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Rome
The Eternal City of Rome lives and breathes history. Wherever you look there are reminders of a glorious past, yet it is also very much a city of today celebrated in the exuberance and charm of its people.
Venice
Magical Venice, with its lattice-work of islands, canals and bridges, enchants all those who visit. Its labyrinthine streets, opulent palaces and tiny squares are fascinating to explore, with something different around every corner.
Getting around
City breaks
Buses and trams are available but not advisable. Taxis are located at various points around the city centre. You can do much of your sightseeing on foot, but wear comfortable shoes as the main sights are spread out.
Must sees
The Colosseum, Romes most celebrated ancient monument, is a shadow of its former self, but still evokes images of gladiatorial combat and the Roman Games. Remember to include the Pantheon in your sightseeing plans this beautifully proportioned church contains the tomb of Raphael. Across the River Tiber is the Vatican State, the spiritual centre of the Roman Catholic Church and home to the Pope. Housing 10 museums, the Vatican Complex is a showcase for masterpieces such as the Sistine Chapel and St Peters Basilica. Climb the 137 Spanish Steps or ascend Capitoline Hill to see Michelangelos Piazza del Campidoglio, the exquisite star attraction. The shady gardens of the Villa Borghese provide a leafy respite from the city crowds, while tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, so they say, will ensure your return to Rome.
Getting around
The best way of getting around is by water bus or water taxi (vaporetti) and the ultimate way is by gondola.
Must sees
Take a gondola ride down the Grand Canal as a great introduction. The canal is lined with stunning Renaissance palaces, such as the Venetian-Gothic CadOro with its collection of bronzes, tapestries and paintings. Two of the most famous bridges are the Rialto, spanning the Grand Canal and noted for its bustling market, and the Bridge of Sighs, connecting the Doges Palace with its prisons. St Marks Square, on the banks of the Grand Canal, buzzes with life and is home to the Campanile, once the seat of the Venetian government. Here youll also find St Marks Basilica, the cathedral church whose lavish interior is adorned with golden mosaics and fine examples of Byzantine architecture. Another church worth a visit is Basilica dei Frari where Titian is buried. Please note: tidal flooding can occur at any time, especially between November and March, and entrance to some sights may be restricted.
Must buys
Romes designer shops span out from the Spanish Steps into Via Condotti, Via del Babbino and Via del Corso. Beautiful boutiques sell everything from soft leather shoes and bags to fine clothes. Ideal for gifts, the delicatessens sell assorted vinegars, truffles and olive oils.
Must tries
Italian favourites such as spaghetti carbonara, tortellini, gnocchi and ravioli feature on most menus. Look out, too, for fresh grilled squid and saltimbucca. A number of cafes and restaurants line the romantic Piazza Navona and the small streets around the Pantheon. To eat where the locals do, take a taxi to Trastevere (west of the River Tiber).
Must buys
You can do some serious souvenir shopping in the streets between St Marks Square and the Rialto Bridge. Look out for locally-crafted painted carnival masks, hand-painted fabric and Murano crystal. Designer shops are mainly between the train station and the square.
Must tries
Seafood features widely on Venices menus, and rice and beans are also staple ingredients. Pizza, pasta and risotto are popular dishes and are served almost everywhere. The tourist areas of Piazza San Marco and the Rialto have a selection of more expensive restaurants.
Piazza Navona
18
Florence
Birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is one of the worlds most exciting and exuberant cities with architectural treasures around virtually every corner. It is also blessed with the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Excursions
from Rome
Vatican Museums
Price: 25. Code: EI0S19. Pass several of Romes beautiful sights including Mermaids Fountain and the Villa Borghese en route to the Vatican Museums and Michelangelos Sistine Chapel. Finish with a visit to the Ancient Vatican Library. Duration: three hours (approximately). Departures: Monday-Saturday, leaving at 8.30am. Please note: this tour does not operate on Sundays or religious holidays. During busy periods there may be queues at the entrance of the Museums.
