Day 1: Travel to Italy - Transfer to Lake Garda
Upon arrival in Italy, you will be met in the arrivals area of the airport by our local representative who will accompany you to your hotel. As you travel to your hotel, your guide will share some information about the local region, suggest activities for you to enjoy and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2: Boat Trip Around Lake Garda - Explore Lake Garda
Full Day: After breakfast, join your guide for a short walking tour of Riva. Following this, you'll board a private boat for a unique sightseeing tour. Your first stop will be at Limone, a small village backed by lemon groves, with waterside cafes and cobbled streets lined with shops. Afterwards, with fantastic panoramas and a spectacular mountain backdrop, travel onwards for a visit to picturesque Malcesine, famed for its medieval Scaligero Castle. The boat will then return to Riva del Garda, but if you wish to stay on, you may return by public bus or boat later in the afternoon (this will be at your own expense). If remaining in Malcesine, we recommend a trip in the cable car which will take you 1,800 metres above sea level, with spectacular views. Please note that this schedule refers to summer season only, and is weather-dependent. During winter months, there will be an excursion to Bolzano, in the scenic southern Tyrol.
Please note for holidays based in Limone, a coach transfer has been arranged from your hotel to Riva del Garda, where there will be a short walking tour and some free time before beginning your boat tour.
Day 3: At Leisure or Optional Excursion. Free Time in Lake Garda
Full Day: Today, you will have a full day to relax and enjoy Lake Garda's charms. Shop, sightsee at your own pace or sit by the lake and take in the incredible views. You can take a water taxi across the lake to explore at your leisure and your local guide will be happy to suggest activities to suit your interests and advise which highlights are a must see.
Optional Excursion - The Italian Alps
Your local guide will offer an optional excursion to the Italian Alps with a traditional lunch included. See optional excursions list below for further information
Day 4: Venice - Excursion to Venice
Full Day: On today's full day excursion you will explore the enchanting warren of canals, alleys and squares that make up the fascinating city of Venice. Known as 'La Serenissima' or The most Serene,Venice is a prized jewel in Italy's glorious crown. Witness its famous landmarks such as St. Mark's Square, the stunning Gothic building of Ca’ d’Oro, and the imposing Palazzo Ducale. Admire 16th and 17th century art in the Galleria Franchetti and take a photograph on the Ponte di Rialto. You'll have free time to admire the piazzas, bridges and ornate dwellings that adorn the quaysides of Venice's extensive network of canals, before returning to your hotel in Lake Garda.
Please note that for holidays departing in July and August, this excursion will depart your hotel in the late morning, stopping for a light lunch (included) en route, before travelling onwards to Venice in the afternoon and returning to Lake Garda in the evening.
Day 5: Explore Lake Garda at Your Own Pace
Full Day: Today, you will have the day at leisure. In the heart of Riva del Garda is the Piazza III Novembre, surrounded by 14th century porticos and the Apponale Tower, a former defence tower and World War I prison. This square is a beautiful place to explore during your free time. Don't forget to check with your local guide who will be delighted to suggest further activities to suit your interests.
Day 6: Verona - Trip to Verona
Full Day: Following breakfast, you will depart by coach for Verona, via the east side of the lake or the motorway. Either way, the journey time is generally about 60 minutes. Verona is very popular among tourists as well as being a significant commercial hub, given its position half way between Venice and Milan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the importance of its historical buildings and is probably best known today for the Roman amphitheatre, now home to the world famous Verona Opera festival, which runs from late June to early September. Also of interest is Juliet's balcony - the fact that the balcony was added to the house in the 20th century doesn't deter the hundreds of thousands of visitors that flock to see and photograph it every year.
Day 7: At Leisure - Free Time in Lake Garda
Full Day: Spend your last day enjoying the beautiful lakeside setting, shopping for last minute souvenirs or enjoying a coffee, gelato or glass of wine at a local cafe.
Day 8: Return Home - Depart Italy
You will be transferred to the airport with guide assistance for your flight home.
