Italia

Group travel to since 1985 2016 - 2017 Il viaggio è lo scopo The journey is the aim

Already in its third decade, ours is a journey of Tour icons discovery of all that the immense legacy of Italy has to off er. We have always loved Italy, rightfully so since it is “the most beautiful country in the world”. The Great Beauty of Italy can certainly be found in the celebrated wonders everyone is familiar with, such as the Milan Cathedral, Arrival by bus , the Uffi zi Gallery in Florence, the Imperial Forum in , the island of Capri, and Etna. Yet, there are hidden treasures of all dimensions that enrich every Arrival by plane corner of the country. That is precisely what our journey and our destination is about: The best of getting visitors more involved in the infi nite number of discoveries Italian food and that make our country unique in all the world. wine tradition We guide you through nature, culture, good food, age-old skills, or in other words, through a sea of emotions that only a trip to Classics Italy can deliver.

We work with passion and professionality, we’ve done so for over Experience 30 years.

Active travels

Claudio Scalambrin Owner & Managing Director

2 | Tel +39 0183 548 1 - Fax: +39 0183 548 222 - info @gadis.it Index Lombardia, Lago Maggiore Team [email protected] Piemonte, Lucia Who is taking care Liguria & Côte d’Azur +39 0183 548 413 of your groups Noemi [email protected] +39 0183 548 412 Marta Trentino, Veneto, +39 0183 548 202 Friuli Venezia Giulia, TrentinoTTrentino AltoAlto Adige Patrizia LombardiaLago di Garda +39 0183 548Aosta 208 Friuli [email protected] Lombardia Veneziaia Giulia Maria Veneto +39 0183 548 510 PiemontePi t Michela +39 0183 548 511

Côte d’Azur Liguria Emilia Romagna

Emilia Romagna, Toscana Toscana, Marche, Umbria

Marche [email protected]

Umbria Monica +39 0183 548 313

Corsica Roswitha +39 0183 548 312 Sardegna & Corsica Lazio [email protected] AbruzzoAbbruuzzo Veronica +39 0183 548 316 Molise

Rita Puglia +39 0183 548 315 Sardegna Lazio [email protected] Campania Graziano +39 0183 548 611 Basilicata

Calabria Abruzzo, Molise, Campania Puglia, Calabria & Sicilia, Sales Tour Italien [email protected] [email protected] Vittoria Fabiola +39 0183 548 206 Sicilia +39 0183 548 201 Jolanda +39 0183 548 205

| 3 Piemonte , a classic evergreen! Barolo, Barbaresco, Barbera, Dolcetto are only some of the names of the many important wines from Piedmont that are well-known all over the world. A refi ned tour on the trail of the work, passion and devotion hidden in every bottle of these precious wines. Hillsides studded with provide the striking background for this tour, which takes us on a journey in pursuit of wine and the many other delicious local products from the and Monferrato that you will not be able to resist tak- ing home with you. extraordinary hillside landscape full of vineyards, farms, castles and fortresses which makes for a truly Programme details unforgettable experience. In the morning, a visit to Alba, Cookery Course the city of one hundred towers and the heart of truffl e featuring dishes • 4 Nights in B&B in a 4 Hotel in the territory. The afternoon will be spent discovering the from Piedmont Alessandria area hazelnuts of Piedmont with a visit to a rural production with its . Buff et tasting session with hazelnuts Tip • Large buff et breakfast with a wide selection and home-made cakes: "Nocciola IGP Tonda Gentile • 3 dinners at the hotel, based on a 3-course delle Langhe". Roasted hazelnuts, hazelnuts covered menu in chocolate (from October to March), hazelnut cakes • 1 dinner in a rustic restaurant with tasting of and biscuits produced locally. Dinner in the hotel and 6 wines overnight accommodation. Day 3 After a large breakfast in the hotel we set • Full day guided tour to Alba and Langhe region off to discoverMonferrato , another vine-clad area of • Visit to a hazelnut plantation with a short Piedmont, to immerse ourselves in the tasty, striking tasting session atmosphere of the Canelli wine cellar, also known as the "Underground Cathedral" and taste the sparkling wine Learn the most traditional recipes of cooks from • Visit to a nougat factory, whit sparkling wine made there using the traditional production method tasting Piedmont in a triumph of taste garnished with from Piedmont. stories and fun. Followed by dinner with all the • Full day guided tour to Monferrato, Canelli, Stop at a traditional distillery nearby with an opportu- participants and tasting of a large selection of tour of a distillery with a chance to taste nity to taste grappa. wines. grappa Dinner at a family restaurant in the countryside with • Full day guided tour of Casale and visit to a wine tasting. Return to the hotel and overnight accom- Castello Grinzane modation. rice plantation Cavour Day 4 After a large breakfast in the hotel we leave • Lunch at a rice plantation on a guided tour that takes us to Casale Monferrato Tip where we can admire the Cathedral, the monuments Package price per person 5 days from the Renaissance and one of the most beautiful synagogues in Europe. We then continue until we reach from € 289 Desana, the rice centre of Piedmont. Visit to a rice fi eld with lunch. Excellent rice is grown in the farm, such as Day 1 Arrival and settling into hotel in the Alessan- Carnaroli, Baldo, Vialone Nano and Balilla. After the visit, dria area for 4 nights. Dinner and overnight accommoda- an obligatory traditional Risotto is on the menu to keep tion. . our appetites at bay. Dinner in the hotel and overnight Day 2 Alba, Langhe accommodation. The fi rst stop on this tour is the famous Langhe, the Day 5 Departure for the return trip. 4-course dinner accompanied by wine in the spec- tacular Grinzane-Cavour castle in a truly princely atmosphere.

4 | Contact: Marta & Patrizia • +39 0183 548 202 • [email protected] Liguria

Activity at the centre

Countryside and Day 3 culture of the Riviera A journey to discover the many and fascinating aspects of the Italian Riviera and the French Riviera, luxuriant with lemon trees and aromatic herbs, hills covered in olive tree groves. The famous focaccia of Pieve di Teco; the scent of olive oil and the love of the inhabitants for their area. After having gathered Mediterranean aromatic together, you will be able to create a paste the typical black bread of Pieve di Teco is baked, together of mixed fl avours using a pestle and mortar. As a Programme details with the famous "Focaccia" (weekly market every Tues- taste of the Mediterranean Sea to use in your fa- day). You will move on to Albenga which, thanks to its vourite recipes! • 4 nights HB a 4 hotel on the Riviera dei numerous towers, has kept its medieval charm. After the Fiori visit, you will come to an olive-oil mill in the Albenga Riviera of the Palms - • Full day tour escort for "Villas and Gardens" area for a tasting involving typical Ligurian specialities. The Hellebore Gardens Day 3 Flowers and spices • Full day tour escort trip for "Hinterland of Departure after breakfast for Capo Mortola and a guid- fl avours", the opportunity to buy typical ed tour or the Hanbury Gardens. The gardens date back products in Pieve di Teco (possible at the to 1867 when Sir Thomas Hanbury designed this mas- weekly market on Tuesdays) terpiece, with breath-taking views of the sea. You will • Visit to an olive-oil mill with a tasting of oil then visit the garden centre to get to know the typical Tip and typical Ligurian products plants of Liguria. • Full day tour escort for "Flowers and Spices" Accompanied by an expert, you will visit the greenhous- es there the lemon trees are grown and the visit will end Typical (with gardens, vegetables • Visit to a garden centre, citrus and fruit) surrounded by high stone walls, with a and tasting of unusual marmalades with a tasting of a very special, delicious bitter orange marmalade. Lastly, there will be a short group activity. well established collection of hellebores, started • Activity at the garden centre "How to prepare 44 years ago and containing more than 350 dif- Day 4 The villas aromatic salt" ferent types which provide a splendid show when Breakfast in the hotel. The day will be devoted to dis- they are in bloom in the winter. A new experience, • Entrance to the Hanbury Gardens covering the Principality of Monaco with a visit to the explained by the actual grower (February-March). • Entrance to the Prince's Palace of Monaco ancient town and the royal residence built on the Rock • Entrance to the Ephrussi-de-Rothschild Villa of Monaco. The visit to the palace is a journey back in Cap Ferrat - Villa and Gardens with an audio guide time through the centuries, from the Renaissance to the Ephrussie de Rotschild • Napoleonic era. The imposing spiral staircase leading to Package price per person 5 days the state apartments, the 16th century frescoes decorat- ing the rooms and the choir room enchant guests and from € 239 visitors alike. Onwards in the early afternoon towards St. Jean Cap Day 4 Ferrat, to visit the Ephrussi-de-Rothschild Villa with Day 1 Arrival at the Italian Riviera, check into hotel, its seven hectares of enchanting gardens with an audio dinner and overnight stay. In the splendour of the Cap Ferrat countryside, in guide. The park includes the French Garden, with musi- 1905 the Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild Day 2 The hinterland of fl avours cal fountains and a temple o love, the Spanish Garden, chose the Italian style palace to house her private Departure after breakfast for Val d'Arroscia in the di- the Florentine Garden, the and the art collection (mosaics, Flemish tapestries, por- rection of Pieve di Teco: an old settlement with an en- , the favourite of Baroness Ephrussi. celain and furniture), which contains more than chanting Augustinian convent. Together with an expert Day 5 Breakfast and departure for the return journey. 5000 pieces. From the magnifi cent gardens there guide, you will discover the traditional bakeries where is a view of the house overlooking the sea and the bays of Villefranche and Beaulieu. Contact: Marta & Patrizia • +39 0183 548 202 • [email protected] | 5 Liguria

Liguria - Tasting tour Breath-taking views, looking out onto a deep turquoise coloured sea. Villages of fi shermen and hamlets nestling, as if by magic, on steep hills with olive tree Albenga - Espresso or groves, painstakingly cultivated on stone terraces. Liguria is a region that has Cappuccino? always held a fascination: for poets, writers and artists. Not only because of the sublime beauty of its countryside, but also because of its authentic, rural cuisine, with ancient and honest fl avours. A journey that must be sampled, from Ponente to Levante, taking in the wide variety of cuisines, off ered by this marvellous region. Day 4 Programme details • Tasting of 3 wines from Liguria di Levante Excursion to an excellent coff ee shop to get to • 3 Nights HB in a good 3 hotel in Diano know how coff ee is roasted and mixed to create Marina - Alassio with local salamis, frittata, focaccia and a Italian espresso. The visit ends in an elegant • Welcome drink other Ligurian specialities bar to sample a coff ee or cappuccino with a fresh • Full day guided tour of , brioche. • 3 nights HB in a good 3 hotel in Chiavari - Moneglia and La Spezia • Boat trip to Manarola, Riomaggiore, La Spezia • Full day guided tour of Sanremo Sestri Levante - Pesto and Dolceacqua • Tasting of Recco focaccia and a glass of wine preparation course • Tasting of typical products and wine • Stop at an outlet on the Riviera di Levante • Full day guided tour of "Valle Impero", Package price per person 7 days Pieve di Teco and Cervo • Visit to an olive-oil mill and oil tasting from € 389 • Pasta Party dinner price for 3 winnesr Arrival by bus drinks included • Including bus transfer and assistance on ar- • Full day guided tour of Alassio and Albenga rival and departure • Visit to a coff ee shop • Including bus service for 5 days as outlined in Day 5 • Stop for a cappuccino/espresso and croissant the programme • Full day guided tour of Rapallo, Portofi no and Package price per person 7 days In a typical restaurant, armed with a pestle and Sestri Levanteeistungen mortar, basil, olive oil, pine nuts and some other family secrets, to produce the real Ligurian pesto. • Pesto - preparation course from € 569 Together with tasty antipasti all you need is an Arrival by plane aromatic local wine! 6 | Contact: Marta & Patrizia • +39 0183 548 202 • [email protected] Liguria

Riviera di Levante Focaccia di Recco

Day 6

Day 1 Arrival. Check into hotel on the Riviera di Po- Day 4 Alassio and Riviera di Levante nente for 3 nights on half-board. Departure after breakfast in the direction of Alassio, a Day 2 Sanremo and Dolceacqua cultured place famous for its beaches and monuments Departure after breakfast for Sanremo, rich with ex- like the "Muretto", the symbol of the town. On to Al- A simple recipe, best-quality fl avours and the amples of the liberty style like historical hotels, villas benga, to visit a very high quality coff ee shop and have a jewel in the crown of Ligurian cuisine: fl our, water, and the casino, also famous for its Russian church. Late coff ee or a cappuccino and a tasty brioche. salt, olive oil and fresh cheese are skilfully com- morning, on to Dolceacqua,an enchanting village go- Then on to a hotel on the Riviera di Levante in Chiavari- bined to create the famous cheese focaccia, which ing back to the 12th century with a visit to the village Moneglia for 3 nights on half-board. originally comes from Recco in Liguria. Together with a good wine, success is guaranteed! and its narrow, picturesque streets. Following the vis- Day 5 Rapallo - Portofi no - Sestri Levante its, plentiful refreshments accompanied by wines from Departure after breakfast for Sestri Levante, the pearl the Riviera di Ponente. Return to the hotel, dinner and of the Gulf of Tigullio nestling between the two famous overnight stay. bays, the Baia delle Favole and the Baia del Silenzio. Arrival by coach at Manarola, the most important wine- Day 3 Valle Impero - Pieve di Teco - Cervo During the visit to Sestri you can see how the famous producing village in . After the visit, depar- Departure after breakfast heading towards the Imperia Ligurian pesto is prepared, together with a tasting of 3 ture by boat for Riomaggiore, the picturesque village hinterland, an area with many olive tree groves. Stop local wines, vegetable fritters, focaccia and other deli- with pastel-coloured houses and rises and falls between at a working olive-oil mill to get to know the sublime cacies. On to Rapallo and a stroll along its enchanting the marina and the village. local oil and other products. Continuing with a visit to seafront promenade, where you will catch the boat to On to La Spezia, to taste the focaccia with cheese and Pieve di Teco, where the largest monastery of Liguria Portofi no from. After the visit, free time to discover the enjoy a glass of wine. On the way back, a stop at an out- di Ponente can be found. Stop at the "Da Elvira" restau- beauty of one of the most enchanting and famous vil- let where you can fi nd excellent bargains on designer rant, the winner of many awards, for a tasty lunch with lages in the world. clothing. entertainment. On to Cervo in the afternoon, a fi shing Day 6 5 Terre, Manarola, Riomaggiore, La Spezia Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay. village built on a rock in the sea, as pretty as a picture. Departure after breakfast for Cinque Terre, to visit an Day 7 Return. Breakfast and departure for the return The church enjoys a breath-taking view over area of great beauty with breath-taking contrasts. journey. the bays of Diano Marina. Steep hills which appear to sink into the sea, covered in Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay. vines in harsh land that has been painstakingly altered by man.