Monuments of Rome
Price: 20. Code: EI0S04. A tour around the major sites of Rome, including the Trevi Fountain, Castel Sant Angelo (ancient papal fortress), Via della Conciliazione, St Peters Basilica, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. Visits to St Peters Basilica are not possible on Sundays. Duration: four hours (approximately). Departures: daily, leaving at 8.30am. Please note: the visits to the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona are all made on foot.
from Venice
Getting around
The city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot, bicycle or scooter. There is also a good bus service with tickets and passes available from newsagents, coffee bars and machines these must be validated when you board. Taxis are easier to find at taxi ranks, as they do not always stop in the streets.
Venetian islands
Price: 15. Code: EI0S11. Take a motor boat ride from the Bay of Venice out into the open lagoon to Murano and stop at a glass factory. The ride continues to the Island of Burano and the Island of Torcello. Duration: three and a half hours (approximately). Departures: daily, leaving at 9.30am and 2.30pm.
Must sees
Theres so much to see in Florence that the difficulty will be squeezing everything in. A fitting place to start is the Uffizi Gallery, home to the Medici art collection and containing works by Botticelli, Da Vinci and Raphael. Michelangelos David is a star attraction, and now housed in the Galleria dellAccademia. Dominating the citys skyline is the Duomo climb the Campanile (bell tower) for amazing views of the city and look round the Baptistry, Florences oldest building. Another definite for your sightseeing agenda is the 14th-century Ponte Vecchio, the only bridge to escape bomb damage in World War II, and now lined with small shops selling gold and silver.
from Florence
City tour
Price: 35. Code: EI0S01. A fascinating tour of Florence, including the Cathedral and Baptistry, the Piazzale Michelangelo and entrance to a museum or art gallery. Duration: three hours (approximately). Departures: daily, leaving at 9.30am and 2.30pm. Please note: additional supplement may apply for museum entrance. The afternoon departure does not include a visit to the Cathedral and Piazzale Michelangelo, but includes a visit to Fiesole, Etruscan and the Franciscan church of Santa Croce.
Must buys
Look for bargains at the daily morning market in Piazza San Lorenzo and at the Straw Market. Good buys include baskets, leather goods, marbled stationery, silk and lace.
Must tries
From sandwich bars to pizzerias and cafes to fine restaurants, eateries are plentiful in Florence.
Pisa
Price: 35. Code: EI0S02. A guided tour of the Piazza dei Cavalieri on foot takes in the Scuola Normale. You then proceed to Piazza dei Miracoli to view the Leaning Tower (entrance not included), among other architectural splendours. Duration: five hours (approximately). Departures: daily, leaving at 2pm.
The Duomo
City breaks
19
Standard room
Hotel Montreal
This tastefully furnished, privately owned hotel is an ideal base for exploring the citys attractions. An outdoor terrace and television room make welcome additions.
AAa
AAA
This elegant, privately owned hotel is in the exclusive Parioli district, within easy reach of the main sights. Where: a few minutes from the Via Veneto and Borghese Gallery, and in front of the Villa Ada park. Top marks for: a peaceful and historic central location. Features: this high quality hotel with an elegant interior offers a bar, a comfortable lounge and an enclosed garden, which is an ideal place for relaxation. Buffet breakfast is included. Accommodation: 43 rooms with air-conditioning, telephone, satellite television, minibar and hairdryer. Official Category: 3 star.
Where: within walking distance of the Colosseum and Forum, and conveniently located for public transport. Top marks for: comfortable accommodation. Features: the Montreal offers attractive accommodation. Facilities include a coffee shop/bar, limited room service and laundry service. Continental breakfast is included. Accommodation: the 20 rooms each have telephone, television and minibar. Please note: air-conditioned rooms are available on request for a supplement of 11 per room, per day (payable direct to the hotel). Official Category: 3 star.
