minutes without stopping to gaze at sights which simply demand admiration.
One of the greatest joys of visiting Italy is, of course, being amongst the Italians themselves. Stylish, always ready to help and, perhaps the overriding national characteristic, living life to the full and creating the fantastic atmosphere so much in evidence – so come with us and see.
The price of this holiday is per person, based on a twin/double room for sole occupancy. The price includes:
Please note the use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.
Attend the Verona Opera Festival - from £66 per person
Whether you’re an opera aficionado or not, a trip to the oldest open-air opera festival could not be a better addition to your stay. Held in a Roman amphitheatre, the summer performances are truly something special – when the floodlights go down on the 15,000 spectators, the cacophony diminishes to hushed whispers, before the magic begins and the beautiful voices fill the dusky air.
Available dates in July 2022, prices shown include a coach transfer to Verona and an unnumbered stone seat. Cushions are available to hire on arrival at the arena.
Performances start between 8:45pm to 9.00pm, but you will be taken to Verona in plenty of time, so you may wish to enjoy a pre-opera dinner or drink.
Please call us to pre-book your optional experiences.
Departure Date | Opera Date | Performance |
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29 June | Sat 02 July | La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi |
06 July | Sat 09 July | La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi |
Fact File
Visa Information
UK Citizens do not require a visa to enter Italy however must have a valid passport. For the most up-to-date passport and visa information visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
We are unable to accept responsibility if you are unable to travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements.
Mobility
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns. General information on mobility in connection with our tours can be found here.
Air-Conditioning
The use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.
All transfer times listed here are approximate, and dependent on traffic. If you have a question regarding transfer times please don't hesitate to contact us.
Arrival airport | Hotel location | Transfer time |
---|---|---|
Milan Malpensa | Gardone Riviera | 2.5 hrs |
Verona Airport | 1.5 hrs | |
Milan Bergamo Airport | 1.5 hrs | |
Milan Linate | 2 hrs |