Contact: Marta & Patrizia • +39 0183 548 202 • [email protected] | 7 Côte d’Azur Getaway break to the Flower Riviera Monaco, Monte-Carlo, Nice and Cannes. Four of the most striking and enthralling tourist destinations on the French Riviera, with breathtaking scenery that everyone dreams of seeing and photographing. A trip not to be missed, at a price you cannot aff ord not to pay, staying in the charming Riviera of Flowers. The perfect way to celebrate a special event, spoil a friend or loved one, or perhaps simply spoil yourself.

Day 1 Arrival and settling into hotel. Programme details Day 2 Monaco - Monte-Carlo Monaco Grace Kelly, After breakfast, departure for Monaco. Short stop at Eze Princess of roses • 3 nights HB in a good 3 hotel on the Riviera to visit a perfume factory on the way. Arrival in Monaco, of Flowers jewel of the French Riviera and visit to the ancient city, where the Princes live, with the Cathedral containing the Day 2 • Buff et breakfast with large selection tombs of the members of the Royal Family. • Welcome drink The tour continues in nearby Monte Carlo with its fa- • 1 typical dinner in restaurant (instead of din- mous "Hotel de Paris" and the Casino, surrounded by ner at the hotel) luxury cars, elegance and high society. Visit to the rose garden in Fontvielle, dedicated to Prin- • Full day guided tour Monaco and Monte-Carlo cess Grace, where the "Grace Kelly" rose is grown. • Visit to the Rose Garden Grace Kelly Day 3 Nizza - Cannes • Visit to the famous perfume factory in Eze After breakfast, departure for Nice, famous for its es- Village planade, known as the "Promenade des Anglais" and its • Full day guided tour of Nice and Cannes characteristic historical centre with its fl ower market. Created in honour of Princess Grace, the garden The tour continues along the coast and arrives in Cannes, contains 4,000 types of roses of 150 diff erent spe- Package price per person 4 days the elegant city of the French Riviera, also well-known cies, including the "Princesse de Monaco" rose for its fi lm festival. which was Grace Kelly's favourite. The garden has from € 109 The Lerins islands, its striking bay with fi ne sand and been designed in the shape of a rose with nine dream homes have made Cannes the most famous jet- petals and a statue of the princess in the middle. set destination in the world. Day 4 Côte d‘Azur - Carnival Breakfast and departure for the return journey. of the Riviera 2016

Tip

Carnival in Nizza: „Blumenschlacht“, jeden Car- nival in Nice with the "Battle of the fl owers": every Saturday from 12 to 18 February 2016 Lemon festival in Mentone: parade and historical procession with allegorical fl oats, every Saturday from 13 February to 2 March 2016 Float procession in Sanremo: fi rst Sunday in March 2016

8 | Contact: Marta & Patrizia • +39 0183 548 202 • [email protected] Lombardia

Milan, metropolis of Expo In 2015 for the Universal Exposition the world's spotlights were focused on Mi- lan, which has welcomed millions of visitors and became the beating heart of Leonardo da Vinci culture and tourism, capturing the attention of people from all over the world. Day 2 Famous sources such as the Lonely Planet and the New York Times have rated Milan as one of the top 5 destinations in the world. And this is a good enough reason for fi nally visiting this city which is so charming and multi-faceted.

Programme details Day 1 Arrival at Milan airport, assistance, reception and guided tour of the city by coach. Transfer to the hotel. • 2 Nights B&B in einem 4 Hotel in Milan Day 2 After breakfast, meeting with local guide and • Transfer Malpensa-Hotel in Milan, including a coach transfer into the centre to discover the city's most panoramic tour of the city important attractions. Visit to the Sforzesco Castle, one • Assistant to help you on your arrival in the of Milan's most famous monuments. In its halls visitors Don't miss the works of Leonardo da Vinci, dis- can admire masterpieces such as Michelangelo's Pietà covered only a short while ago in a hall of the airport and during the panoramic tour Sforzesco Castle. • Full day guide for the tour of Milan Rondanini and the frescoes by Leonardo da Vinci. The • Full day bus hire for the tour of Milan tour continues on foot with a pleasant stroll towards V. Emanuele Gallery the Cathedral and the Vittorio Emanuele Gallery, as far • Admission to the Museum of ancient art in the as Piazza della Scala, where a visit to the museum in the Sforzesco Castle theatre is scheduled. The last stop is the monumental Day 2 • Earphones for the tour of the Cathedral cemetery and later there will be free time for shopping • Admission to the Museum of Teatro alla Scala and individual tours. • Transfer Hotel - Malpensa airport Day 3 After breakfast, departure for the return jour- Package price per person 3 days ney. from € 184

A stroll through this famous gallery fi nely re- stored in honour of Expo, with an obligatory stop at the Camparino bar to sip an aperitif!

Contact: Lucia & Noemi • +39 0183 548 410 • [email protected] | 9 Lago Maggiore Lake Maggiore and Centovalli

A journey through nature, culture and history. Even for a short stay, Lake Maggiore off ers a wide variety of emo- tions of all kinds. From the unspoilt alpine valleys to the history-fi lled palaces, the stunning religious sites of the Sacri Monti, not forgetting the Centovalli train journey, one of the most beautiful railway excursions through the Alps. passing through alluring scenery dominated by wood- land, wild mountains, streams and waterfalls. Totally Sacro Monte di Varallo Programme details immersed in nature, you have the opportunity of seeing breath-taking views from close by. After passing through • 4 Nights HB in a good 3 Hotel near Lake the Vigezzo Valley, the Treno blu (tourist train) goes into Day 4 Maggiore the Swiss part of Centovalli in the direction of Locarno. • Full day guided tour of Centovalli On arrival in Locarno there is a visit of the town. Nestling • Train through Centovalli from Locarno to on the edge of the northern shores of Lake Maggiore, Lo- Domossola carno is the warmest town in the whole of . Return to Italy and a stop at a farm specialised in the pro- • Visit to the factories producing typical Os- duction of typical products where you will visit the arti- solano products with tastings san factories and the museum displaying old equipment The visit to this religious monument is always a • Full day guided tour of the Borromean Islands of the culinary art of Val d'Ossola. Followed by a tasting source of great surprises. Next to the basilica are and Stresa of typical products including delicacies in small pots. Re- 45 shrines with frescoes decorated with over 800 turn to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay. • Boat trip to Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori & life-size statues. On account of its historical and Day 3 Departure after breakfast from Bevano, an artistic importance it has been declared a UNESCO Isola Madre enjoyable visit to the Borromean Islands, real open air world heritage site • Entrance to the Isola Bella and Isola Madre museums. Isola Bella with the Borromean Palace, Isola Palaces and gardens Madre with its luxuriant vegetation and Isola dei Pesca- • Full day guided tour of Sacro Monte di Varallo tori which, as its name suggests, is a popular destination for day-trippers. The excursion concludes with a stop in A leap into the past and Lago d'Orta Stresa, which boasts some of the most beautiful lake- • Funivia Varallo side villas, and is the queen of Lake Maggiore situated • Coff ee break in a magnifi cent position under the green slopes of Mot- tarone with a commanding view. Package price per person 5 days Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay. Day 4 Departure after breakfast with a guide for a trip from € 207 to Sacro Monte di Varallo, considered to be one of the most important religious sites in Italy. On returning, a Tip Day 1 Arrival at the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay. pleasant stop at Lake Orta to enjoy a cappuccino or an espresso. Day 2 Departure after breakfast with a guide for a trip to Centovalli. The train departs from Domodossola, Day 5 Departure after breakfast. If you go to Baveno in mid December, stop on the Sunday and spend a few hours with its inhabitants for "Un salto nel passato" (a leap into the past), a very lively event devoted to the old professions which livens up the whole town. As the Michelin guide says "It's worth the trip"

10 | Contact: Lucia & Noemi • +39 0183 548 410 • [email protected] Veneto

Veneto, All in one The best of the Veneto region in one unique trip. From Venice to , following the roads of Proseco and the Ville Venete. Revel in the pleasure of uniting the cultural and historical beauty of this region with the culinary delicacies of the territory. An unforgettable tour which is always hugely successful. out from the Rocca, a 12th century fort, every nook and for a visit and tasting. Return to the hotel, dinner, and Programme details cranny of the city testifi es to its thousand-year history. overnight stay. During the guided tour and at the end we will visit Bas- Day 7 After breakfast, departure for the guided tour • 7 nights HB in a 4hotel in Bassano sano del Grappa (guided tour) and the Grappa Muse- of Villa La Rotonda. Its architecture is in harmony with um. At the end of the visit, a tasting. Return to the hotel, the landscape, qualifying and qualifi ed by it, inserting • 6 full day Tour escorts dinner, and overnight stay. itself with its rigorously geometric framework, its ratio- • Entry to Villa Barbaro di Maser Day 3 After breakfast we walk to the Bassano station nal lines, and the simplicity of its forms in the wide and • Entry to the Grappa Museum to take the train to Venice, the gem of Italian tourism, gentle curves of the Venetian landscape, among hills, where churches, buildings, ancient bridges, monu- plains, and rivers. Continuing on to Vicenza for a guided • Roundtrip train ticket Bassano-Venezia ments, and piazzas all illustrate the artistic and cultural tour. The marvelous city of Palladio with its architectural • Roundtrip boat ride Stazione Venezia San vivacity that have marked and continue to mark the his- treasures, the legacy of a noble past that not everyone is Lucia-Piazza San Marco tory of this city. Arrival in Venice, guided tour, and free aware of. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. • Guided tour of Venice time. Return to Bassano by train and walk to the hotel. Day 8 Breakfast and departure. Dinner and overnight stay. • Lunch at an agritourism in Valpolicella with Day 4 After breakfast, departure by bus to Valpoli- paired wines for each course cella, an area rich in culture and culinary tradition, for Po-Delta Lagune • Guided tour of Verona lunch at an agritourism (each course served with paired • Guided tour of Padua wines). Afterwards we move on to Verona, where Ro- man ruins, medieval remains, and Venetian and Austri- Tip • Half day boat trip on the Brenta River an infl uences alternate with one another in the ancient • Entry to Villa Pisano di Stra buildings, piazzas, and bridges and in the marvelous • Visit to a winery with a tasting of Prosecco churches, all to be explored. Guided tour. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. • Entry and guided tour of Villa la Rotonda Day 5 After breakfast, departure for Padua for a • Guided tour of Vicenza guided tour. Many illustrious individuals have lived on the streets of this city, attracted by the artistic master- Package price per person 8 days pieces which the city houses and by the lovely surround- ing area. Afterwards a boat trip on the Brenta River to from € 658 reach the Villa Palladiana for a guided tour. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. Day 1 Arrival at the hotel, check-in, dinner, and over- Day 6 After breakfast, departure for Treviso for a night stay. guided tour. Piazza dei Signori, with its 13th century Day 2 After breakfast, departure for a guided tour building and elegant Loggia Dei Cavalieri, is the heart of Villa Barbaro di Maser, one of Andrea Palladio's mas- of the city and a meeting spot of the city's residents. Its terpieces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, still at the two rivers, winding their way through the streets, lend center of its thriving farm. From its historic wine cellars a unique charm to the historic center, encircled by the come a number of highly esteemed wines. We continue ancient walls. The porticoed homes with their frescoed on to Asolo, one of the most evocative historic centers facades frame the scene. At the end of the tour we travel in all of Italy. Encircled by the ancient walls that branch down the Strada del Prosecco all the way to a winery

