DAY 1 - UK/Milan
Depart on your flight to Milan. On arrival transfer to Lake Maggiore for a two night stay. Fondly known as the ‘Lake of Flowers’, Lake Maggiore is simply idyllic with deep blue waters, towering mountains, terraced flower gardens, beautiful islands and pretty lakeside resorts. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, stroll along the promenade or take one of the regular ferry boats to explore further afield.
DAY 2 - Lake Maggiore
Free to relax and enjoy our optional half day tour of Lake Maggiore taking in the very best of the scenery around the lake and including a boat trip around the Borromean Islands.
DAY 3 - Portofino
Today we leave Maggiore and travel south towards Tuscany. We make a stop at the delightful port of Portofino along the coast from Genoa, where you can indulge in the local speciality – Paciugo ice cream, before continuing to our Tuscany resort such as Montecatini Terme or Marina di Pietrasanta for a three night stay.
DAY 4 - Pisa
Join our included half day excursion to Pisa where the amazing Leaning Tower stands precariously in the appropriately named ‘Field of Miracles’. The tower took 176 years to complete and is truly a sight which has to be seen to be believed.
DAY 5 - Montecatini Terme/Marina di Pietrasanta
At leisure or why not join our optional excursion to Florence, the ‘Art City’ and cultural capital of Italy. This beautiful city is home to Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, the Ponte Vecchio Bridge, the wonderful cathedral and some fine shopping (includes city guide).
DAY 6 - Fiuggi
Our journey continues south through Tuscany before reaching the Lazio region, for two nights in the charming spa resort of Fiuggi, nestling in the hills of Monti Ernici, 40 miles east of Rome. The surrounding countryside is picturesque with rolling hills covered in olive groves and centuries old pine forests. The town itself is centred around two spas which are set in an attractive park, just a short walk from the main shops, restaurants and cafés.
DAY 7 - Fiuggi
Free to relax or join our optional full day excursion to Rome featuring many of the major sights. Voyage back into history and see the Colosseum, St Peter’s and the Vatican City, the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain; throw in a coin and you’re sure to return (includes city guide).
DAY 8 - Montecassino Abbey
Leaving Fiuggi we visit Montecassino Abbey and the British Commonwealth World War II cemetery, before continuing to the Bay of Naples and the Sorrento Peninsula for a three night stay. Sorrento itself is set on a spectacular headland with magnificent views across the Bay of Naples. This cosmopolitan resort has an array of shops, restaurants and pavement cafés where you can relax and enjoy the setting.
Take time to wander through the old cobbled streets of the historic centre, enjoy shopping along the main street, Corso Italia or simply stroll down to the picturesque harbours of Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. Don’t forget to sample the delicious wines and culinary delights of this region, such as the excellent pasta dishes and locally caught fish.
DAY 9 - Amalfi Coast
Join our included full day excursion along the stunning Amalfi Coast. As the road twists and turns down the coastline towards Amalfi itself, you will experience breathtaking views across the Gulf of Naples. Enjoy free time in this picturesque town, poised between the mountain and the sea, before returning to your hotel.
DAY 10 - Sorrento
Today we offer a half day optional excursion to Pompeii featuring a guided walking tour of this ancient city of the Roman Empire. Pompeii was frozen in time when nearby Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79AD and buried the entire area under a layer of hot ash. Comparatively recent excavations have revealed mummified remains of the inhabitants and their lifestyle as they were over 2,000 years ago.
DAY 11 - Lake Trasimeno
We head back north to the lovely province of Umbria and an overnight stay in the Lake Trasimeno area.
DAY 12 - Verona
Continuing north past Bologna, we visit the historic city of Verona, with free time in the old town around the famous Roman arena. Later we reach the spectacular setting of Lake Garda, the largest of all the Italian lakes. To the north the majestic Brenta Dolomites march down almost to the water’s edge and to the south olive groves and vineyards bask in the sunshine. For a different perspective enjoy one of the many ferry boat trips on offer, a delightful way of viewing the lake and its surroundings. You will stay for three nights at a picturesque south lake location such as Peschiera.
DAY 13 - Lake Garda
Join our included three-quarter day tour of Lake Garda. See some of the best beauty spots on this fabulous lake, surrounded by lush groves of olives, vines and citrus trees. A boat trip is also included.
DAY 14 - Lake Garda
At leisure or join our optional excursion to Venice, featuring a boat transfer into the heart of St. Mark’s Square. Marvel at the Doges’ Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge.
DAY 15 - Milan/UK
Transfer to Milan Airport for your return flight to the UK.