Holiday Highlights

Florence

The cradle of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is recognised as the art capital of the world. Built along the banks of the River Arno and surrounded by the Tuscan hills, it is here where you will find some of the finest sculptures, works of art and architecture including the magnificent Cathedral and Baptistry with its ‘Gates of Paradise’, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Ponte Vecchio. We have arranged a sightseeing tour of the city as soon as we arrive, conducted by a local guide, to enable you to get the most from your visit. The afternoon is then at leisure. Florence has an excellent shopping centre with a large range of Italian fashion, leather goods and shoes in the shops and boutiques.

Pisa & Lucca

Pisa is world famous for its instantly recognisable landmark, the Leaning Tower, which stands at a seemingly impossible angle in the Square of Miracles. No matter how many pictures you have seen of the tower, the reality will take you by surprise and will leave you wondering why it hasn’t toppled over! Next to the leaning tower is the Cathedral and the Baptistry, which is built out of the white Carrara marble. Lucca, birthplace of Puccini, is a perfectly preserved medieval town, hidden behind its splendid Renaissance ramparts. It is a small, graceful town which makes it ideal for exploring on foot and a walk along the ramparts will reward you with lovely views of the narrow streets, elegant Palaces and Romanesque churches. The town is also noted for its medieval squares, particularly the unusual oval shaped main Piazza, which was originally a Roman amphitheatre.

Cinque Terre

A highlight of any holiday to Italy’s Mediterranean Riviera is a visit to the Cinque Terre, one of the best-kept secrets of the Riviera and one of the most unspoiled areas of the Mediterranean. The Cinque Terre is about as beautiful a coastline as you’re likely to find anywhere in Europe. In medieval times the name “terra” (land) meant village and today Cinque Terre refers to the five colourful fishing villages which are perched precariously above the sea along this stunning stretch of coast, with their hidden coves nestling at the foot of dramatic cliffs. Inaccessible by road, the villages are linked together both by rail and via a hillside footpath which winds through Mediterranean lemon groves, olive trees, orchards and terraced vineyards, with spectacular vistas every step of the way. If you prefer a more relaxing visit, we have included a ticket for the local train, which stops at each village. Whichever way you choose to visit the Cinque Terre, you will see some of Italy’s most inspiring

Portofino & Santa Margherita

Portofino, once a tiny fishing village, now the Italian Riviera’s most exclusive resort, needs little introduction. Portofino’s harbour is filled with the yachts of the rich and famous and its pedestrianised streets are lined with stylish restaurants and chic designer boutiques. Not to be missed is a  walk up to St. George’s church and on to the lighthouse, from which there are some fabulous views. Neighbouring Santa Margherita dates back to  Roman times and is another old fishing village turned seaside resort. In the latter half of the 19th century Santa Margherita drew visitors from all over Europe, who stayed in the elegant hotels and villas which line the promenade.