Contact: Maria & Michela • +39 0183 548 510 • [email protected] | 11 Emilia Romagna All Aboard, fl avors of Emilia Romagna Culinary tourism is a way of traveling that is attracting an ever growing number of food and wine afi cionados seek- ing authentic fl avors and traditions. Emilia Romagna has some of the best which the world has to off er. Palo Alto's Institute for the Future, a research center in California, has already conducted a study on Emilia Romagna's artisan and industrial businesses so as to be able to introduce the world to the high quality of the region's culinary products. You'll just have to try it to believe it. Day 1 Arrival in Bologna. Settling in at the hotel. Din- Programme details ner and overnight stay. Culatello di Zibello Day 2 In the center of Bologna a visit to the labo- • Tour escort for the entire trip ratory where IGP Mortadella is produced, the covered Day 6 • 3 overnight stays in HB at a 3 hotel in market, and a historic chocolate shop. A pasta making Bologna demonstration and a lunch of freshly prepared Bolog- • 4 overnight stays in HB at a 3 hotel in the nese tortellini at a restaurant. In the afternoon a visit to  the Enoteca Regional in Dozza's historic center. Return to Reggio Emilia area the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. • Visit to a Mortadella laboratory with tasting Day 3 Along the road to , a stop near Faenza • Visit to a chocolate laboratory with tasting to visit the olive grove of Brisighella DOP olive oil and a • Artisan pasta making demonstration visit to a winery which produces Romagna wines, with lunch and a tasting of typical products like piadina with • Lunch at a restaurant with beverage included The king of salamis, prepared from the best part • Visit and tasting at an enoteca in Dozza Squacquerone cheese. In the afternoon a visit to Raven- na's historic center with its mosaics. Return to the hotel, of the pig's thigh, ages in the fog of the Po. De- • Visit and tasting of Brisighella oil dinner, and overnight stay. clared a DOP product, its production is limited to • Visit and tasting of typical products at a 60,000 pieces per year as compared to the over 8 Day 4 Check-out and transportation to Parma. A stop million of Prosciutto di Parma. Delicious but hard winery Colli Piacentini in Maranello to tour the Ferrari Museum and afterwards to fi nd. • Tour of the Ferrari Museum in Maranello a visit to a vinegar distillery which produces the Tradi- • Visit and tasting at a vinegar distillery tional IGP Balsamic Vinegar of , with a lunchtime • Lunch of tigelle, cured meats and Lambrusco tasting of tigelle and typical cured meats. In the after- noon a visit to a distillery that produces artisan liqueurs. in the Modena area Arrival at the hotel, check-in, dinner, and overnight stay. • Visit and tasting at a distillery Day 5 A visit to a cheese factory which produces • Visit and tasting of Reggiano Parmesan DOP Reggiano Parmesan, with a tasting of the famous • Visit and tasting at a winery in Parma cheese. Shortly after a stop at Castello di Torrechiara • Lunch of typical products with beverage and its historic center, imbued with love and battles. included in the Parma area Then a visit to a winery in the Colli di Parma with a lunch- • Visit to a winery in the Parma area with a time tasting of typical products and local salamis. In the afternoon a visit to a prosciutto producer and a black pig tasting off Prosciutto di Parma breeder, the pig used in the production of the Prosciutto • Visit to the Culatello di Zibello curing cellars di Parma DOP. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. • Lunch at a restaurant with beverage included Day 6 The morning is dedicated to visiting Parma's • Multimedia tour on Giuseppe Verdi historic center and the most interesting of its monu- • Visit to a laboratory and tasting of Piacenza ments, like the pink marble Baptistery, the wooden coppa and pancetta Teatro Farnese, and the Romanesque cathedral frescoed by Correggio. Transportation to Bassa Parmense for a • Tasting lunch at a winery Colli di Parma visit to a Culatello di Zibello DOP curing cellar and lunch Package price per person 8 days at a restaurant. In the afternoon a visit to a facility which produces Culatello di Zibello to learn the secrets of cur- ing. Then a multimedia exhibit within the adjacent for- from € 652 mer home of Giuseppe Verdi. Dinner and overnight stay with own Bus at the hotel. • Bus hire during the stay as in the programme Day 7 Transportation to Piacenza. Visit to a facility which produces Coppa Piacentina DOP and Pancetta Pia- Package price per person 8 days centina DOP. Visit to a winery in the Colli Piacentini with a lunchtime tasting. Return to the hotel, dinner, and from € 851 overnight stay. with plane Day 8 Departure. 12 | Contact: Monica & Roswitha • +39 0183 548 313 • [email protected] Toscana

From street food to gourmet cuisine Everything, truly everything that you want to taste of Tuscan cuisine, from tradition to innovation.

Day 1 Arrival at the hotel, welcome cocktail and pre- Departure from the hotel for Livorno, with a tasting of Programme details sentation of the itinerary. 5&5, a typical street food from Livorno consisting of a Day 2 Buccellato, Fish & Chips (Lucca and Viareggio) sandwich stuff ed with a hazelnut "pancake". Continuing Departure in the morning for Lucca, meet the local guide. on to Pisa for a guided tour of the city, a true open air • 7 nights in an excellent 3/4 B&B hotel in museum but also a vibrant modern city. Free time in Pisa Montecatini In a typical town coff ee bar, a tasting of Lucca's famous sweet, the Bucellato. Free time in Lucca and departure following a tasting of beers at an artisan pub. Return to • 5 dinners at the hotel for Viareggio with its legendary seafront promenade. A the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. • Welcome reception with cocktails at the hotel, stop at "La Barchina", docked in a canal, and a tasting of Day 8 Check out and departure. • Tour escort for the entire trip Fish&Chips (all extremely fresh) with beverage. Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. • Half day guided tour of Lucca The Chocolate Valley Day 3 Ice, saffron and wine (Volterra and ) • Stop for Buccellato (traditional sweet) and Departure for San Gimignano with a stop for gelato by cappuccino Sergio Dondoli, the king of gelato! Then on to a farm Day 5 • Fish&Chips at the "Barchetta" in Viareggio for a tasting of 4 types of wine with saff ron-based hors • Stop for gelato at the Gelateria di Piazza in d'oeuvres. After which we continue on to Volterra for a visit to an alabaster laboratory (alabaster is a stone ex- San Gimignano tracted in the surrounding area and masterfully sculpted • Tasting of 4 wines with saff ron-based hors in artisan workshops). A mega-barbecue at an agritour- d'oevres at the Fattoria Poggio Alloro ism near Volterra, beverage included. Return to the ho- • Visit to the alabaster laboratory in Volterra tel, dinner, and overnight stay. Day 4 Ribollita and pappa al pomodoro (Florence) • Half day guided tour of Florence Departure for Florence and a guided tour of the city. • Servings of Ribollita and Pappa al Pomodoro Lunch at a small restaurant with servings of two tradi- • Visit to an artisan chocolate factory with tast- tional Florentine dishes: the Ribollita and Pappa al Po- ings of chocolate and a glass of dessert wine modoro. Both prepared with a base of bread, typical of Medieval Florence - tomatoes obviously 15th century. • Aperitif in Montecatini Alto with hors The rest of the day free. Return to the hotel, dinner, and d'oeuvres overnight stay. • Visit to an oil mill with dinner and beverage Day 5 Chocolate Aperitif (Agliana and Montecatini) included After breakfast, departure for a visit to a world famous • Tasting of salamis at the Macelleria Falorni artisan chocolate factory. A tasting of diff erent choco- lates accompanied by a glass of dessert wine. Return to with a glass of Chianti Montecatini Terme. A cable car ride up to Montecatini • Half day guided tour of , tasting of Alto for a spectacular view of the valley. In the evening Panforte and Ricciarelli with beverage at the a visit to an oil mill for dinner with beverage included. Pasticceria Nannini in Siena Return to the hotel and overnight stay. • 5&5 with beverage in Livorno Day 6 Cinta senese and Panforte (Chianti and Siena) • Half day guided tour of Pisa Departure for Greve in Chianti, stopping for a visit and Over the years many high quality chocolate fac- a tasting of 3 traditional salamis with a glass of Chianti tories have popped up between Pisa and Prato. A • Tasting of artisan beer at the legendary Macelleria Falorni. Then departure for "sweet" stop at the various spots which off er tast- Siena with a guided visit of the city and a stop at the fa- ings to their visitors is a must, among which: De Package price per person 8 days mous Nannini pastry shop for a tasting of Panforte and Bondt in Pisa, Slitti in Monsummano Terme, and Ricciarelli, two of the city's traditional sweets. Return to Catinari in Agliana. from € 426 the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. Day 7 5&5 and beer (Livorno and Pisa)

Contact: Monica & Roswitha • +39 0183 548 313 • [email protected] | 13 Toscana

Florence, my love!

In order to let yourself enter the spirit of a city of art like Florence and en- joy it to the full, you have to plan your visit at a time when there are not too Commesso Fiorentino many tourists, away from the chaos of the high season. A stroll though the half-empty streets, under the pleasant warmth of the sun, lingering in front Day 2 of an interesting building and stopping in the middle of Piazza della Signoria, without being pushed by the crowds, is a really special experience: it gives you the feeling "Florence just for me". A visit to the workshops of the "Commesso Fiorentino" (decorative marble inlay) with explanations in English. Day 1 Arrival at the 4  hotel in a central location. Inlay is the ancient art of using pieces of coloured marble for decorative purposes. These master- Day 2 Today you will attend a classic tour to gain an Programme details pieces have been produced since the time of the initial impression of the town, one of the richest in Eu- Medicis, some of them having been preserved in • 4 nights B&B in a 4 hotel in the centre of rope in terms of art and culture. In the afternoon there museums. This particular art was born in Flor- Florence will be a visit to the "Farmacia di Santa Maria Novella", ence and the tradition has been proudly handed • Half day guided tour of Florence the oldest in Europe, which has been open without a down from generation to generation. • Visit to an old pharmacy with explanations in break since the 13th century and has also gained fame German as a perfumery. Afterwards there will be a visit to the Aperitif on the "Commesso Fiorentino" workshop to see the craft of Brunelleschi Terrace • Visit to the workshop of the "Commesso decorative marble inlay. The evening will be rounded off Fiorentino“ with explanations in German with a typical Italian aperitif on the Brunelleschi terrace Day 2 • Aperitif on the Brunelleschi terrace with a view of the entire city. • Entry to the Uffi zi Gallery, pre-booked and Day 3 The morning will be dedicated to a visit of the with a guided tour world famous Uffi zi Gallery which houses more than • Tour escort during the gourmet tour: tastings 1000 works of art from the period between the 13th and of the famous Tuscan soup, tomato soup, 18th centuries. Departure in the afternoon for a short chocolate dessert with artisan ice cream "Tour del Gusto", which abandons the typical tourist routes to delight your senses with tastings of all sorts Package price per person 5 days of typical delicious products: a visit to a chocolate fac- tory, with tastings of various types of chocolate, then in from € 232 a small restaurant, sampling the twin delights of Tuscan soup and tomato soup followed by artisan ice cream in an historic ice cream parlour! Buon Appetito! You will enjoy an excellent aperitif on the most Day 4 Entire free day at your leisure. beautiful setting in Florence with a superb view of the city. A romantic evening, with a glass of Day 5 Breakfast and departure for the return journey. fi ne wine served with delicious specialities.

14 | Contact: Monica & Roswitha • +39 0183 548 313 • [email protected] Toscana Delightful walking in southern Tuscany Lovers of unusual trips won't be able to stop themselves falling for this corner of Tuscany, its delightful corners un- touched by mass tourism, unspoilt, wild landscapes which lend themselves perfectly to walks and exploration by foot. Among the green hills, vineyards and olive groves with stops in the most beautiful medieval villages on a wonderful journey learning about the most captivating nature. Day 3 Sovana and Pitigliano From Sovana you take the ancient path, which dates back pecorino Programme details to the Etruscan period, which takes you to Pitigliano. On to the spa town of Saturnia to bathe in the energizing Day 4 • 5 Nights HB in good 3 hotels in Chianciano waters at a temperature of 36 degrees. Return to the ho- Terme tel, dinner and overnight stay. • 4 guided walks Duration of the trekking: 1.5-2 hours. • 4 packed lunches Day 4 Bagno Vignoni and Pienza • Tasting and light refreshments in Departure after breakfast for Bagno Vignoni. There is a hot spring in the piazza in the centre of the town which Montepulciano was enjoyed in Roman times. From Bagno Vignoni a walk • Cheese tasting of Pienza pecorino to Pienza along a path with splendid views and enchant- ing perspectives. To crown the day, a tasting of diff erent Package price per person 6 days types of cheese, including Pienza pecorino. Return to the Renowned as the traditional Pienza pecorino, it is hotel, dinner and overnight stay. the most prized in Tuscany. After production it is from € 238 Length of the trekking: approximately 3 hours. aged in oak barrels. Day 5 Monte Amiata Day 1 Arrival at the hotel and check in, dinner and Monte Amiata, the now dormant lava dome, located overnight stay. between Florence and Rome, is 1739 metres high mak- The "Piazza" di Day 2 Montalcino, Sant‘Animo Abtei, ing it the highest landmark in the region. Today's route Bagno Vignoni Montepulciano goes from Abbadia San Salvatore to Pian del Castagnaio, Departure after breakfast for Montalcino. Excur- which will take around 2 and a half hours. Then a sec- sion on foot along a panoramic path to the Abbazia di tion by coach and lastly on foot once again for a short Sant'Animo, an architectural gem in the Roman style. section to almost reach the summit of the mountain at At the end of the walk a tasting of the most prestigious 1400 metres. Italian wine: Brunello di Montalcino. Return to the hotel, Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay. dinner and overnight stay. Length of the trekking: ap- Length of the trekking: approximately 3 hours. proximately 3 hours. Day 6 Departure after breakfast for the return jour- ney. Day 4

There is a "spring piazza" in the centre of the vil- lage, a vast rectangular tank dating back to the sixteenth century, which contains a hot spring from the underground aquifer of volcanic origin. Famous guests have visited Bagno Vignoni like Pope Pius II, Catherine of Siena and Lorenzo de Medici.

