Lake Garda to Venice Lagoon

Fly from London to Milan and transfer to 4-star AHG Riva del Sole Hotel in Moniga del Garda for four nights.
(D)

Venture to Isola del Garda by boat this morning on a half-day guided excursion. Lake Garda’s largest island, this picturesque spot is best-known for its Venetian Gothic villa. Designed in the early 1900s, it’s surrounded by greenery, with scenic mountain and lake views all around. Take a guided tour of the villa, home to an impressive 18th-century painting by Carlo Carloni, and see its ornate Italian garden. Afterwards, continue your tour with a chance to sample local olive oil, before returning to Moniga del Garda. The afternoon is free to enjoy at leisure.
(B, D)

Embark on a full-day tour around the highlights of Lake Garda today. You’ll start in the town of Limone, exploring its flower-bedecked lakeside promenade and fragrant lemon groves. Wander its cobbled streets, lined with colourful houses and cafes, and stroll along the port to take in sweeping mountain views. Enjoy some free time, before catching the boat to your next stop, Malcesine. Marked out by its 13th-century castle, this medieval town has been carefully preserved, with narrow, winding lanes set beside a lively harbour area. From there it’s on to Lazise, one of the oldest towns on the lake, boasting its own medieval walls and towers, alongside a vibrant waterfront lined with cafes and restaurants.
(B, D) 

Today is free to enjoy in your own way. Spend some time around Moniga del Garda and its 10th-century castle, or relax with a local wine by the waterfront; the town is famous for its Chiaretto rosé, with vineyards all around. Alternatively, catch a boat to another local village, or kick back on one of the lakeside beaches.
(B, D) 

Transfer from Lake Garda to Verona this morning. A Unesco World Heritage Site and the home of Romeo and Juliet, this historic city is a masterpiece in Roman, medieval and Renaissance architecture. Glimpse the Casa di Giulietta, home to Juliet’s famous balcony; the Scaliger Arches, housing the intricate tombs of the 14th-century ruling Scaligeri family; and the Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheatre. Check out its labyrinth of narrow streets, framed by opulent palaces, and explore its myriad squares; don’t miss Piazza dei Signori, one of the most beautiful in the city. Afterwards, transfer to 4-star Best Western Hotel Tritone in Mestre, located just of outside Venice, for three nights. Dinner is included at a local restaurant.
(B, D) 

Take the 10-minute train to Venice this morning for a memorable day’s exploration. On arrival, board the Vaporetto (waterbus) to San Marco, where you’ll meet your local guide for a three-hour tour. You’ll visit some of the city’s key highlights, including Piazza San Marco and its namesake basilica; Palazzo Ducale, a Venetian Gothic palace that was once the residence of the Doge and the seat of Venetian government; and the famous Rialto Bridge, set above the Grand Canal. The afternoon and evening are free to explore Venice on your own. Return to Mestre by train at leisure.
(B)

Relax with another free day today. Choose to head back into Venice and discover the islands by Vaporetto (your tour leader can help direct you), or take a 30-minute train to the city of Padua. This medieval city is home to Italy’s second-oldest university; expect impressive frescoes, historic market squares and palatial architecture, alongside a vibrant student population.
(B)

Enjoy free time this morning before transferring to Venice airport for your flight home.
(B)