Italy
Italy is a land of diverse landscapes – with the breathtaking Alps in the north, the rolling hills of Tuscany and Umbria and the rugged landscape of the Apennines and the Bay of Naples, dominated by Mount Vesuvius – all truly breathtaking. Not forgetting the Amalfi Coast and Monte Argentario, popular coastal destinations.
The elegant Duomo in Milan
Rome, Milan, Venice and Florence offer culture and history aplenty. The Duomo of Milan, one of the largest churches in the world is an elegant mass of marble, with over 100 spires and over 3000 statues. Rome’s Vatican City and Sistine Chapel are ever-popular and Venice’s Grand Canal is lined by 13th century palaces.
Rome is one of Europe's most exhilarating cities, with its unique mix of ancient and modern. Step back in time to explore the Roman Forum or to experience life as a gladiator at the Colosseum; and for anyone with even a passing interest in the Roman Empire, the Palatine Hill and Pantheon are not to be missed. Why not take a stroll around some of Rome's many beautiful Renaissance squares and piazzas, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain or climb the famous Spanish Steps?
The city of Rome encircles the Vatican City - the papal residence and a state in its own right - and St Peter's Basilica and Square are really not to be missed. The sumptuous wealth and influence of the Holy See are in evidence amongst the treasures of the Vatican Museum, which is also home to the Sistine Chapel, with its exquisite Michelangelo ceiling.
Venice is perhaps most striking to first time visitors. It comprises 117 small islands intersected by more than 100 canals. Sit in Piazza San Marco, in the centre of the city, and watch the world go by. Visit the cathedral Basilica San Marco or take a leisurely trip on a gondola. Enjoy a cruise through the lagoon to visit the islands of Murano (famous for glass), Burano and Torcello.
St Mark's Bell Tower in St Mark's Square, VeniceVenice is bursting with museums, architectural landmarks, outdoor markets and speciality shops and on one of our tours we will ensure that you discover the best of Venice. Whether you are interested in a 'secret itineraries' tour of the Doge’s Palace, learning about the Eastern architectural influence of many of Venice’s buildings, shopping for high quality glass, or simply discovering hidden neighbourhoods, we can create the perfect itinerary for you.
Verona is one of the richest cities in Italy. In July and August every year, tourists come from all over the world for the opera season, which takes place in the internationally famous Arena. The Arena is the world's third largest surviving Roman amphitheatre and is built of white Veronese stone, as is the Roman theatre which also dates from the first century AD. In fact, many of the city’s finest buildings and monuments date from the Roman period.
The Italian Lakes in the north of the country, between Venice and Milan, boast some of Italy's finest landscapes, with emerald hills rolling down to sparkling sapphire lakes. There are five major lakes and each has a character of its own. Lake Garda is the largest and a popular tourist destination in its own right, with its lakeside towns offering the perfect opportunity to sit and relax and perhaps sip a drink while watching the sun setting over the lake.
Lazise on Lake Garda is still almost entirely enclosed by its medieval walls
For somewhere memorable to stay close to Lake Garda, L’Unicorno in Western Lombardy embodies refined rural living with irrepressible Italian charm. This Roman-style villa has been the centre of a working farm for generations and its acres of vineyards and land still produce red and rosé wines, as well as grappa. A passion for good food and fine wine is the foundation of this exclusive bolthole close to Lake Garda, managed by hosts Corrado and Gabriella. The superb restaurant makes the most of its home-grown produce.
L'Unicorno in Western Lombardy, close to Lake Garda
Tuscany is famous for its rolling countryside and pretty hillside villages surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The capital of Tuscany is Florence, an art and history lover's dream. Wander through the narrow streets of the well-preserved medieval old town which clusters round the elegant cathedral and bell tower. Visit the Uffizi Museum to enjoy some of the world's most important works of art and the Galleria dell'Accademia to see Michelangelo's David, a masterpiece of Rennaisance sculpture. As a hub for the Italian fashion industry, Florence also has a wealth of luxury shops and exclusive boutiques to explore.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Tuscany's best known landmarks
The Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri are among the world's most romantic destinations. The steep cliffside villages along the coast south of Naples overlook the azure Mediterranean, which is dotted with a handful of pretty islands such as Capri - long a playground for the rich and famous.