St Peters Basilica, Rome
specials specials
Free nights pay for four nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays 1 Jul-31 Aug 2006. Honeymooners couples receive a bottle of spumante in room on arrival.
FAVOURITE
Standard room
FAVOURITE
Standard room Standard room
Hotel Paris
AAA
Hotel Miami
AAA
Accademia Hotel
AAA
This small, compact hotel is located within easy reach of many of Romes famous sights and is an ideal base for exploring the city, with plenty of bars, restaurants and shops close by. Conveniently located, Hotel Paris is one of our favourites. Where: just off the Via Nazionale and close to the Piazza della Repubblica. Top marks for: offering a good value-for-money choice in a central position. Features: facilities on site include a breakfast room and an American bar. Continental breakfast is included. Accommodation: 27 rooms with air-conditioning, telephone, satellite television, minibar and in-room safe. Official Category: 3 star.
Recently refurbished, the Hotel Miami is to be found within a striking Umbertino building, facing one of the citys most beautiful streets. Friendly and relaxed, this is one of our favourite hotels in Rome. Where: in the historic centre of the city, only a short walk from the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum. Top marks for: charming accommodation near all the major sights. Features: this family-run hotel includes a breakfast room and concierge. Continental buffet breakfast is included. Accommodation: 48 rooms with air-conditioning, telephone, satellite television, minibar, in-room safe and hairdryer. Official Category: 3 star.
In an enviable position right in the middle of the city, this bright, friendly hotel couldnt be in a better location for exploring the Eternal City. Where: in a street behind the Trevi Fountain, close to the Spanish Steps and the prestigious shops on Via del Corso. Top marks for: a great position behind the Trevi Fountain. Features: the Accademia Hotel is brightly furnished and offers a spacious breakfast room where buffet breakfast is served. Accommodation: featuring 82 modern guest rooms, all with air-conditioning, telephone, television, Internet access, minibar, in-room safe and hairdryer. Official Category: 3 star.
specials
Free nights pay for three nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays 16 Jul-31 Aug 2006. Honeymooners couples receive a bottle of spumante and basket of fruit in room on arrival.
specials
Free nights pay for four nights or more and get one extra night free; valid for complete stays 15 Jul-31 Aug 2006.
20
FAVOURITE
Standard room Standard room
Hotel Oxford
AAAa
Marcella Royal
AAAA
AAAAa
With its recently refurbished bar and restaurant, this extremely friendly, family-run hotel offers a first-rate base from which to discover Rome. Where: just off the Via Veneto and close to Villa Borghese, close to plenty of dining and entertainment options. Top marks for: a good location and excellent service. Features: the Oxford features a restaurant, snack bar and bar, and there are various Internet points in the hotel (available at a charge). Breakfast is served buffet style. Accommodation: all 60 rooms have air-conditioning, telephone, satellite and pay-per-view television and minibar. Official Category: 3 star.
This beautifully decorated hotel is ideally situated for exploring the citys attractions. The views from the roof terrace make this a favourite. Where: in the heart of the city in the vicinity of the Villa Borghese and a short distance from the Via Veneto. Top marks for: stylish dcor and very friendly service. Features: refined yet comfortable, this hotel offers spectacular views of Rome from the roof garden where a buffet-style breakfast can be enjoyed. The American Bar is also located in the roof garden and is an ideal place to relax in throughout the day. Accommodation: the 85 elegantly furnished rooms are all air-conditioned and have telephone, modem plug, satellite television and in-room safe. Official Category: 4 star.