Contact: Monica & Roswitha • +39 0183 548 313 • [email protected] | 15 Umbria

Between wine and spirituality

Umbria region is historically known for its ties to religion and spirituality. Since the dawn of Christianity important spiritual centers and places of worship have been active in Umbria. In this region the divine permeates the land, the typical food served in the convents has become the region's culinary tradition. Long thought of as Tuscany's little sister, Umbria actually has a strong individual identity that we'd like to introduce you to. Day 1 Arrival at the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. Return to the mainland and then dinner in an evocative Programme details Day 2 Orvieto and Terni Abbey with live music. Return to the hotel and overnight After breakfast departure for Orvieto, the many-faced stay. • 5 nights B&B in a good 3 hotel near Perugia city built on tuff ; medieval, Etruscan, spiritual. After Day 6 Breakfast and departure. visiting the city a brief stop at Orvieto's historic under- • Welcome aperitif ground wine cellars. Lunch with wine tasting. Then • 4 dinners at the hotel departure for Terni, the city of St. Valentine, the patron The Chiesa della • Dinner at an abbey saint of lovers. A tour of the city and a visit to the cathe- Madonna delle • Live music during dinner at the Taverna del dral which houses the relics of the saint. Return to the Lacrime in Trevi Duca hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. Day 3 and Eremo delle Carceri Day 4 • Full day guided tour of Orvieto and Terni Today is dedicated to visiting Assisi and Eremo delle Carc- • Visit to historic wineries and lunch with wine eri on Mt. Subasio. Assisi, the "Holy City" with its Basilica tastings in Orvieto di San Francesco , is a global center of Christianity as well • Entry to Orvieto's duomo and Terni's cathedral as a museum housing important works by Cimabue, • Full day guided tour of Assisi Giotto, Simone Martini, and Pietro Lorenzetti. Not far beyond the walls of Assisi, on Mt. Subasio, we also visit • Entry to the Basilica di San Francesco d'Assisi Eremo delle Carceri, where St. Francis went to pray. Re- • Transportation to Eremo delle Carceri turn to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay. The miracle of the tears began in 1485 in an image • Full day Tour escort in Trevi, Montefalco, and Day 4 Trevi, Montefalco and Spello painted on the wall of a rural home and is impor- tant to the frescoes of Perugino and Spagna, all After breakfast, departure for Terni, one of the most Spello posessing exceptional historic and artistic value. • Entry to the Santuario della Madonna, St. beautiful medieval villages in all of Italy. Walking up to Francis Church with picture gallery, and the town we come upon the Chiesa della Madonna delle Lacrime. A tour of Trevi, departure for Montefalco with Chiesa Santa Maria Maggiore its Chiesa di San Franceso which today houses the picture • Tasting of Sagrantino di Montefalco and two gallery that includes Benozzo Guzzoli's frescoes. This city Sagrantino di Montefalco other typical wines with hors d'oerves is also famous for the production of its red wine: the Sagrantino di Montefalco. A tasting of Sagrantino and • Full day guided tour of Perugia and Lake Day 4 Trasimeno two other types of wine served with hors d'oerves at a winery. The day continues with a visit to Spello, with its • Roundtrip transportation on Perugia's ancient stone houses and numerous Roman ruins. Return Minimetro to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. • Boat Passignano - Isola Maggiore Day 5 Perugia and Lake Trasimeno • Entry to the Chiesa di San Salvatore Today we visit the capital of the region, Perugia. After the guided tour, free time, and departure for Lake Tra- Package price per person 6 days simeno with a boat ride to Isola Maggiore, an unusual Sagrantino di Montefalco is the red wine which example of an island, at one time prosperous and lively, has made Umbria famous in the oenological now inhabited by only 18 people, with pronounced her- from € 309 world. Sagrantino is produced only here, in the mitic tendencies. green hills of Montefalco and Bevagna. Excellent served with aged cheeses or wild game.

16 | Contact: Monica & Roswitha • +39 0183 548 313 • [email protected] Lazio

Pilgrimage for the extraordinary Jubilee Some of the most beautiful Churches of all time and in all the world, a mixture of emotions with a spirituality and reli- gious feel that is unequalled anywhere else in the western world. The destination is Rome, which every year, together with the Vatican and her 400 plus churches, is the destination of millions of pilgrims and tourists who come together from the four corners of the globe to breathe the atmosphere of joy and intense spirituality conveyed during the Pope's Wednesday address. Faces that are foreign but friendly, songs sung in the most unfathomable languages, but that are, in any case, easy to understand, joy, happiness and one person with the face of a good man and a reassur- ing smile: Pope Francis. A religious journey that will leave you full of emotions and memories destined to stay in your memory forever, never to be cancelled... Vatican Museum and All this plus the possibility of taking part in the extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy! Sistine Chapel Skip the Line Day 1 Arrival in the hotel, check-in and settling in Programme details to the rooms. Possibility of joining the other guests in prayer before dinner. In the evening, welcome aperitif Day 4 • 4 nights in a 3 Hotel or religious house, with prosecco and nibbles and dinner in the hotel res- taurant. • 4 large buff et breakfasts Day 2 After a large buff et breakfast we begin visiting • 4 three course dinners, drinks not included the 3 papal basilicas and the relative sacred doors: Santa • German-speaking assistant for the Papal Maria Maggiore, San Giovanni in Laterano with its Holy Address on Wednesday Steps and San Paolo fuori le mura. Free lunch break. In the afternoon, visit to the catacombs of S. Domitilla. In • Guided tour Fullday "the 3 most important the evening, return to the hotel and dinner in the hotel churches and the catacombs" restaurant. • Guided tour Halfday "the nicest barock Day 3 After a large buff et breakfast, it is fi nally time Skip-The-Line Ticket for the Vatican museums churches of Rom" for you to see Pope Francis close at hand. After the Pope's and Sistine Chapel to ensure that you do not was- address, free lunch break. In the afternoon, meeting with te even a minute of your precious time standing • Guided tour Halfday "the Vatican and the your guide who will take you on a long walk to discover in useless queues . Vatican Museums" the most beautiful churches of Baroque Rome: San Luigi • Admission ticket for the catacombs of dei Francesi, the Pantheon, Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, il Rome Operette S. Domitilla Gesù, Santa Maria in Ara Coeli. In the evening, return to hotel and dinner in the hotel restaurant. • Skip-the-Line admission ticket for the Vatican Day 4 Day 4 After a tasty buff et breakfast you will spend the Museums and the Sistine Chapel entire day discovering the Vatican and visiting the sacred • Admission ticket for the Papal Address door par excellence in the basilica of St Peter. You will tour the majestic Piazza S. Pietro with its colonnade by Package price per person 5 days Bernini, witnessing the magnifi cence of the basilica of St Peter with Bernini's baldachin, Michelangelo's Pietà and from € 275 fi nally the Vatican museums. The tour will end with a visit to the most famous chapel in the world, where new Optional Popes have been elected for centuries: the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo's Last Judgment. Lunch and free after- Goodbye dinner with typical Roman menu and noon. In the evening return to the hotel and dinner. musical entertainment. A trio of singers will ac- Day 5 After the buff et breakfast you will still have company visitors during the evening with typical time to say a quick prayer before leaving Rome. Arrive- Roman and Italian songs, encouraging the group derci Roma... see you next time! to take part in a few fun jokes.

Contact: Graziano • +39 0183 548 611 • [email protected] | 17 Lazio Classic Rome

Rome is a city of records: it is the city with the largest population in Italy, it is one of the vastest and greenest capital cities in Europe, and it is the city with the highest concentration of historical and architectural landmarks in the world. Rome is Rome, and there is no adjective, comparison, or comment that can fully express its eternal beauty. The great classic among the tours we off er, with thousands of reservations made each year and always capable of capturing the attention of general public, which has for centuries now been mesmerized and enthralled by the ap- peal of the most beautiful city in the world. Day 1 Arrival at the international airport, reception and a brief panoramic tour of the city. Check-in at the Rome Segway Programme details hotel and in the afternoon a welcome aperitif with • 3 overnight stays in a centrally or semi- Prosecco and homemade delicacies, followed by a ro- Tip mantic stroll exploring the "dolce vita" of Rome. From centrally located 4 hotel or in a semi- the Spanish Steps to Via Condotti, all the way to the centrally located 3 hotel Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. Din- • 3 buff et breakfasts ner Dinner at your leisure. • Welcome aperitif Day 2 After a plentiful buff et breakfast, departure for • 1 Airport-Hotel transfer with panoramic tour the Coliseum. The wonders of will leave of Rome you breathless. The largest and most well-preserved Ro- • 1 Hotel-Airport transfer man amphitheater in the world, the Imperial Forum, the Arch of Constantine, the Circus Maximus. Your archeo- • Assistance English upon arrival and 1 pan- logical walking tour will take you all the way to Campi- oramic tour of the eternal city doglio and Piazza Venezia. Then lunch of your choice and Give your group an unforgettable experience with • Half day guided tour on foot and via public the afternoon free for shopping. Dinner of your choice. the segway! The "Romantisches rom" tour can be transportation ("Baroque Rome") Day 3 After a plentiful buff et breakfast we leave an excellent itinerary in which bring together fun • Half day guided tour on foot and via public to explore the Vatican. The majestic St. Peter's Square and culture! transportation ("Ancient Rome") as well as the basilica, Michelangelo's Pietà, Bernini's Pizza bakers ourse • Half day guided tour on foot and via public colonnade, and many other masterpieces will be right transportation ("Christian Rome") before your eyes like a 3D art book which, step by step, comes to life. Only in Rome can you walk freely from one Tip • Public transportation pass valid for three days century to the next, amidst artistic masterpieces that • Headset for the tour of St. Peter's have remained intact up to the present day. A break for lunch Dinner at your leisure. The afternoon free for Package price per person 4 days shopping or other activities Dinner at your leisure. Din- ner Dinner at your leisure. 3 semi-centrall from € 150 Day 4 After the buff et breakfast, a bit of free time for shopping, followed by a private bus to the international What's more Italian than pizza margherita? Prove airport. Arrivederci Roma! that you are expert pizza makers and earn your 4 semi-central from € 180 award with this fun pizza course! Who will be- come the next best pizza maker in Rome?! 4 central from € 215

18 | Contact: Graziano • +39 0183 548 611 • [email protected] Lazio Rome and its gardens Rome is the greenest capital city in Europe. With almost 1000 square kilometers of city parks, private gardens, and woods, the eternal city and its surrounding areas are an enormous green lung. Your tour will extend from the mar- velous Garden of Ninfa (according to the New York Times one of the ten most beautiful gardens in the world), to the incredibly colorful municipal rose garden on the Aventine Hill, and will also include a visit to the famous Vatican gar- dens. Plants, trees, fl owers, shrubs, , fountains, and streams: the succession of colors and scents will intoxicate your days and lend color to your magnifi cent photographs. Arrival at the hotel, check-in, and settling into your rooms. In the late afternoon a welcome aperitif with Giardini Ninfa Programme details Prosecco and homemade delicacies. Dinner Dinner at your leisure. Day 2 • 4 overnight stays in a centrally located 4 Day 2 After a plentiful buff et breakfast we head hotel south to visit one of the ten most beautiful gardens in • 4 buff et breakfasts the world. The Gardens of Ninfa are a true natural monu- ment; a place with thousands of colors and thousands of • Welcome aperitif scents. Lunch Dinner at your leisure. In the afternoon we • 1 Airport-Hotel transfer with panoramic tour continue on to Tivoli to visit the remarkable Villa Grego- of Rome riana, characterized by its stunning natural beauty, full The Garden of Ninfa, a terrestrial paradise right • Full day bus rental on the 2nd day of natural and artifi cial waterfalls, ravines, and captivat- at Rome's doorstep that will leave you breathless ing trails immersed in lush vegetation. Return to the ho- and captivate your imagination. In each season • Roundtrip transportation from the hotel to tel in the evening. Dinner Dinner at your leisure. you have the opportunity to visit one of the most the Vatican on the 3rd day Day 3 After a delicious buff et breakfast, today we beautiful parks in Italy with a special pass. • Half day bus rental on the 4th day visit the gardens of the smallest country in the world. • 1 Hotel-Airport transfer Together with an expert Vatican guide you will be given access to the famous Vatican Gardens. Known for the Giardini Vaticani • Assistance in German upon arrival and half- wide variety of plants present within and for the exotic day guided tour "Baroque Rom" species from other continents and countries, the Vatican • Full day guided tour "Ninfa Oase and Villa Gardens are usually closed to the general public and re- Day 3 Gregoriana" quire special permission to visit them. Lunch Dinner at your leisure. In the afternoon we continue with a tour of • Full day guided tour "The Vatican gardens and the Vatican Museums, ending with the Sistine Chapel. Vatican museum" Lastly a visit to St. Peter's Cathedral and Square. Return • Half day guided tour "The hill Aventine and its to the hotel. Dinner Dinner at your leisure. gardens" Day 4 After an abundant buff et breakfast, today's tour The Vatican gardens are a perfectly preserved ex- takes you to the Aventine Hill to visit the little known, ample of the fusion between a traditional Italian- • Entry ticket to the Garden of Ninfa but very evocative municipal rose garden which houses • Entry ticket to the Villa Gregoriana style garden and a remarkable variety of exotic approximately 1,100 diff erent species of roses. Continu- plants and fl owers. All in the shade of the most • Skip-the-line entry ticket to the Vatican ing on, we arrive at the "Giardino degli aranci" (Orange famous cupola in the world. Gardens and the Vatican Museums Garden) its spectacular panoramic terrace overlooking Rome. Just a little further on and we arrive at the famous Package price per person 5 days "Buco della serratura" (Keyhole) from which you can see Roseto Comunale the dome of St. Peter's through the keyhole of the garden door. Lunch Dinner at your leisure. The afternoon free for Day 4 from € 445 shopping or other activities Dinner at your leisure. Dinner Dinner at your leisure. Day 1 Arrival at Leonardo da Vinci international airport. Meet your guide and tour "Barockes Rom". Day 5 After the breakfast buff et, hotel check-out Together with your guide you will take a lovely and private bus to the Leonardo da Vinci international stroll around the Spanish Steps, Via Condotti, the airport. Arriverderci Roma… Nächstes Mal kommen wir Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. wieder!

