Highlights of Lake Garda, Venice & Verona

Step off the coach and let Bardolino greet you with its lakeside charm and sweeping alpine vistas. Raise a glass with fellow travellers for a welcome drink at the hotel and start swapping stories as the adventure begins.

The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish. Perhaps wander the lakeshore or simply settle in and soak up the atmosphere at your own pace.

Our Tour Manager is your local insider, always nearby with tips on how to spend your free time. 

This morning, after a leisurely breakfast, we set out to explore the captivating shores of Lake Garda - a destination that has been delighting travellers since the golden age of steam trains and grand hotels. Today, its allure is as strong as ever.

Our day’s adventure takes us on a leisurely circuit of the lake, by both land and boat, weaving through characterful villages where fishing boats bob in tiny harbours and mountain peaks frame every view. Each stop offers its own stories and surprises.

Travelling in a small group means you’ll have time to notice the details: silvery olive groves, bursts of lemon and orange trees - the region’s olives are renowned for their delicate flavour and the lemons and oranges here have inspired everything from limoncello to zesty gelato. You’ll also see the neat rows of vines that produce Bardolino’s celebrated wines - if you’re offered a glass of Bardolino Chiaretto, say yes! This crisp, pale rosé is a local speciality - perfect for sipping as you watch the world go by.

Watch as the landscape shifts, from lush, garden-like shores to the wild, pine-scented slopes of the north, where the air is crisp and invigorating. Every bend in the road brings a new story and a new reason to fall for Lake Garda all over again. 

Today, we venture north to the awe-inspiring Dolomite range—a landscape sculpted by natural forces more than 230 million years ago, giving rise to its distinctive hues of soft pink and pale green. Rolling meadows blanket the lower slopes, sprinkled with rustic shepherds’ huts, while sheep and goats graze peacefully near vast pine forests that seem to stretch without end.

This region, which has enjoyed independence since the Middle Ages, feels wonderfully unique. Its villages are picture-perfect, with homes reminiscent of Swiss and Austrian architecture - low-slung structures, sloping roofs, and windows overflowing with vibrant blooms. Even the people here stand out: they’re often taller than most Italians and speak a dialect of German!

Our day promises plenty of highlights. We’ll explore each stop in small groups for a more personal experience, and - weather permitting - you can ascend by cable car for sweeping views of the dramatic peaks (subject to seasonal operation). The crisp mountain air and rugged scenery will take your breath away.

Remote and pristine, this area is a haven for rare wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for chamois, ibex, golden eagles, and deer - you might just spot one if luck is on your side!

Should severe weather - such as snow or storms - make it impossible to reach the Dolomites, we’ll visit the delightful town of Mantova instead. Your Tour Manager will share full details if this change becomes necessary. 

Today is yours to spend as you wish in Lake Garda. Whether you choose to unwind in the comfort of the hotel or venture out to discover the lake’s enchanting surroundings, the choice is entirely yours.

Lake Garda has been a beloved retreat since the 19th century, and it’s easy to see why. Its shores are lined with a collection of charming towns, each brimming with character and offering a distinct slice of Italian life. Stroll through cobbled streets, pause at a lakeside café, or simply soak up the serene views - every corner promises something special. 

After an early breakfast, we set off for Venice - a city that exudes timeless elegance and cultural splendour. Once independent from Byzantium in the 10th century, Venice rose to prominence as a Mediterranean powerhouse during the 15th century. Its prosperity from trade is still evident today in the magnificent architecture and artistic treasures that define its streets and squares.

In our small group, we embark on a guided walking tour of enchanting Venice. Marvel at St Mark’s Basilica, a dazzling masterpiece adorned with over 40,000 square feet of intricate mosaics, built to enshrine the saint’s relics. Just steps away, the Doge’s Palace impresses with its ornate woodwork, Tintoretto paintings, and exquisite inlaid floors. St Mark’s Square remains the beating heart of the city - perfect for sipping a coffee and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. For sweeping views, ascend the Campanile, once a guiding lighthouse and famously the site of Galileo’s telescope demonstration.

Art enthusiasts can wander through the Accademia to admire Renaissance masterpieces or visit the Guggenheim for modern works. Venice also offers plenty of affordable dining options beyond the main square. 

For those returning to Venice, uncover hidden gems such as the Santa Maria della Pietà church where Vivaldi once taught, a charming Greek Orthodox church, and Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo - home to a grand Dominican church and the Scuola Grande di San Marco, adorned with Tintoretto’s works.

After the tour, immerse yourself in one of the world’s most romantic cities as you glide along its waterways in a traditional gondola. These elegant boats, crafted from over 300 individual pieces of wood, offer a peaceful way to explore Venice’s quieter backwaters - a truly magical experience that has inspired artists and poets for centuries.

Start your day with complete freedom to enjoy Bardolino at your own pace. Perhaps take a gentle stroll along the picturesque harbour, browse the local boutiques for unique finds, or simply relax and soak up the tranquil lakeside atmosphere. The choice is yours.

This afternoon, we journey into the fertile valleys of Trentino, a region celebrated for its exceptional wines thanks to its ideal climate and rich soil. Here, you’ll visit a charming, family-run vineyard where tradition and passion come together. In our small group we’ll take a guided tour of the cellars, learning about the winemaking process and the heritage behind each bottle.

Following the tour, indulge in a curated tasting of the estate’s finest vintages, paired with local delicacies that highlight the flavours of the region. When sampling wine in Italy, you might hear the phrase “Cin cin!” - the local way to say “cheers”!   Then, sit down to a hearty, rustic lunch crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients in the warm, authentic setting of the owner’s traditional restaurant - a true taste of Italian hospitality that will make you feel like part of the family.

Step into the romantic city of Verona, forever linked to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. In our small group our guided walk begins as we pass through the ancient city walls into the enchanting old town, where history and charm await at every turn.

Admire medieval façades adorned with colourful frescoes, while lively cafés and street performers add to the vibrant atmosphere. Meander through narrow lanes that lead to a historic marketplace steeped in centuries of tradition.

Highlights include the legendary Juliet’s balcony, the grand Roman amphitheatre, and elegant squares showcasing medieval and Renaissance splendour. Don’t miss the 12th-century cathedral featuring Titian’s masterpiece, the serene gardens, and the magnificent San Zeno Basilica.

Returning visitors can uncover a different side of Verona with our ‘Undiscovered Tour’. Led by an expert guide, this experience reveals hidden cultural treasures and architectural gems tucked away from the usual tourist paths - perfect for those seeking something truly unique.

After exploring, embrace the local tradition of an aperitivo. Relax with a refreshing drink as you take in the city’s vibrant energy and admire views of its historic skyline, Roman arena, and ornate spires - a perfect moment to savour the essence of Verona.