Where: close to the river, just off the Piazza del Popolo. Top marks for: its beautiful decoration and style. Features: this boutique hotel is adorned with antiques and paintings. The well-maintained public areas include a breakfast room, American bar, restaurant (closed during August) and terrace. Buffet breakfast is included. Accommodation: each of the 59 rooms is unique with hand-painted ceilings and has air-conditioning, telephone, television, minibar and in-room safe. Official Category: 4 star.
specials
Free nights pay for three nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays 10 Jul-10 Sep 2006. Honeymooners couples receive a bottle of spumante in room on arrival.
specials specials
Free nights pay for three nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays 16 Jul-31 Aug 2006. Free nights pay for three nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays 21 Jul-31 Aug 2006. Honeymooners couples receive a bottle of spumante in room on arrival.
HOTELS Hol Numbers Departure Date v 01 Apr-15 Jun 16 Jun-09 Jul 10 Jul-14 Jul 15 Jul-15 Jul 16 Jul-21 Jul 22 Jul-31 Aug 01 Sep-07 Sep 08 Sep-10 Sep 11 Sep-31 Oct Single supp. per nt
Hotel Montreal EIRH39 1 nt 190 190 187 187 187 187 190 190 190 from 57-61 Ex Nt 61 61 57 57 57 57 61 61 61
Hotel Panama Garden EIRH40 1 nt 210 186 186 186 179 179 210 210 210 from 48-85 Ex Nt 85 56 56 56 48 48 85 85 85 1 nt 190 190 187 187 187 187 190 190 190
Hotel Miami EIRH52 1 nt 190 190 187 187 187 187 190 190 190 from 57-61 Ex Nt 61 61 57 57 57 57 61 61 61
Accademia Hotel EIRH44 1 nt 210 210 210 210 207 199 210 210 210 from 72-85 Ex Nt 85 85 85 85 81 72 85 85 85
Hotel Oxford EIRH45 1 nt 219 219 192 192 192 192 192 192 219 from 64-96 Ex Nt 96 96 64 64 64 64 64 64 96
Marcella Royal EIRH42 1 nt 233 233 233 233 218 218 233 233 233 from 76-94 Ex Nt 94 94 94 94 76 76 94 94 94
River Palace Hotel EIRH49 1 nt 239 239 239 214 214 214 214 239 239 from 69-92 Ex Nt 92 92 92 69 69 69 69 92 92
Prices are in s per person based on two adults travelling by air in economy class (please see page 119 for transport details and supplements), and sharing a twin/double room including breakfast. All prices are based on the departure date from the UK, except extra night and hotel supplements, which are based on date of occupancy. v Please note: minimum stays may apply depending on departure date, these will be advised to you at the time of booking. Weekend supplement: 10 per person for Friday and Saturday departures. Seasonal supplement of 20 per person applies for departures: 13-17 Apr, 27 Apr-01 May, 25-29 May & 24-28 Aug. Standard Thomas Cook Signature booking conditions apply. For full details of these and other important information about your holiday, please refer to pages 168-171 of the current Thomas Cook Signature Cities brochure.
For the full range of city break hotels in Rome, Venice, Florence and many other cities worldwide, pick up the latest Thomas Cook Signature Cities & Short Breaks brochure from your local travel agent, order online at www.tcsignature.com, or call us on: 0870 443 4404
Please note: holidays on pages 18-23 are operated by Thomas Cook Signature Limited, ABTA W4498, ATOL 5624. Standard Thomas Cook Signature booking conditions apply. Please ask for a copy at the time of booking.
For our latest prices or to book visit your local travel agent
An oasis of calm in the centre of Rome, this lovely hotel envelopes its guests in a luxurious ambience. Built in a delightful, traditional style, it offers exemplary service, modern standards of facilities and beautifully decorated rooms.
Standard room
Standard room
Nuovo Teson
A central hotel, ideal for the budget-conscious traveller.
AA
Hotel Olimpia
AAA
Hotel Casanova
AAA
Where: off the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront, about 10 minutes walk from St Marks Square. Top marks for: offering great value for money. Features: the four-storey Nuovo Teson has no lift but boasts an attractive lounge and bar area with television. Continental breakfast is included. Accommodation: the 30 basic but comfortable rooms are equipped with a fan and telephone. Official Category: 2 star.