Rome's municipal rose garden houses over 1,100 species of roses which put on a spectacular show in the spring, to be admired and photographed. Not everyone knows that each year in the middle of May an international competition is organized in which the most beautiful species of roses are awarded.

Contact: Graziano • +39 0183 548 611 • [email protected] | 19 Sardegna

Sardinia and its great cultural treasures Contus Antigus: discovering the often mysterious land of Sardinia through its history, traditions and folklore. This journey touches the most remote soul of Sardinia, listening to its stories and traditions and observing its habits and customs. The art of artisan handiwork that has been passed down through the generations will be experienced, as well as dances and performances. This trip has been created especially for travellers who have a bit of anthropolo- gy in them and who also want to get to know the other Sardinia, the one that is far from the emerald-blue coasts and seaside establishments. This Sardinia looks out from its mountain tops, proud of its heritage and happy to share it. of the Lu Coddu Vecchiu giants, one of the most captivat- ing monuments on the island. Return to the hotel, dinner Programme details and overnight. Pariglia (equestrian race) Day 3 Breakfast in the hotel followed by departure • Bus rental for the whole tour as per programm for a visit of Saccargia and the Holy Trinity Basilica, the Day 4 • Tour escort for the whole tour island’s symbolic monument. The church has very an- cient origins, dating back to 1116, and houses a complete • 5 nights HB in 4 Hotel Porto Ottiolu area cycle of frescoes, which are the only examples of Roman • Focaccia of Alghero tasting (white pizza) frescoes still conserved in Sardinia. The trip continues to Alghero, following in the footsteps of the Catalans who • Lunch with the shepherds of Orgosolo (bev- left a notable imprint on the city. Tasting of typical Algh- arage included) ero focaccia, which is light and crunchy and is considered • The sardinian Pariglia exclusive for the group the forefather of pizza. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight. • Typical sardinian dinner instead of halfboard Day 4 After breakfast, departure for Nuoro, the new at the hotel provincial capital and the centre of Sardinia’s cultural life. The trip continues to the town of Orgosolo, which is • Dancing evening with sardinian dancers in Trust, friendship, speed and balance are required hotel known for its murals. After the visit, a traditional Sardin- ian lunch at an inn nestled among nature that includes of the horsemen when they perform risky acro- • Tasting of Vermentino white wine in the Gal- cured meats, cheese and suckling pig and is accompa- batic manoeuvres and ride in the saddles as their lura region nied by excellent local wine. In this rustic but charming horses rush headlong in the race. locale, the Canto a Tenores will be sung. In the afternoon • Small cork present with your logo there is a Pariglia performance, which is an equestrian „Canto a Tenores“ competition where courageous horsemen show off their Package price per person 6 days jumps and acrobats in a dance-race that is truly exciting. Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight. from € 476 Day 5 After breakfast, the day will be dedicated to discovering Gallura, the northernmost area of the region. Day 1 Arrival at the Olbia airport, meet with the Gallura is a mountainous zone that is rich in granite rock guide. Transport to a 4  hotel in the Ottiolu Port area. and cork oak forests. A visit to a cork factory in Calangia- Dinner and overnight. nus and Vermentino tasting with a snack of local prod- Day 4 Day 2 Breakfast then departure for the Em- ucts. Return to the hotel and fi nal dinner of Sardinian erald Coast, which is famous for its white sand specialties with pleasant music and dances in traditional beaches. Free time to walk to Porto Cervo. costumes. The trip continues onto Arzachena, an archaeological site Day 6 Breakfast in the hotel. Transfer to the Olbia air- This UNESCO heritage song goes back to the very with relics that date back to the Bronze Age and the tomb port with assistance. ancient prehistoric times of the nuraghi and is es- pecially widespread in the Sardinian hinterland. 20 | Contact:Kontakt: Veronica & Rita • +39 0183 548 316 • [email protected] Campania

Rome and the gulf of The Eternal City and the Gulf of Naples complement one another in perfection in a single journey: Rome with its in- comparable monuments, from the Colosseum to the Roman Forum to the Vatican Museums and the Gulf of Naples with its evocative landscape, from to the Sorrento Peninsula. For many centuries the Gulf of Naples was a place that wealthy ancient Romans went to for relaxation and holidays, and for this reason a journey through Ro- man culture always takes in Naples and the Gulf as well. Day 3 After breakfast the morning will be dedicated Programme details to a visit to the Alban Hills and Castel Gandolfo, the summer residence of the Pope. From there on to Lake Lake Albano • 2 nights HB in a good 3 in the area of Albano, one of the two volcanic crater lakes in the area, from where a magnifi cent view of the local are can be Day 3 Castelli Romani enjoyed. Continuing through enchanting countryside • Return railway ticket from Frascati- Roma studded with picturesque medieval place to then reach • Half day guided tour of "Ancient Rome" a beautiful property where there will be a wine tasting, • Half day guided tour to the Roman Castles lunch and a visit to the villa, the cellar and the vineyards. Early afternoon departure for the Sorrento Peninsula. Ar- • Wine tasting with lunch rival at the hotel, check in and dinner. The deepest volcanic crater lake in Italy famous • 3 nights HB in a good 3 on the Sorrento Day 4 Morning dedicated to discovering Naples about for its beauty. Peninsula which Goethe wrote "See Naples and die" to get to know The Roman Castles, like Castel Gandolfo, which, at • Full day guided tour of Naples and Pompeii its incredible beauty. With its numerous tokens of almost the summit of the lake, is refl ected in the water, three thousand years of history, its character which is • Full day guided tour of Sorrento and the and a little further from Rocca di Papa (which is in constant evolving, the noise and music, the colours and the north), Albano, Ariccia and Genzano di Roma, Sorrento Hills smells, Naples enchants its visitors. And when in Naples are enjoyable destinations, near the capital. • Wine tasting of typical products one of the meals must be its exceptional pizza. Transfer in the afternoon to Pompeii, a rich city which was buried • Visit to a pasta factory in the Gragnano area by the great eruption of Vesuvius, where many signs of The Sorrento Hills Package price per person 6 days life in the ancient world can be seen. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. Day 5 Day 5 The perfume of citrus groves is the prelude to from € 284 today, dedicated to a visit of the Sorrento Peninsula, fi lled with enchanting views. In Sorrento a walk through Day 1 Arrival at the hotel in the Colli Albani area, the distinctive old town centre to admire the mag- check in, dinner in the hotel and overnight stay. nifi cent villas of the Belle Époque. In a country villa, set Day 2 Full-day trip to Rome by train. Visit of Ancient deep in romantic countryside and surrounded by lemon The Sorrento Peninsula has a unique landscape, Rome in the morning. Meeting with the guide and start groves, you will learn about the culinary art of the local of the trip; walking along via Cavour to the Colosseum. alternating between high and low hills with deep specialities by tasting delicious tarts and the famous Li- valleys and majestic mountains. The famous ar- In the past, the extraordinary journey led to the Roman moncello. To complete the day, a visit to a pasta factory Forum, the heart of the city. Continue on towards Piazza tifi cial terraces, which are like steps in the land- at Gragnano, where the best pasta in Italy is produced, is scape which go right down to the sea, are used to Venezia and the Capitoline Hill and the Capitoline Mu- a must. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. seums. grow oranges, lemons, olives and vines and add Day 6 Breakfast and departure for the return journey. colour and brilliance to the scenery. Afternoon free for shopping or individual visits. Return to the hotel and overnight stay. Contact: Jolanda & Fabiola • +39 0183 548 205 • [email protected] | 21 Campania

Trekking between the green and the sea in A strong pair of legs and lots of curiosity. That is everything you need to visit Cilento in the south of Campania. A won- derful area because it is still unspoilt, where you eat well and the local hospitality is second to none, like agritourism in the Forno Antico, a former building of the Knights of Malta, where you will be welcomed, not like tourists, but like friends. bus. Spaghetti party dinner. Lasting approximately 5 hours. After breakfast you Programme details Day 3 , Pioppi, Acciaroli will take a path that climbs to a height of 500 metres and The day is dedicated to a trip by bus to the archaeologi- you will reach a spring which usually triggers cameras. • Bus hire during the stay as in the programme cal site of Velia, one of the most important in the whole You will then continue to Alzano and then on to Cernile of Magna Graecia, which has been declared a world at an altitude of 700 metres. You then start to descend • Welcome on arrival at Naples Airport and heritage site. On to the nearby villages of Pioppi and towards the sea, stopping near the Cemetery of Caprioli during the transfer to the hotel on the day Acciaroli, two of the jewels of the Cilento coast. A "plea- where you will enjoy a 360° view. You will then continue of arrival sure loving" stop to taste the excellent local cheeses like following a path which leads you back to the farm house. • 6 nights HB in a farm house in Cilento ricotta and caciocavallo. But only after having visited the Traditional dinner and dancing. Overnight stay. entire milk production chain! Return, dinner and over- Day 7 A splendid breakfast before loading the lug- • Full day escorted tour to Roccagloriosa and night stay. gage onto the bus to go to Naples Airport, with time to Gole Bussento Day 4 Trekking towards the west, low level of take your leave Not farewell, but goodbye for now! • 3 full day guided tours diffi culty. Distance: 9 Km. Lasting approximately 3 • 1 packed lunch hours. Cilento National Park • 1 cheese tasting A few metres from the farm house there is a path that leads to the village of San Mauro La Bruca where you • 1 short cookery course can admire the olive tree groves and the Chapel of Our Day 2 • 1 dinner at the farm house Lady of Graces. In the town you can order a delicious ham sandwich with local brawn garnished with tomatoes and Package price per person 7 days onions, a glass of good wine and a caff è corretto with anisette, like the locals. Return to the farm house along from € 325 the provincial road for a light lunch. Cookery course in the afternoon to learn how to make fresh pasta. Dinner Day 1 Arrival at Naples Airport and transfer to the and overnight stay. farm house. Dinner and overnight stay. Day 5 Departure by bus for Roccagloriosa, a town Day 2 Trekking towards the south as far as Pa- perched on a rocky spur about 450 metres above sea linuro. Medium/low level of diffi culty. Distance: 8 level, which dominates the valleys of the Mingardo and The Park, covering more than 180,00 hectares, Km - Lasting approximately 3 hours. After breakfast, Bussento Rivers. Visit to the Antiquarium which houses fi lls the whole of the southern part of Campania, armed with binoculars and cameras you will set off fol- numerous Lucanian archaeological discoveries. On to and is a UNESCO world heritage site because of its lowing the old railway line and then follow the River Morigerati to visit Gole del Bussento, a WWF oasis cov- rich biodiversity. Palinuro, whit its crystal clear Lambro until you reach the splendid waters on the shore ering 607 hectares, one of the most important in Italy sea, one of those places that has always fascinated of Buon Dormire. Packed lunch. The journey will con- with its spectacular views. Return to the hotel, a dinner visitors in every age to the extent that Virgil in- tinue to the port of Palinuro. An unforgettable view of including pizza and other local delicacies. Overnight stay. cluded this impassable promontory in his Aeneid. the sunset taking in the in the south an Day 6 Trekking Periplo del monte Castelluccio. Punta Licosa in the west. Return to the farm house by Medium/low level of diffi culty. Distance: 16 Km -

22 | Contact: Jolanda & Fabiola • +39 0183 548 205 • [email protected] Puglia Puglia slow and cheap

In just a few years, Puglia has gone from being a destination that hardly anyone knew to one of the most popular regions in southern Italy. This quantum leap is due to the grand qualities of the various tourist facilities on off er: ex- cellent hotels, fi ne food and wine, beautiful locations with their intact historical centres, natural beauties scattered throughout the region. And last but not least, the extraordinary welcome off ered by the people of Puglia.

Day 2 After breakfast, departure for , with its trulli lined up on the hillside, which make it the Mini course on making Programme details only landscape of its kind in the world, and a UNESCO pasta orecchiette and World Heritage Site. Buff et lunch in a trullo with lo- bocce tournament • 4 nights B&B in a 4 hotel in Cisternino cal specialities. In the afternoon, visit to the Castellana • Welcome drink caves, an impressive system of underground caverns • 2 dinners in the hotel spanning 3 kilometres. On the way back, stop in the beautiful town of Polignano a Mare to savour an exqui- • Goodbye dinner in the hotel with pizza menu site, unmissable mulberry-fl avoured ice-cream. Dinner Tip and entertainment with live folk music in the hotel and overnight accommodation. • Transfer on day of arrival and departures in Day 3 After breakfast, departure on an excursion to bus from Bari or Brindisi Basilicata with a view of Matera, the city of the "Stones" recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site due to • Assistant from airport become European Capital City of Culture in 2019. This • Full day excursions with guide and local buses is followed by a visit to Martina Franca and its char- (Alberobello, Castellana, Polignano - Matera, acteristic historical centre with its white alleyways, Orecchiette is a shape of rather thick pasta, ob- Martina Franca) noble buildings and majestic Baroque churches. Dinner tained by pressing a fi nger on a round piece of in a typical butcher's shop in Cisternino: the butcher's dough. Their particular form ensures they keep • Half day excursion with guide and local buses shop restaurants of this city are a well-known tradition their shape during cooking and they are perfect (Bari) throughout the south of Italy for the goodness of their when eaten with the most particular of sauces: • 2 lunches in a restaurant (Alberobello) and in meat! Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight ac- the best-known recipe from Puglia is orecchiette a country hotel (Bari area) commodation. with broccoli or broccoli and ricotta cheese. • Special dinner in a butcher's shop (Cisternino) Day 4 After breakfast, departure on a guided tour of the city of Bari. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, it is an Package price per person 5 days open door to the nearby East with the old city protected Mozzarella by the Svevo Castle. Lunch in a typical estate where a cheese-maker will demonstrate how mozzarella is pro- from € 299 duced and allow you to taste it while it is still warm. In the afternoon, return to the hotel for the goodbye din- Day 1 arrival in Puglia, settling in to hotel in Cis- ner with various starters, pizzas and desserts… all ac- ternino. Welcome cocktail. Dinner and overnight accom- companied by the music and good cheer of a folk group. modation. Overnight accommodation. Day 5 After breakfast, departure for the return jour- ney. Day 4

Demonstration of how mozzarella, ricotta and burrata are made: do you know how it is done? Let yourself be amazed by the great skill of the cheese-maker whose love, passion and skill will leave you speechless. And the proof of the pud- ding is in the excellence of the products.

