 Day 1 - Arrive Milan
You are met at Milan's Malpensa Airport and transferred to your hotel. Time to relax before an orientation tour features the Gothic Duomo, 'La Scala' Opera house and the famous Galleria. This evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelling companions. (Dinner)
Day 2 - Milan - Verona (3 nights)
This morning we drive to the beauty of the Italian Lakes. First we head to Lake Maggiore,pausing in elegant Stresa, opposite the romantic Borromean islands. Then we cruise across the lake towards Verbania and drive to Lake Como pusing in Como town. From here we continue to the home of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers - Verona, for our three night stay. Before dinner at our hotel, an orientation tour shows us the Roman Arena and Juliet's balcony, as well as the gardens of Piazza Bra and the markets at Piazza delle Erbe. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner
Day 3 - Verona - Venice Excursion
This morning we make our way to the unique floating islands and palazzos of Venice. On arrival we board our private motor launch, which takes us to St. Mark's Square, Doges' Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Then we pause by the Byzantine basilica of St. Mark en route to a Murano glass- blowing factory to witness Venice's most ancient craft. Later, enjoy time at leisure to explore - or to visit some of the other islands and feast on fresh seafood. Before we return to Verona - why not experience the romance of a gondola ride? (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
Day 4 - Verona - Lake Garda Excursion
Today we enjoy a scenic drive as we travel through the vineyards of the Veneto, to Lake Garda's pretty shores. We arrive in Sirmione where we admire the Scaliger's castle, framed by the snow- capped mountain peaks of the nearby Alps. Then there's free time at leisure before returning to Verona for the night. (Buffet Breakfast )
Day 5 - Verona - Mantua - Florence (3 nights)
Our first stop this morning is in medieval Mantua where there is time to stroll through the ancient arcaded streets and to admire the imposing Ducal Palace as well as the Cathedral. From here we continue via Modena - famous for Ferrari and good food, and Bologna - Italy's gourmet capital, before reaching the rolling hills of Tuscany and Renaissance Florence. On our arrival we enjoy a sightseeing tour on foot, with a local guide, which shows us the Piazza Signoria, the Cathedral and the Santa Croce Basilica.
(Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
Day 6 - Florence - Tuscan Highlights Excursion
Today experience stunning scenery and historical adventure. First we reach the Chianti Hills and stop at the wine- town of Greve with time to visit some of the country's finest wine cellars. Then on to medieval Siena, famous for its exciting Palio horse-race which takes place twice a year on the fan- shaped Piazza del Campo. Next we see its imposing marble Cathedral before continuing to hilltop San Gimignano, aptly named 'medieval Manhattan' due to its numerous ancient towers and narrow quaint streets. Finally,we return to Florence for dinner and overnight. (Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)
Day 7 - Florence at leisure
A full day at leisure to enjoy this culturally rich city. Perhaps visit the Academia and see Michelangelo's statue of 'David' or stroll the beautiful Boboli gardens. There's plenty of time for shopping too...with bargains in leather and gold jewellery. Tonight, why not venture out into the hills surrounding the city for a meal of excellent Tuscan cuisine accompanied by some delicious Chianti wine? (Buffet Breakfast)
Day 8 - Florence - Milan
Today we head for the coast and Pisa where we view the incredible Leaning Tower. Then along the Italian Riviera and via Genoa, birthplace of Christopher Columbus, into Lombardy and its capital, Milan for the last night of this Italian Experience. (Buffet Breakfast)
Depart 9 - Milan
Today time to bid 'arrivederci' to your new- found friends as you transfer to the airport for your return flight home.. (Buffet Breakfast) |