This lovely Venetian-style hotel is beautifully decorated and offers lovely rooms and a romantic ambience. Where: about 15 minutes walk from the Rialto Bridge. Top marks for: traditional Venetian charm. Features: facilities include a breakfast room, American bar and lounge, and private garden. Cold buffet breakfast is included. Accommodation: the 36 air-conditioned rooms have telephone, cable television, minibar, in-room safe and hairdryer. Official Category: 3 star.s
A well maintained hotel, the Casanova is decorated with a collection of church art and benches from old monasteries, giving the hotel a unique Venetian atmosphere. Where: only steps away from St Marks Square and within walking distance of the Rialto Bridge. Top marks for: personal service in a traditional setting. Features: the Casanova has a beamed lounge providing a welcoming meeting point, while its guest rooms are traditionally furnished and well equipped. Continental breakfast is included. Accommodation: the hotel has 50 rooms, each with air-conditioning, telephone, satellite television, minibar and hairdryer. Official Category: 3 star.
pecials
specials
Free nights pay for three nights or more and get one extra free; valid for Sun or Mon arrivals for complete stays 1 Jul-31 Aug 2006.
HOTELS
Nuovo Teson
Hol Numbers EIVH01 EIVH07 EIVH03 EIVH11 EIVH39 Departure Date v 01 Jul-15 Jul 1 Ex 1 Ex 1 Ex 1 Ex 1 Ex nt Nt nt Nt nt Nt nt Nt nt Nt 185 61 208 88 208 88 223 88 241 98
FAVOURITE
Standard room
01 Apr-30 Jun 195 73 208 88 224 106 244 109 276 130 16 Jul-31 Aug 185 61 191 67 208 88 223 88 241 98 01 Sep-31 Oct 195 73 208 88 224 106 244 109 276 130 Single supp. from per nt 61-73 from from from from 67-88 88-106 88-109 98-130
Prices are in s per person based on two adults travelling by air in economy class (please see page 119 for transport details and supplements), and sharing a twin/double room including breakfast. All prices are based on the departure date from the UK, except extra night and hotel supplements, which are based on date of occupancy. v Please note: minimum stays may apply depending on departure date, these will be advised to you at the time of booking. Weekend supplement: 10 per person for Friday and Saturday departures. Seasonal supplement of 20 per person applies for departures: 13-17 Apr, 27 Apr-01 May, 25-29 May & 24-28 Aug. #Hotel supplements per room per night apply: Hotel Casanova: 01 Jul 06, 31 Aug 06 36, Palace Bonvecchiati: 01 Jul 06 64. {Weekend supplements per room per night apply (Fri-Sat): Hotel Olimpia: 01 Apr-15 Jul 06, 01 Sep-31 Oct 06 28, 16 Jul-31 Aug 06 20, Palace Bonvecchiati: 01 Apr-31 Oct 06 42. Standard Thomas Cook Signature booking conditions apply. For full details of these and other important information about your holiday, please refer to pages 168-171 of the current Thomas Cook Signature Cities brochure.
Hotel Kette
AAAA
Palace Bonvecchiati
AAAAa
Beautifully decorated and surprisingly spacious, the family owned Kette offers comfortable accommodation combined with friendly service. This favourite of ours is both elegant and comfortable. Where: on a side street close to the Piazza San Marco and the La Fenice theatre. Top marks for: impressive hospitality. Features: the hotel has a smartly furnished reception area/lobby. Facilities include two lounges, Internet access, a bar and a ground floor breakfast room where buffet breakfast is served. Accommodation: the 63 stylishly decorated bedrooms are air-conditioned and have telephone, satellite television, minibar, in-room safe and hairdryer. Official Category: 4 star.