Contact: Jolanda & Fabiola • +39 0183 548 205 • [email protected] | 23 Sicilia

Culinary tour the best on your plate and in your glass A special tour for food and wine afi cionados. has a great deal to off er in terms of food and wine: it ranks 2nd among the southern regions with 16 Michelin stars, but above all is increasingly well known for its high quality prod- ucts and wine. It is absolutely a region to be "tasted"! like none other in Italy. hotel and overnight stay. Programme details Return to the hotel. Overnight stay. Day 7 After breakfast, departure. Day 3 After breakfast, departure for Siracusa, a city set right on the sea, rich in monuments and in which • 2 nights HB in a 4 star hotel in the Ragusa Ragusa and the church area nature, history, and legend all come together like in the Neapolis archaeological park with its Greek theater. of Santa Maria delle • 2 nights B&B in a 4 hotel in the Meanwhile Ortigia is a succession of Baroque buildings Scale area and Arab streets. We continue on to the Catania area, • Dinner at the hotel in the Catania area settle in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. • Full day guide in Ragusa and Day 4 After breakfast a guided tour of Catania with its picturesque fi sh market (every morning from Monday to • Tasting of Modican chocolate Saturday). Catania, situated in a very fertile plain where • Aperitif in the area even in the winter the scent of lemon fl owers permeates • Rich brunch with 5 wines at a winery in the the air, is a city full of highly traffi cked boulevards. Then we head on to Viagrande to visit a which grows Catania area the Nerello Mascalese, with vines that range from 20 to Day 2 • Half day guide in Catania over 100 years old. We couldn't leave out a rich brunch • Seafood dinner at a restaurant in Taormina with tastings of 5 wines and other delicacies. Return to 340 steps connect Ragusa to Ibla. A tiring climb, • Sicilian granita with brioche in Messina the hotel in the afternoon. The seafood dinner will be served at a traditional restaurant in beautiful Taormina, but with a panoramic view you cannot miss! • Half day guide in Cefalù with breathtaking panoramic views. Return to the hotel • Wine tasting in a relais in Castelbuono and overnight stay. • 2 nights B&B in a 4 hotel in the Palermo Day 5 After breakfast, departure for Messina where The Chocolate of Modica area you will taste the best granita in all of Sicily, accompanied by a fresh brioche. The next culinary stop is Castelbuono, • Dinner at the hotel in the Palermo area for a tasting in a very evocative location in the hills of the • Half day guide in and Palermo Madonie Park at a relais built within an ancient abbey. • 4 course dinner with aperitif at a baglio in Also worth a visit is the adjacent wine cellar where the award winning "Litra" Cabernet-Sauvignon is produced. Palermo's inland area We continue on to Cefalù for a guided tour. The visit to Package price per person 7 days the city is dominated by its Norman cathedral, one of the most beautiful examples of Medieval Sicilian architec- ture in the region. Continuing on to Palermo, settling in Day 2 from € 492 at the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay. Day 6 After breakfast, the day begins with a guided Day 1 Arrival and settling in at the hotel in the Ragusa tour of Monreale and its cathedral, which houses pre- area, dinner and overnight stay. cious gold mosaics and a beautiful cloister with 228 dec- The ritual of cold chocolate production with "Bit- Day 2 After breakfast, a trip to Ragusa Ibla, an an- orated columns. Then we continue on to visit Palermo's ter mass" is passed on from generation to genera- cient city, rich in Baroque buildings, that was recon- historic center. Dominated by diff erent and contrasting tion. This ancient recipe makes chocolate brittle structed after the earthquake of 1693. We continue on cultures, the city refl ects this cultural mix with its unique and gives it an incomparable taste. It’s so diffi cult to Modica and explore its historic center with the San and fascinating character. The rest of the day is up to you. to decide between the numerous fl avors: cinna- Giorgio church and its majestic staircase. At a famous Dinner with aperitif and an abundant 4-course menu will mon, orange, white pepper, lemon, cardamom, pastry shop you will have the chance to taste Modican be served in an ancient and characteristic baglio from marjoram, dark, nutmeg, chili pepper and many chocolate which is made using a very unique technique, the 1800s, for a fi tting end to your trip. Return to the others!

24 | Contact: Jolanda & Fabiola • +39 0183 548 205 • [email protected] Sicilia Taormina, fun and dolce vita An easy tour which leaves room for relaxation but which is nonetheless rich in exciting discoveries. Classic Sicily, for over fi fty years the preferred destination of tourists from all over Europe. Day 1 Arrival in Catania, meet your guide, and trans- them forever. On the way back to the hotel a stop at a portation to the 4 hotel in the Giardini Naxos area. distillery to taste Sicilian grappas and liqueurs, including Programme details Dinner and overnight stay. the limoncello produced with the extremely juicy local Day 2 Breakfast and then departure for Catania. This lemons. Afternoon free. Get ready for dinner at the hotel, • 4 nights B&B in a 4 hotel in the Giardini historic center is one of the Baroque gems of eastern Sic- not a farewell but an ARRIVEDERCI to this spectacular Naxos area ily with its splendid Piazza Duomo and Via dei Crociferi island! • 2 dinners at the hotel (3 courses) lined with churches and convents. A visit to the fi sh Day 5 Breakfast and transportation by bus to the market held every morning (except Sundays) is a must. airport. • Farewell dinner at the hotel (4 courses) A light seafood lunch awaits you at the restaurant. In the • Cocktail (Castelmola) afternoon we continue along the Riviera dei Ciclopi, a coastal stretch in northern Catania that off ers numerous • Light 2-course lunch (Catania) Bar Turrisi Castelmola • Exclusive Taormina by-night bus tour stories and legends as well as views of the sea stacks ris- ing out of the Aci Trezza sea. Return to the hotel, dinner, • 2 half day guided tours (Taormina and Etna) and overnight stay. • Full day guided tour (Catania and Riviera Day 3 Most of the day free for relaxation or activities Ciclopi) Dinner at your leisure, perhaps a visit to the weekly open • Roundtrip transportation from airport to market. In the late afternoon departure for Taormina with an exclusive open bus tour, our guide will introduce hotel you to the beauties of this city: in the historic center • 2 half day bus rentals (Taormina and Etna) you'll fi nd the churches and the majestic Teatro Greco, • Full day bus rental (Catania and Riviera and along Corso Umberto high fashion boutiques and ar- Ciclopi) tisan shops. Back on the bus for Castelmola where you'll enjoy a fabulous view of the sparkling lights of Taormina. • Tasting of Sicilian liqueurs Here a stop at the Bar Turrisi for a taste of almond wine is a must… but the bar is only recommended for adults!! Package price per person 5 days Day 4 After breakfast departure for the morning ex- cursion to Mt. Etna. At 3,350 meters high it is the high- from € 289 est and largest active volcano in Europe. A spectacle of colors: the red of the lava, the white of the snow, and the clear blue of the sky are so captivating you could gaze at Day 3

With its penis gallery, it is among the seven most unusual bars in the world. Try the almond wine, a special aphrodisiac!

Contact: Jolanda & Fabiola • +39 0183 548 205 • [email protected] | 25 Tour Italia

Discovering the best UNESCO sites Genova - Firenze - Roma - Venezia

Travelling through Italy is an unique experience and discovery of beautiful World Heritage sites. You will visit important cities of great historical and artistic value as well as small picturesque villages situated in charming landscapes such as Portovenere overlooking the sea, Florence, the leaning tower of Pisa or the peaceful landscape of San Gimignano in Tuscany. The tour continues to Rome, the eternal city, then to the world famous Venice before turning back to Milan. In general we combine the visit of the most important beautiful Italian cities and natural landscape with some gour- met breaks to taste good wine and typical products. Day 1 Milan, , Sestri Levante Arrival at Milan airport and transfer towards Liguria. According to fl ight Programme details time, we could arrange a short city tour (local guide with supplement). Genoa, the most important city of Li- • 9 day coach rent from / to Milan incl. • Half day guide San Gimignano guria, owes its beautiful historic centre to its history as marine republic. Also the port contributes to the impor- parking fees (possible changes) • Full day guide Rome tance of Genoa. You will see around the fi nest examples • 1 night B&B sup 3 or 4 Hotel area • Full day guide Rome and Albani hills of palaces and buildings which embellish the town. Then hotel accommodation in Sestri Levante area. Din- Sestri Levante • Vip entrance fee to Vatican museums ner at leisure. • 2 nights B&B sup 3 or 4 Hotel area • Half day guide Venice Day 2 Portovenere - Pisa - Montecatini Terme Montecatini Terme • Half day guide Verona After breakfast, visit of Portovenere, one of the most beautiful towns on the west coast of Italy. In 1997 Por- • 3 nights B&B sup 3 or 4 Hotel Rome • Boat from Tronchetto to San Marco Square tovenere and the villages of Cinque Terre were desig- • 2 nights B&B sup 3 or 4 Hotel area and back nated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Here you can Venice taste the best Italian ice cream. Then continue to Tusca- Package price per person 9 days ny for the visit of Pisa and , where you • Ice cream in Portovenere will enjoy a spectacular view of three medieval marble • Wine tasting in Montepulciano monuments: the Baptistery, the Cathedral consecrated from € 925 to Virgin Maria and the world famous leaning Belltower • Aperitif in Rome which does not fall over...yet! Back to hotel late after- • Lunch at a a Farmhouse area Arezzo noon. Dinner at leisure. Day 3 Florence - Montecatini Terme After break- • Half day guide Portovenere fast you will visit of Florence, whose historial city centre • Half day guide Pisa is one of UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. European town, between the 14th and the 16th century Florence • Half day guide Florence astonished the world. Indeed, second only to Athens, Forence was a hotbed of creative minds who wanted to 26 | Contact: Jolanda & Fabiola • +39 0183 548 205 • [email protected] Tour Italia

create a new culture. Dante, Giotto, Botticelli, Leon- arranged for yuou to visit of The Vatican Museums, Cap- world. Venice owes most of its charm to the fairy- ardo, Brunelleschi, Donatello and the "divine" Michel- pella Sistina and St. Peter's Basilica. This impressive con- like light lagoon scenery as well as its array of works angelo have left their mark in the streets, the marble, struction had been built as mausoleum for Adrian and his of art created in both Western and Eastern style. the magnifi cent palaces and the museums of this town, family and later on it was converted into a papal fortress. The rest of the day is at our own disposal. If the a legacy of mankind. In the afternoon you can visit the During its centenarian history, it has been also used return fl ight the day after leaves in the morn- Uffi zi museums (optional and as free visit, without lo- as a prison. Visit of the Vatican Museums: among the ing from Milan, you can visit Verona this afternoon. cal guide) or just go around the elegant shops and works of art there are for example the Laokoon group, Back to hotel late afternoon. Dinner at leisure. the popular markets in the small streets and squares. the Belvedere Torso, masterpieces of the Greek art dat- Day 9 Verona - Milan After breakfast, departure Back to hotel late in the afternoon. Dinner at leisure. ing back to the I century BC. The Sistine Chapel, where towards Verona, the town of "Romeo and Giulietta" Day 4 San Gimignano - Montepulciano - Rome the papal election takes place, contains masterpieces where a local guide will show you its beauties. Verona After breakfast departure towards San Gimignano, a of Michelangelo, such as the Last Judgement. Of course is wonderfully located in the hilly landscape of the River charming historic town set on a hill above Val d'Elsa, also you can not miss St. Peter's Cathedral, Christianity's big- Adige, the second most important art city of art in Vene- called the Manhattan of the Middle Age. Well recognized gest and most impressive church, with art works of Mi- to after Venice. From Piazza Bra with the magnifi cent from a distance because of its famous medieval towers. chelangelo and Bernini. In front of it the fascinating St. Roman amphitheatre, one of the largest in Italy, you You will admire the beautiful view on the countryside Peter´s Square, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. can easily reach the old town strolling along the co- and enjoy its fl owered balconies and all the little shops. In the afternoon you will go outside of Rome, to the Al- lourful and lively Via Mazzini. A very important colony It historic centre is part of UNESCO World Heritage Site. bani hills area and Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer under the Roman Empire, Verona was later conquered Afterwards you go to Montepulciano for a tast- residence. Then go down to the Alban Lake, a volcanic by the Ostrogoths, the Langobards and the Franks. ing of excellent tuscan wines and farm prod- lake. From here we can enjoy the stunning view of the Then you go towards Milan airport. ucts, such as pecorino cheese and salami. various medieval towns with its castles. On the slopes Late afternoon you will reach Rome. Hotel accommoda- is pleasantly situated Frascati, the famous city of wine. tion and dinner at leisure. Back to hotel late afternoon. Dinner at leisure. Day 5 Rome Breakfast in hotel. Today you will make Day 7 Arezzo - area Venice After breakfast you will a "full immersion " in Ancient Rome, visiting the Capi- leave Rome and go towards . On the way toline Hill, symbol of Rome's power, which still serves on you will make a nice stop in Arezzo (Tuscany) to visit as the seat of the city government, the Roman Forum, the "Etruscan Town", where famous personalities have which was the centre of the ancient city; next to it the left their mark such as the poet Francesco Petrarca, Imperial Forums were built later on. Particularly fa- Piero della Francesca and his frescoes in the Church of mous is Trajan's Column (UNESCO World Heritage Site). San Francesco, Giorgio Vasari, the great architect who The Colosseum where in the past gladiatorial com- built the Uffi zi. Arezzo is mainly dedicated to handicraft bats took place will seen from outside. The tour goes as under the Etruscan and later the Roman rule. At that on with the Arch of Constantine and the Palatine. time Arezzo was famed for the handcrafted ceramics When it is time to have a break, we have arranged for you and metal. Today the town is renowned for the produc- the typical Italian "Aperitivo" with a drink of Prosecco and tion of golden jewellery. The Antique market on Piazza some snacks in one of the most beautiful squares of Rome. Grande and the surrounding streets are very charming. Then the tour continue with the visit of the most foun- In the surrounding we have organised for you a tains of Rome, such as Piazza della Repubblica with its light lunch in a " locanda" of charme situated in Naiadi Fountain. Not far away stands Moses Fountain the beautiful landscape of Tuscany. In the wine while the Fountain of Dioscuri is on the Quirinale Hill. bar, you one can taste the best of Tuscan and Ital- Atop of the hill stands the Quirinale Palace, the presiden- ian wines accompanied by little appetisers. tial residency. From here we reach Trevi Fountain, Rome´s Then transfer to hotel in area of Venice. Accommodation most renowned fountain. According to tradition, if you and dinner at leisure. throw a coin into the fountain, one day you will return to Day 8 Venice Breakfast in hotel. Then you will Rome. Not far away there are the famous Spanish Steps! enjoy a guided walking tour of Venice. Fairytale Back to hotel late in the afternoon. Dinner at leisure. beautiful, suspended between sea and sky, the town Day 6 Rome After breakfast , a vip-entrance has been of the Doges welcomes visitors from all over the

