Days 1-2: London to Toscolano Maderno
We depart on a morning Eurostar from St Pancras International to Paris where we board the TGV for the journey through France and into Italy.We spend the night at the 3* Hotel Dock Milano in Turin. On Day 2 we travel on to Brescia via Milan, where we leave the train and transfer by coach to the lakeside town of Toscolano Maderno. Our hotel, the 3* Hotel Milano, is perfectly situated on the lakefront, with wonderful views of the Maderno Gulf. (Day 1-D; Day 2-B,D)
Day 3:A day at leisure
Your day is free to relax in Toscolano Maderno or discover some of the other lakeside towns. (B)
Day 4: Sailing to Sirmione
Today we sail to delightful Sirmione, which is set on a peninsula jutting out into the lake. The historical centre is mostly pedestrianised, with its narrow winding lanes and pretty piazzas. A panoramic walk leads out around the promontory, and on a clear day you can enjoy great views towards the rugged mountains in the north. The more energetic can climb the battlements of the 13th century Rocca Scaligera castle, or visit the fascinating Roman ruins on the lakeshore. (B)
Day 5:Venice
We travel by train to the mesmerising floating city of Venice. Dominated by the magnificent Basilica di San Marco and the venerable Palazzo Ducale, or doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square is the very heart of the city, and the ideal place to start our exploration of Venice’s delights. After our guided tour you can explore the myriad of winding alleys and twisting lanes that make up the city centre. (B,D)
Day 6: Bolzano and Renon
You are free to relax today or you may wish to join our optional excursion to Bolzano, a lovely mountain town with a distinct Austrian flavour known as ‘the gateway to the Dolomites’. After some free time to explore the town, we join the Renon narrow-gauge railway for a journey past the majestic mountains. (B)
Day 7: Verona
We travel to Verona, the beautiful city made famous in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.We enjoy a guided city tour which includes the imposing Roman Arena and the monumental city gates, before having some free time to explore. (B,D)
Day 8: Il Vittoriale
Today you are able to enjoy a day at leisure.You may wish to join our optional excursion to Il Vittoriale, the Art Deco villa belonging to poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, set in acres of beautiful gardens complete with a battleship and a collection of vintage cars. (B,D)
Days 9-10: Homeward bound
We begin our return rail journey, bound for Dijon and our overnight hotel, the 2* Hotel Kyriad Gare. On Day 10 we catch the onward service to Brussels, where we board the Eurostar back to St Pancras International. (Day 9-B,D; Day 10-B)
Your hotel
The family-run 3* Hotel Milano stands on the lakefront close to the centre of Toscolano Maderno. The hotel has a restaurant, bar and lounge and is surrounded by spacious gardens with a pool. The rooms are comfortable and are equipped with a television, telephone and air conditioning.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday.
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