This new luxury property, one of a kind in Venice, offers contemporary elegance and a great selection of facilities in delightful contrast to the history that surrounds it. Where: in between St Marks Square and the Rialto Bridge in the heart of Venice. Top marks for: unique style and individuality. Features: providing all-round comfort with a modern ambience, Palace Bonvecchiati offers a restaurant, bar, sauna, fitness facilities, complimentary access to the Lido golf club and room service. American buffet breakfast is included. Accommodation: the 57 modern yet elegant rooms have telephone with fax, cable television with LCD screen, Internet access, minibar, in-room safe, bathrobe, slippers and hairdryer. Official Category: 4 star.
specials
Free nights pay for two nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays Sun-Thu within 2 Jul-31 Aug 2006.
22
Standard room
Standard room
Ariele
AAa
AAA
AAAA
Where: in a quiet residential area, about 10 minutes walk along the river from the centre of Florence. Top marks for: the home-from-home Italian style. Features: elegantly furnished in period style, the Ariele has a breakfast room, a comfortable lounge and bar, and a pretty courtyard garden. Continental breakfast is included. Accommodation: the 42 rooms all have air-conditioning, telephone, satellite television, in-room safe and hairdryer. Please note: there is one garden room that clients may be accommodated in (summer months only). Official Category: 3 star.
Beautifully decorated in an opulent, traditional style, this 17th-century palace retains many of its original wood-carvings and frescoes. Where: only five minutes walk from the Duomo and the main train station and close to the colourful San Lorenzo market. Top marks for: its busy, central position. Features: the Machiavelli building was a convent in the citys oldest quarter. With attractive dcor, it features a small lounge bar with Internet access and an airy breakfast room with breakfast buffets. Accommodation: 90 air-conditioned rooms, each with telephone, television, minibar, in-room safe and hairdryer. Official Category: 3 star.
Where: within 15 minutes walk of the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and Uffizi Gallery, with elegant shops nearby. Top marks for: good facilities. Features: the hotel has two restaurants, which offer a varied menu with good quality Italian cuisine, an American bar, breakfast room and garden. American-style buffet breakfast is included. Accommodation: 129 rooms with air-conditioning, telephone, satellite television with pay-per-view channels, minibar, in-room safe, trouser press and hairdryer. Official Category: 4 star.
specials
Free nights pay for three nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays 8 Jul-31 Aug 2006.
specials
Honeymooners couples receive a bottle of sparkling wine in room on arrival.
specials
Free nights pay for three nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays 9 Jul-7 Sep 2006.
HOTELS Ariele Hotel Grand San Hotel Machiavelli Hotel Gallo Brunelleschi Palace# Adriatico# Palace# #
01 Apr-30 Apr 222 65 230 70 230 70 240 73 257 90 01 May-30 Jun 222 65 230 70 235 75 242 75 264 97 01 Jul-08 Jul
FAVOURITE
Standard room Standard room
222 65 230 70 235 75 242 75 264 97 214 56 207 50 216 49 216 49 233 66
09 Jul-31 Jul
01 Aug-31 Aug 214 56 207 50 216 49 216 49 233 66 01 Sep-10 Sep 222 65 207 50 216 49 216 49 264 97 11 Sep-31 Oct 222 65 230 70 230 70 242 75 264 97 from 49-75 from from 49-75 66-97 Single supp. from from per nt 56-65 50-70
AAAA
Hotel Brunelleschi
With its historic structure and architectural characteristics, this is one of our favourites.
AAAA
Opened in 2003, this fine hotel blends modern features with a historic location overlooking the San Gallo gate. Where: in Piazza della Liberta, just 10 minutes from San Marco church and the famous statue of David. Top marks for: modern elegance. Features: an American bar offering excellent service, a peaceful internal garden and public areas with Internet access. Buffet breakfast is included. Accommodation: 56 brightly decorated rooms with air-conditioning, telephone, satellite television with pay-per-view channels, Internet access, radio, minibar, in-room safe, trouser press and hairdryer. Official Category: 4 star.