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The top 4 art cities of Italy:

For travelers making their way through Italy for the fi rst time, the most popular attractions in the country are a must- see. How could you miss the Colosseum in Rome, or Vatican City, or the Renaissance heart of Florence, or St. Mark's square in Venice and so on… This tour is a "best of" list of the best of Italy. You will begin with the "must see" sightsee- ings and along the way, you will enjoy Italy's culture, wine and cuisine.

Programme details • Bus rental for the whole tour from Rome to • Half day guide Venice Milan, as per programm • Half day boat-trip to Murano and Burano • 3 nights B&B in Rome • Half day guide Milano • Full day guide Rome • Entrance fees to the Dome • Entrance fees of Vatican Museums, Cappella • 2 nights B&B in Milan Sistina and St. Peter's Basilica • Half day guide Como • Half day guide Rome • Mini-cruise on Lake Como • Half day guide Florence Package price per person 9 days • 1 night B&B in Florence • Half day guide Pisa from € 904 • Ice-cream break in Pisa • Round Boat-transfer from Tronchetto to Hotel and back

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Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan Day 1 Arrival in Rome and transfer to Hotel. 3 nights "A room with a view, the movie". Check-in at your Hotel. Como is picturesquely located on the southern end of the on B&B. Day 5 Today we drive from Florence to Venice through lake with the same name. Narrow streets, artistic monu- Day 2 Our ancient Rome tour starts off in Piazza Vene- Pisa. A few steps along the medieval city walls, through ments and the ancient city walls serve to document the zia and then takes us from the Capitoline Hill, symbol of the colours and the confused din of voices of the multi- Middle Age times. After the visit of the city take some Rome's power, to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, ethnic market… until you will be in awe of a wonder! time to explore the shores of Lake Como, that are still where gladiatorial combats took place. The tour contin- The most famous square of Italy and maybe of the world today a succession of small towns with ancient stone ues to the Vatican, the smallest country of the world! Vis- takes your breath away: Piazza dei Miracoli is just there bell towers and sumptuous villas. In order to have a good it the Vatican Museums with masterpieces of the Greek for you with the Leaning Tower, the Baptistery, the Ca- vision of the beauties of the "Riviera" we highly recom- art dating back to the I century BC such as the famous thedral and the Monumental Cemetery. Check-in at your mend a boat tour. Few places are as romantic as Lake Laokoon group or the world-renowned masterpieces of Hotel in Venice for 2 nights on B&B. Como, and even fewer resorts as beautiful as Bellagio, called the "Pearl of the Lake". Michelangelo: the Sistine Chapel. Of course you can not Day 6 After breakfast we discover Venice. Fairytale miss St. Peter's Cathedral, Christianity's biggest and most beautiful, suspended between sea and sky, the town of Day 9 After breakfast transfer to airport Milan for de- impressive church, with art works of Michelangelo and the Doges welcomes its visitors from all over the world. parture. Arrivederci Italia! Bernini. Start your visit in Piazza San Marco, were the most fa- Day 3 Rome has a great number of fountains and mous venetian church has been build in 829. Continue squares. Our tour take you from Piazza della Repubblica along the Canal Grande and enjoying the architecture of with its Naiadi Fountain to Piazza Navona with the Foun- the Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. In the after- tain of the Four Rivers by Bernini, from the Quirinale Hill noon enjoy a halfday boat-trip to Murano and Burano. to Piazza del Popolo and its three churches devoted to Murano, worldwide renowned for its glass manufactur- Maria, from Trevi Fountain, Rome´s most renowned one, ing industry, is the largest island near Venice, instead to the famous Spanish Steps with its "Barcaccia" (Foun- Burano is an old fi shing port with picturesque houses, tain of the "ugly Boat"). Last but not least Piazza Bocca famous thanks to its lace making school. della Verita, the famous mouth of truth. Afternoon at Day 7 After breakfast departure for Milan. Despite be- disposal to enjoy the eternal city. ing a modern city and one of the most important world Day 4 After breakfast wave goodbye to Rome and pro- economics centres, Milan is rich in magnifi cent arts trea- ceed to Florence. Time goes by, yet Florence remains one sures. The Dome Square, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele of the most important cities of art in the world. Dante, II with its elegant shops and cafes and the renowned Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo, Brunelleschi, Donatello and Teatro La Scala represent a popular meeting point. Visit the "divine" Michelangelo have left their mark in the the imposing Dome decorated in Gothic style with thou- streets, the marble, the magnifi cent palaces and the sands of marble statues and spires and the golden "Ma- museums of the town, a legacy of mankind. Everywhere donnina" at the top. Today, Milan is renowned worldwide visitors will be in awe of the culture of the "Beautiful". for the fashion designers...so do not miss some time to The elegant shops in the city centre and the popular shop! Check-in in Hotel. markets combine with the scenes and panoramas like Day 8 Today is dedicated to the visit of the Como Lake.

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Florence, Rome & Amalfi ... enjoy the dolce vita!

This tour is dedicated to you, curios travellers, who want to discover unknown places, hidden corners even in famous and most visited cities... Florence with its small streets and imposing palaces, Rome which off ers much more than only the Colosseum to be visited and in the end a jump to Southern Italy where Sorrento peninsula reveals its mis- chievous panoramic views on , glamour aspects on the Piazzetta in Capri and the spirit of ancient times in the archeological site of Pompeii.

Programme details • Coach rental for the tour (as per program) • 4 nights B&B in the area of Sorrento • 3 nights B&B in Florence • Full day guide Amalfi coast • Full day guide Florence • Full day guide Capri • Half day guide Pisa • Speed boat from Sorrento to Capri and back • Half day guide Lucca • Minibus rental for island tour • 2 nights Be&B in Rome • Full day guide , Vesuvius and • Half day guide Vatican incl. Vatican Museums Pompeii (max 4 hrs) • Half day guide Naples and assistance during • Reservation fees (without queue) for visit of transfer at the airport Vatican museums, Cappella Sistina and St. Package price per person 10 days Peter's Chatedral entrance and whispers • Full day guide Rome from € 999 • Half day guide Sorrento • Mozzarella tasting incl. typical products and beverages in Sorrento area

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Day 1 Arrival in Florence and transfer to Hotel for atorial combats took place. Rome has also a great num- Day 9 After breakfast a local guide will take us to check-in. 3 nights on B&B. ber of famous fountains and squares. Our tour takes you discover the story of world-famous Pompeii and its sur- Day 2 Time goes by, yet Florence remains one of the from Piazza della Repubblica with its Naiadi Fountain to rounding. One of Europe´s active volcanoes, Vesuvio is most important cities of art in the world. Dante, Giotto, Piazza Navona with the Fountain of the Four Rivers by the most renowned one because of the earthquake and Botticelli, Leonardo, Brunelleschi, Donatello and the "di- Bernini, from the Quirinale Hill to Piazza del Popolo and eruption that in 79 A.C. destroyed and buried Hercula- vine" Michelangelo have left their mark in the streets, its three churches, from Trevi Fountain, Rome´s most re- neum, Pompeii and many villas in the surrounding. The the marble, the magnifi cent palaces and the museums nowned one, to the famous Spanish Steps with its "Bar- eruption buried it under tons of ash that well-preserved of the town, a legacy of mankind. The elegant shops in caccia" (Fountain of the "ugly Boat"). Last but not least the city for centuries till initial rediscovery in 1599. Pom- the city centre and the popular markets combine with Piazza Bocca della Verita, where the famous mouth of peii has been a tourist destination for over 250 years and the views and panoramas of the famous movie "A room truth is housed. today it has UNESCO World Heritage Site status and is with a view". Day 6 Today we drive from Rome to Sorrento. Stroll one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy. Mt. Vesuvio off ers a dramatic view of the Gulf of Naples. Day 3 After breakfast departure for Pisa. A few steps around the town, that straddles the cliff s overlooking along the medieval city walls, through the colours and the gulf of Naples and Mt Vesuvius, to discover its his- Day 10 Breakfast, check-out and transfer to Naples the confused din of voices of the multiethnic market… toric centre, that will take you back in time. Sorrento has for departure. The beauty of Naples is proverbial, in al- until you will be in awe of a wonder! The most famous always been a tourist destination of excellence, included most no other city in the world poets were inspired in square of Italy and maybe of the world takes your breath in the Grand Tour and then visited by elite holidaymakers a similar way. With its numberless remains of its almost away: Piazza dei Miracoli is just there for you with the in the nineteenth-century. A buff alo mozzarella tasting 3000-year history, with the ever-changing atmosphere Leaning Tower, the Baptistery, the Cathedral and the is also planned…do not miss it! Check-in in your hotel of its historic centre, a barrage of music, colours and Monumental Cemetery. In the afternoon we head to in the area of the Sorrento peninsula. 3 nights on B&B. smells, with its narrow streets and multi-storey houses, Lucca, that with ist 4 km long city walls, boasts a true Day 7 Deemed by UNESCO as an outstanding example with its lively friendly lovable people, Naples never fails unspoiled artistic and historical heritage of Tuscany. The of a Mediterranean landscape, the Amalfi Coast is a be- to captivate visitors… narrow streets, the ancient towers, the green gardens guiling combination of great beauty and gripping drama: and the typical shops in the historic centre give a charm- coastal mountains plunge into the sea in a stunning ver- ing touch to this town. tical scene of precipitous crags, picturesque towns and Day 4 After breakfast wave goodbye to Florence and lush forests set between the green rolling hills and the drive south toward Rome. 2 nights on B&B. Arrival and blue sea and sky. The Amalfi coast stretches from Posi- check-in. After lunch on own visit the smallest country of tano (stop only to take pictures to panorama from the the world: Vatican City. Visit the Vatican Museums with road above) through Amalfi , Minori and Maiori. Ravello masterpieces of the Greek art dating back to the I cen- is located in the hills above Amalfi and off ers stunning tury BC such as the famous Laokoon group or the world- views of the Mediterranean. renowned masterpieces of Michelangelo: the Sistine Day 8 Capri, overlooking the amazing Gulf of Salerno, Chapel. Of course you can not miss St. Peter's Cathedral, is a 11 sq km of natural and artifi cial beauties that has Christianity's biggest and most impressive church, with never stopped enchanting people. The lovely Capri Is- art works of Michelangelo and Bernini. land owes much of its appeal to its wonderful natural Day 5 Today we will discover the eternal city. Our scenery; the landscape is marked by terraced gardens, ancient Rome tour starts off in Piazza Venezia and then white houses and farmed land. The small town of Capri takes us from the Capitoline Hill, symbol of Rome's pow- is the main centre of the island and its "Piazzetta" (small er, to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, where gladi- square) is must-see in Italy. Do not miss the historical re- mains from Roman times. Contact: Jolanda & Fabiola • +39 0183 548 205 • [email protected] | 31 Tour Italia

From ancient Pompeii

An unusual combination to get to know two of the most beautiful regions of Southern Italy. After visiting the Amalfi coast, the famous ruins of Pompeii and the charming island of Capri, passing through plan- tations of lemon trees, olive groves and vineyards, we arrive in Puglia, a territory rich in traditions, colours and fl a- vours. On the way, you visit Trani and see its typical Norman herringbone patterns. Then the Castellana Caves and the Trulli of Alberobello with a typical lunch of local specialities. To round off the journey, we will visit Castel del Monte (World Heritage site), considered to be one of the most beautiful castles in the world.

