Highlights of Lake Garda, Venice & Verona

Upon arrival, a coach will be waiting to transfer you to the beautiful lakeside resort of Riva del Garda, surrounded by alpine views along the north side of the lake. A welcome drink awaits you at the hotel, to help you get to know your fellow travellers better. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish, either settling into the hotel or exploring the local area.

Need some recommendations on how to spend your free time? Our expert Tour Manager is on hand at the hotel to provide suggestions and advice on local attractions and eateries. 

Lake Garda gained popularity in the late 1800s, attracting visitors with its refreshing mountain air, and it has remained a renowned spot for its stunning natural landscapes ever since. Our journey today will take us on a scenic tour around the lake, where we will pass through picturesque Italian villages, each with quaint harbours nestled along the shoreline and majestic mountains in the background.

As we travel in a small group, you’ll also see flourishing olive groves, vibrant citrus trees, and the splendid vines that contribute to the well-known Bardolino wines. The shoreline's beauty changes dramatically, from lush greenery in the middle sections to the rugged, pine-covered northern areas, where the unmistakable aroma of pine fills the air.

Today, our journey takes us north to the breathtaking Dolomite Mountains, which were shaped by geological forces over 230 million years ago, resulting in their striking pink and lime-green colours. The lower slopes are lush green fields dotted with charming shepherd’s cottages, with flocks of sheep and goats grazing alongside expansive pine forests that stretch endlessly ahead.

Having enjoyed autonomy since the 12th century, this region feels like a world apart. The quaint homes in its small villages resemble those found in Switzerland or Austria, characterised by low profiles, gentle rooftops, and abundant flower-filled window boxes. The locals stand out as well—they are generally taller than typical Italians and communicate in a German dialect!

Our itinerary is packed with stops, and we’ll explore each place in small groups for a more intimate look at the region. You’ll have the chance to take a cable car (weather permitting) for breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding landscape. The majestic beauty of this rugged territory and its refreshing, crisp mountain air is truly a sight to behold—it will leave you in awe.

Isolated and untouched, this area is a sanctuary for a variety of rare wildlife, providing opportunities to spot chamois, ibex, golden eagles, and various species of deer if you're fortunate!

In the event that known severe weather conditions (such as snow or storms) that could disrupt our itinerary and prevent us from visiting the Dolomites, we will instead include a visit to the charming town of Mantova. If this change is required, your Tour Manager will provide more details when in resort.

Today is yours to spend as you wish while exploring the beautiful Riva del Garda. Since the 1800s, this town has warmly welcomed travellers from around the globe. Its colourful Italian houses in the old town are a delightful array of pastels, ranging from cream and peach to magenta and ochre, showcasing a distinct Mediterranean influence.

The serene waters of the few harbours are gently disturbed by bobbing boats, and a medieval fortress majestically overlooks the town. A quaint square, lined with cosy cafés, enhances Riva's charm, making it one of the most picturesque towns along the lake.

If you’d like some recommendations on how to spend your day in Riva del Garda, our friendly Tour Manager is happy to suggest some of the must-see sights of the town.

Get ready for an early breakfast as we journey to Venice, a city of timeless beauty and rich culture. Our walking tour will take us through the cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways in small groups, highlighting St. Mark’s Square, its Basilica, the Campanile, and Doge’s Palace.

On the 'Classic' tour, we’ll marvel at St. Mark's Basilica, adorned with over 40,000 square feet of vibrant mosaics and opulent decorations. The Doge's Palace, the city’s governmental heart, showcases grand interiors, including four Tintorettos and intricate wood carvings.

Relax in St. Mark's Square at cosy cafés, and climb Campanile - a tower that offers breathtaking views of the city. For art lovers, the Accademia and Guggenheim offer masterpieces from renowned artists.

On the 'Undiscovered' tour, explore lesser-known paths with an expert local guide. Visit Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo, featuring the Dominican church and the remarkable Scuola Grande di San Marco, home to Tintoretto's works. Additionally, discover the Santa Maria della Pietà church and orphanage, where Vivaldi once taught, and a hidden Greek settlement showcasing Venetian architecture.

No visit to this city of canals is complete without experiencing it from the water. After our guided tour, immerse yourself in one of the world’s most romantic and inspiring locations, as you drift along Venice’s iconic waterways aboard a traditional gondola, capturing the mesmerising views at every turn that so inspired countless artists, poets, and writers through the ages. You will have sore feet when you return to the hotel but everyone at least once in their lives should visit this wondrous city.

Spend the morning at leisure either relaxing at the hotel or exploring the local area. Wander the streets, explore the shops or relax with a coffee as you watch the world go by.

This afternoon, we head to a charming family-owned vineyard nestled in the beautiful valley of Trentino, where the climate is perfect for grape growing. We'll start with a guided tour of the wine cellars in small groups, followed by an exquisite tasting featuring a selection of the estate's wines. Enjoy the rich flavours of this region's most delectable wines. Afterwards, we’ll indulge in a rustic lunch prepared with care from the best local ingredients at the owner’s cosy traditional restaurant, where you’ll feel right at home.

Embark on a journey to Verona, the charming city famous for Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet." Our guided walking tour will reveal its beauty and hidden gems as we pass through ancient city walls into the captivating old town.

Marvel at the medieval buildings adorned with vibrant frescoes, while quaint cafés and street musicians create a delightful atmosphere. We’ll explore winding lanes leading to a historic marketplace rich in Verona's past.

Discover the iconic balcony of Romeo and Juliet and the impressive Roman arena, alongside stunning medieval and Renaissance squares, including the remarkable 12th-century cathedral with Titian’s artwork. Don’t miss the enchanting gardens and the celebrated San Zeno church.

For those who have previously visited Verona, our ‘Undiscovered tour’ offers a unique perspective on the city, highlighting many unseen cultural and architectural wonders that are off the beaten path led by an expert tour guide.

After our tour, take a moment to reflect on the enchanting beauty of this legendary city over an aperitivo, just like the locals do. Absorb the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of its remarkable structures and Roman amphitheatre, as the echoes of history resonate above the exquisite domes and spires of this captivating location.