This unique hotel blends beautifully decorated guest rooms and modern facilities with ancient features.
Where: situated in a small, tranquil square in the heart of Renaissance Florence, close to the Duomo. Top marks for: uniting the ancient and contemporary. Features: a restaurant, bar, terrace with city views, small underground museum and an Internet corner in the library lounge. Buffet breakfast is included. Accommodation: 96 air-conditioned rooms with telephone, cable television, minibar, in-room safe and hairdryer. Official Category: 4 star.
specials
Free nights pay for three nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays 9 Jul-7 Sep 2006.
specials
Free nights pay for three nights or more and get one extra free; valid for complete stays 25 Jul-25 Aug 2006.
Prices are in s per person based on two adults travelling by air in economy class (please see page 119 for transport details and supplements), and sharing a twin/double room including breakfast. All prices are based on the departure date from the UK, except extra night and hotel supplements, which are based on date of occupancy. v Please note: minimum stays may apply depending on departure date, these will be advised to you at the time of booking. Weekend supplement: 10 per person for Friday and Saturday departures. Seasonal supplement of 20 per person applies for departures: 13-17 Apr, 27 Apr-01 May, 25-29 May & 24-28 Aug. #Hotel supplements per room per night apply: Hotel Machiavelli Palace: 08 Jul 06 56, Grand Hotel Adriatico: 08-10 Sep 06 52, San Gallo Palace : 08-10 Sep 06 52, Hotel Brunelleschi: 09-10 Jul 06 62. Standard Thomas Cook Signature booking conditions apply. For full details of these and other important information about your holiday, please refer to pages 168-171 of the current Thomas Cook Signature Cities brochure.
For our latest prices or to book visit your local travel agent
The family-owned Ariele offers a comfortable setting in which to relax after a busy days sightseeing.
Recently refurbished, this large and comfortable hotel provides good quality accommodation in the city centre.
Lake Garda
Poets have long been inspired by the Italian lakes and its easy to see why. Clear waters, picture postcard scenery, stylish villas and medieval castles all vie
Lake Garda
for attention. The largest and perhaps the most dramatic of the Italian lakes, Garda offers visitors an enchanting blend of activity and tranquillity.
LAKE GARDA AT A GLANCE
Flight details: Flights for Lake Garda are to Verona and take approx. 2 hours. See the flights section at the back of the brochure for details. Around and about: Discover medieval castles, wonderful architecture, pretty squares and spectacular gardens such as the Parco Giardino Sigurta, acclaimed as one of the five most beautiful in the world. Getting about: Ferries and steamers operate between all the towns and resorts on Lake Garda, offering an easy and scenic form of local transport.
Riva Limone Torbole
LAKE GAR DA
Sirmione
Things to do: Activities include walking, climbing Mount Baldo (730m) from Malcesine, mountain biking, windsurfing, canoeing, sailing, kite surfing, rafting and paragliding. Thrills and spills: A variety of theme parks include Gardaland (featuring the Jungle Express, Flying Island and Magic House), and CanevaWorld comprising Movie Studios (an MGM-style park) and Aqua Paradise, one of the largest water parks in the area. Places to visit: Florence, Venice, Milan, Innsbruck and Verona are all within easy reach. Local cuisine: Locally caught fresh-water fish, braised beef in red Barolo wine, pollo alla marengo (chicken in white wine, mushrooms, tomatoes and garlic), risotto and agnolotti (ravioli stuffed with truffles or spinach). Try gianduia, chocolate pudding for dessert.
96
Currency: Euro Please note that credit cards and travellers cheques are not widely accepted in restaurants, bars and some hotels. We recommend therefore you take some other form of currency when eating and drinking out.
Average daily max temperature (C) 35 30 25 20 15 10
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct
24
Venice Away-Day
A day dedicated to the famous lagoon city of Venice. You will take a journey by private motor boat from the parking area to the centre of Venice, where famous squares and sights are linked by canals, quite alleys and age-old bridges. Approx 46 euros adults / 23 euros children.
