Lake Garda, Verona & the Dolomites

Day 1

Travel to Saarbrücken via DFDS Ferry - Your adventure begins with local pick-ups and a comfortable coach journey to Dover, where we board the DFDS ferry sailing to Calais at 12:00. Enjoy the sea views during the crossing. On arrival in Calais, we continue through northern France and Germany, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way. In the early evening, we reach Saarbrücken, where you'll stay overnight at the Mercure Hotel, giving you time to relax and enjoy dinner before the long drive south tomorrow.

Day 2

Scenic Drive to Riva del Garda - After breakfast, we journey south through the Austrian Tyrol, crossing the impressive Europa Bridge that spans the Wipp Valley. Continue into Italy, passing through alpine scenery and charming towns before reaching Riva del Garda, a historic lakeside town on Lake Garda. Check in at Hotel Portici, a beautifully restored manor house with a central location. On arrival, enjoy a welcome drink and take time to settle in, explore the town's boutiques, or relax in the hotel's wellness facilities.

Day 3

Leisure Day in Riva del Garda - Today is a full day of leisure to explore the local area at your own pace. The hotel is only steps from the lakefront, where you can enjoy gentle walks along the shore, take photographs of the sparkling waters and mountains, or explore the cobbled streets of Riva del Garda. Alternatively, enjoy a treatment at the hotel's modern wellness centre or relax with a coffee in one of the town's charming cafés.

Day 4

Sirmione & Limone sul Garda - This morning, travel to Sirmione, a medieval town located on a narrow peninsula stretching into southern Lake Garda. Discover the town's winding streets, thermal springs, and the impressive Scaliger Castle, a 12th-century fortress surrounded by water. After time to explore and perhaps enjoy a lakeside lunch, continue along the lake to Limone sul Garda, famed for its colorful waterfront, lemon groves, and charming alleys. Capture photographs of the lakeside scenery and take in the fresh air of this picturesque lakeside town before returning to Riva del Garda.

Day 5

Merano & Bolzano - Today, we venture into the Dolomites to visit Merano, a historic spa town known for its mild climate, alpine scenery, and thermal baths. Stroll along its elegant streets, explore gardens, or take in views of the surrounding mountains. On the return journey, stop in Bolzano, the gateway to the Dolomites, where you can admire the blend of Italian and Tyrolean architecture, explore local shops, or enjoy a coffee before returning to Riva del Garda for the evening.

Day 6

Verona Excursion - After breakfast, head to the romantic city of Verona, set along the River Adige. Explore its historic streets at leisure, including the Roman amphitheatre, Piazza delle Erbe, and the famed Juliet's House, where Shakespeare's legendary tale of Romeo and Juliet unfolds. Take your time to enjoy the city's architecture, quaint cafés, and shops before returning to Riva del Garda in the evening.

Day 7

Begin Return Journey to Saarbrücken - We leave Italy behind and cross the Brenner Pass, enjoying sweeping alpine views along the route through Austria. Travel through picturesque villages and valleys, reflecting on the highlights of your trip, before arriving in Saarbrücken for an overnight stay at the Mercure Hotel. Spend your final evening enjoying dinner and reminiscing about your Italian adventure.

Day 8

Journey Home via DFDS Ferry - After breakfast, we travel through France to Calais, where we board the DFDS ferry back to Dover. Continue by coach to your local area, arriving in the evening with memories of Lake Garda's shimmering waters, the Dolomites' alpine grandeur, and the historic cities of Verona and Merano.