Romantic Verona
Explore the romantic city of the Della Scala family. Your guide will take you on a sightseeing tour by bus or on foot to the Piazza Bra home to the historical centre and the famous Arena. Approx 33 euros adults / 17 euros children.
There is literally something for everyone here, from leisurely strolls around the shores and cobbled streets and people-watching from the many lakeside cafes, through to a host of activities and watersports and a variety of theme parks. Whether you choose to stay in the lively south, the lush and hilly heart punctuated by olive and lemon groves, or the spectacular north nestling in the rocky foothills of the Dolomites, youll find each resort has its own particular charm.
Wine Tasting
Visit wine yard Maso Roveri along the Adige Valley. Not only will you taste Trentino wines, but you will be shown techniques of making it. Approx 32 euros adults
Gardone Riviera
Gardone Riviera consists of eight smaller villages scattered around the lower half of Lake Garda and is often referred to as the Garden city. There is a small selection of restaurants and cafs and several hotels which open their restaurants to the public. The resort is popular with locals and hosts a large disco and other evening entertainment includes ballets, concerts and theatre productions. Transfer from airport: approx 2hrs
Gardone Riviera
Bardolino
Situated at the foot of gentle hills blanketed by vines and olive groves, Bardolino has one of the mildest climates on the lake. It is great for enjoying gentle walks around the village or along the lakeside promenade to Garda. The village is famous for its wines
and the traffic free centre has an excellent choice of restaurants. There is a shingle beach, ideal for bathing. The main street has a selection of shops on one side, whilst the other side is lined with typically Italian cafs and restaurants. Transfer from airport: approx 1hr 30 mins
Lake Garda
25
Riva
Lake Garda
Garda
This delightful old town has a charm and character that is impossible to resist. Cobbled streets are interspersed with quaint old shops, elegant boutiques and restaurants. Olive groves, vineyards and conifers adorn the mountainside behind and the lake front promenade has pavement cafs where visitors can admire the colourful fishing vessels at their moorings in the little port. Shingle beaches offer safe bathing in the lakes clear waters and lake steamers depart regularly for other villages along the shoreline. Transfer from airport: approx 1hr 30 mins.
Malcesine
Originally a fishing village, this popular resort has retained much of its medieval charm with picturesque houses, narrow cobbled streets and quaint alleyways clustering around the 13th century Scaligero castle. The village has an attractive harbour lined with cafs and bars. The shingle beaches are ideal for swimming and the cooling breezes make this area a haven for sailing and windsurfing enthusiasts. Transfer from airport: approx 2hrs.
Riva
Riva is surrounded by rich vegetation: olive, lemon, palm and laurel trees, which brighten up the changing landscape as the fields give way to the dominance of the mountains. Riva is a town with beautiful architecture, and the old town dates back to the 12th century. Visitors will delight in exploring the many lakeside areas filled with sophisticated shops. The colourful, bustling square is a perfect spot for a drink while watching the sun set behind the mountains. Transfer from airport: approx 2hrs 30mins.
Malcesine
26
Verona
Malcesine Verona
Limone
As its name would suggest, Limone is well-known for its past cultivation of lemons and is a small village built by the lake and very close to the mountains. Its ancient centre and buildings are of Venetian origin and were a place of inspiration for famous names such as Goethe. The atmosphere is one of relaxation making it a good resort to get away and have a rest. There is a choice of restaurants and some open-air cafs. Transfer from airport: approx 3hrs
Weddings
Thomas Cook is pleased to offer wedding packages at: Parc Hotel Gritti page 29 Astoria Hotel page 35 Sole Hotel page 37 and Splendid Palace Hotel page 41 For full details please see our Weddings brochure or contact our weddings department on 0870 010 4592.
Lake Garda
27
Caption
Lake Garda
Galeazzi Hotel