Programme details • 8 day coach rent from Naples to Bari or Brindisi • 3 nights HB in sup. 3 /4 hotel in Sorrento / Castellammare di Stabia area • 4 nights HB in sup. 3 /4 hotel in Fasano / Cisternino area • Full day guided tour to Amalfi coast • Full day guided tour Castellana Grotte and Alberobello • Full day guided tour Matera and Altamura • Half day guided tour of Pompeii • Half day guided tour of Castel del Monte • Light lunch including drinks in a Trullo (Alberobello) • 1 focaccia tasting (Altamura) Package price per person 8 days from € 618

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to the amazing trulli of Alberobello

Day 1 Sorrento area built by Friedrich II. Arrival at hotel in Monopoli area, for means 'High Walls'). Here we taste the exquisite focaccia Arrival on the Sorrento Peninsula, accommodation in 3 nights HB. (kind of white pizza). hotel for 3 nights HB. Day 5 Castellana Caves / Alberobello Day 8 Day 2 Amalfi coast Breakfast and departure for a full day trip to Castellana After breakfast and a fi nal photo, departure for return After breakfast, a trip to the so-called "Costiera amalfi ta- and Alberobello. The long underground caves off er visi- journey. na" (Unesco World Heritage Site), an area of great physi- tors a unique natural spectacle. You will penetrate about cal beauty and natural diversity. It has been intensively 1 km into the caves on a one-hour tour. We continue settled by human communities since the early Middle on to Alberobello, where a typical lunch is booked in a Ages. There are a number of towns such as Amalfi and friendly restaurant in a real "Trullo". After lunch, we visit Ravello with architectural and artistic works of great sig- the town, capital of the round stone houses called "Trul- nifi cance. The rural areas show the versatility of the in- li". There are more than one thousand trulli in the centre, habitants in adapting their use of the land to the diverse which has been named a World Heritage Site. Return to nature of the terrain, which ranges from terraced vine- hotel in late afternoon and dinner. yards and on the lower slopes to wide upland Day 6 Castel del Monte pastures. Return to hotel in late afternoon for dinner. After breakfast, departure for Castel del Monte (Unesto Day 3 Pompeii World Heritage Site) where a local guide awaits you for After breakfast, the morning is dedicated to a guided the visit. tour of Pompei (Unesco World Heritage Site). Pompei, The Castel del Monte is an exquisite masterpiece of Swa- the city buried by the great eruption of Vesuvius, is an bian architecture, built by Friedrich III on one of the high- impressive and revealing insight into life in antiquity. est spots in the Murge. Here, Apulian masonry, the new You will visit the Antiquarium, which contains docu- court lifestyle, and classical inheritance come together. ments about the city's history and articles of daily use as Afternoon free and return to the hotel for dinner. Free well as models of mills. afternoon and return to hotel for dinner. Afternoon at leisure and return to hotel for dinner. Day 7 Matera and Altamura Day 4 Trani - Fasano / Cisternino area Breakfast and departure for full day excursion. Today Breakfast and departure for Puglia. Along the way, a we discover the ancient town Matera, famous for the so stop in Trani. The architectural jewel of the city of Trani called "": cave dwellings of tufa stone laid is its beautiful cathedral, also called the "queen of Apu- on each other half bored into the rock walls. This is the lian cathedrals." It is the highest expression of the Ro- most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settle- manesque style in Apulia and stands before the square ment in the Mediterranean region, perfectly adapted to Swabian Castle, one of the most impressive structures its terrain and ecosystem (Unesco World Heritage Site). Then the visit continue to Altamura (the name means

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Sicily and Malta two islands under the same sun This tour will take you to the southern islands of the Mediterranean sea, to discover their unique cultures. When you think of Italy, you probably think mostly of Roman ruins, but Sicily is a real melting pot of cultures. Over the centu- ries, the island was colonized by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, Normans before becoming part of , then the Bourbon Kingdom, and fi nally part of Italy. You can still fi nd all the traces that these conquerors left behind: Greeks and Romans ruins together with Byzantine and Arab art all at once! The Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Romans and the Byzantines, all left their traces also on the Maltese Islands. Until 1530 Malta was actually an exten- sion of Sicily: the conquerors who ruled over Sicily also governed the Maltese Islands till Charles V bequeathed Malta to the Knights, who took Malta through a new golden age. The history of Malta is a long and colourful one dating back to the dawn of civilisation, the remains of which are the mysterious temples dedicated to the goddess of fertility.

Programme details • Bus at disposal for the whole tour (on Sicily • Full day guided tour of Catania and Siracusa and then on Malta) B&B in sup. 3 /4 • 1 night Bed and breakfast in Modica-Pozzallo • 2 nights B&B in Palermo area • Full day guide Palermo and Monreale • 1 Ferry tickets Pozzallo-Malta • Full day guide Erice and Selinunte • Half day guide Valletta • Marzipan tasting in Erice • 3 nights B&B 4in Malta • 1 night B&B in Agrigento • Full day guide Gozo Island • Half day guide Tempel valley in Agrigento • 1 Round ferry tickets Malta-Gozo • 2 nights B&B in the area of Giardini Naxos- • Full day guide Mdina Letojanni-Roccalumera Package price per person 10 days • Full day guided tour Etna and Taormina • Honey tasting in Zaff erana Etnea from € 739

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Day 1 Arrival in Palermo airport and transfer to hotel 2000 metre journey you can admire a contrast-fi lled huge cylindrical rock isolated at the entrance of the bay, for check-in, dinner at leisure. landscape with lava fl ows, brooms, chestnut trees, and an inland sea that links to the open sea through a natu- Day 2 After breakfast we visit Palermo, a history vineyards. Afterwards in Zaff erana Etnea a delicious ral opening, and the famous Azure Window (Tieqa), an and art-packed city with its Cathedral and the Palazzo sampling of honey-based-products is planned. Then incredible arch shaped by erosion. We will then move dei Normanni in which the precious Cappella Palatina is you spend the rest of the day in the charming town of onto Rabat to visit its citadel and learn about history and found. The art heritage and traditions of Palermo date Taormina: old town boasts amazingly scenic views, espe- traditions of the island. We then proceed towards Xlendi, back to ancient times. Dominated by diff erent and con- cially from the ancient Theatre, the narrow picturesque one of Gozo's typical and picturesque fi shing villages trasting cultures, the town and the region as a whole streets, elegant boutique and craft shops. Return to the with a fi nal stop at the Megalithic Temples of Ggantija: were a melting pot of cultures and the famous Cappella hotel. an impressive pre-historic monument. Palatina off ers fi nest examples of oriental-style mosaics. Day 6 Breakfast, check-out and departure for Cata- Day 9 Today our fi rst stop is Mdina, the heart of the In the afternoon we head to Monreale with its impres- nia. The old town is one of eastern Sicily's baroque jewels island, also known as the Silent City. The old capital is sive Arab-Norman cathedral and an astonishing Bene- with the splendid Piazza Duomo and the Via dei Crociferi a true city-museum, entirely encircled with bastions set dictine cloister with 228 decorated double columns. with its churches and convents. A visit to the fi sh market on a rocky outcrop, and a maze of alleys lined with patri- Day 3 Breakfast and departure to explore the prov- (every morning except Sundays) is a must-see. We head cians residences, baroque churches, convents and palac- ince of Trapani. Erice, founded in the 9th century, is a to Syracuse, the "fi nest and largest of all Greek cities" es. The next stop is the Ta' Qali crafts village allowing you charming location with beautiful views and has a medi- according to Cicero, to admire its splendid Greek theatre to see local artisans at work developing typical objects eval core which has been preserved intact. From here we and the old town on the island of Ortigia. Not to miss are (lace, weaving, silver fi ligree and blown glass) and where enjoy a breathtaking view of Trapani, the Egadi Islands the Temple of Apollo and the Temple of Athena - the lat- the potters will disclose their secrets. The excursion will and the inland countryside. While strolling around the ter converted into a church by eraly christians and today continue with a visit to the botanical gardens of San city, we will sample its famous marzipan in a local pas- cathedral of Syracuse, where remains of Greek architec- Anton, then to Mosta, with its famous parish church of try shop. Later we continue to Segesta, with the ancient ture are still clearly visible. Continue to the hotel in the the Assumption, a neo-classic building whose 67m high theatre, the only building enclosed by city walls where southern part of Sicily. 1 night on B&B. dome is one of the biggest in Europe. historical remains are still visible, and the temple. Then Day 7 Early departure (according to ferry schedule) Day 10 After breakfast transfer to Malta Airport. we head to Agrigento for overnight. B&B. to bid farewell to magical Sicily and say "Hello" to Malta. Day 4 After breakfast, a local guide will take you to First step is to visit the capital city - Valletta - which is discover "The Valley of the Temples" of Agrigento, an rich in history and monuments. This excursion will al- archaeological site which is one of the best examples low you to discover the Upper Barrakka Gardens that of classic Greek civilization; it has been named a "World dominate the Grand Harbour, St. John's co-cathedral, Heritage Site" by UNESCO. The most famous temple, the the cathedral museum as well as the oratory to view the Temple of Concord, is the best-preserved building of famous Caravaggio masterpiece. Check-in at the hotel. 3 the whole Magna Grecia. The trip resumes towards the nights on B&B. eastern part of the island, reaching the area of Giardini Day 8 In the morning, departure by coach towards Naxos-Letojanni-Roccalumera for check in at the hotel. Marfa to take the 30-minute-ferry for Mgarr, the main 2 nights on B&B. port of Gozo. You will have thus the occasion to pass by Day 5 Today you head out for , a 3340m another island of the Maltese archipelago, Comino (1800 high volcano that provides wonderful and fascinating metres in length) on which only aabout ten people live. view at all times, particularly in winter with its snow After arriving in Gozo, we will head for Dwejra Bay, an capped crater. The volcano is still active and along the impressive natural site that includes the Fungus Rock, a

Contact: Jolanda & Fabiola • +39 0183 548 205 • [email protected] | 35 TermsTerms ofof ServiceService

1. Contract gram or fax if it is urgent, no later than 4 days prior ages caused by the Client‘s or services rendered by The contract consists of the general terms and to the departure together with the full details of the Third Party Suppliers and not included in the travel conditions, the tour confi rmation and the travel ar- transferee (surname and family name, sex, birth arrangements. rangements set out in the brochure or fl yers. date, nationality). 11. Complaints Any changes requested by the Client, any altera- A fee equal to € 29,00 will be charged by Gadis Any disappointment or complaint which the Client tions in the travel arrangements featured in the Tourist Service to cover the costs incurred. may have concerning their travel arrangements brochure and any special request must be made in 6. Cancellation must be reported immediately to Gadis Tourist Ser- writing and outlined in the contract. 6.1. If the Client chooses to cancel their participa- vice so that Gadis Tourist Service or its representa- If travel arrangements as set out in the tour con- tion, cancellation charges are outlined as follows: tive may deal with it. fi rmation are found to be diff erent from the Client‘s Any complaint in respect of Gadis Tourist Service request, the tour confi rmation itself represents a • up to 28 days prior to the departure date 5 % of should be made in writing and sent by registered new proposal from Gadis Tourist Service, to which the price paid mail or fax within 14 days of the end of the tour set Gadis Tourist Service shall be bound for 14 days, and • up to 21 days prior to the departure date 15 % out in the contract. Claims reported after the 14- which the Client may accept by returning the same of the price paid days period will be considered only if the Client was within the above term of 14 days. • up to 14 days prior to the departure date 35 % of the price paid prevented from meeting the deadline for reasons beyond its control. Anyway any complaint becomes 2. Terms of Payment • up to 7 days prior to the departure date 50 % of ineff ective 6 months after the end of the tour as 80% of the price stated in the tour confi rmation the price paid stated in the contract. form is payable 4 weeks prior to the departure date. • within less than 7 days prior to the departure The remaining 20% is due 2 weeks prior to the de- date 100 % of the price paid 12. Refund parture date upon delivery of travel documents. 6.2. Notwithstanding with the terms and condi- The client agrees and guarantees that: If the Client makes the booking 2 weeks prior to tions stated in other documents, the terms and • they are a travel agent / tour operator duly au- the departure date the full balance of the price must conditions of this contract will remain in full force thorised to conduct their business in compliance be paid immediately after delivery of travel docu- and eff ect. with any rules and regulations, orders and de- ments. 6.3. The parties can withdraw from the contract crees by the relevant authorities; Any amendment to article 2 must be agreed upon without any refund in the event of unforeseen • They conduct their business in compliance with in writing by the parties. circumstances (events of force majeure, war, any rules and regulations, orders and decrees by 3. Price alteration riots, epidemics, acts of restrictions of govern- the relevant authorities; A price change may be necessary the contract has ments, acts of God, breakdowns, destruction of • It has stipulated insurance policies in compli- been signed subject to signifi cant changes in trans- lodgings, strikes beyond the parties‘ control and ance with any rules and regulations, orders and portation costs, cost of fuel, taxes and fares such as similar events. decrees by the relevant authorities and anyway landing taxes or embarkation fees levied by ports 7. Abandonment consistently with its business activity. and airports, and the exchange rate. If for any reason whatsoever the Client is unable The Client shall indemnify Gadis Tourist Service Price alteration shall be proportional to the above to proceed with a tour, Gadis Tourist Service will against any statement of claim brought by tour mentioned costs and the cost details shall be pro- refund the Client subject to Gadis Tourist service be- participants, which shall be compensated direct- vided to the Client. ing refunded by Third Party Suppliers. ly by the Client(without prejudice to any claims No price change is possible in the 20 days prior to of the Client against Gadis Tourist Service should the departure date. 8. Minimum number of participants a liability of Gadis Tourist Service occur in accor- If a tour is subject to a minimum number of par- dance with the terms of the contract). 4. Alterations to travel arrangements ticipants as outlined in the travel arrangements and Furthermore, the Client shall indemnify Gadis Tour- Changes or alterations to the arrangements fea- that minimum number is not met, Gadis Tourist Ser- ist Service against any claims from third party tured in the contract are allowed, provided that vice may have to cancel the tour 2 weeks in advance suppliers in respect of any cancellations made in they are necessary, not signifi cant and do not aff ect of the commencement. relation to services booked. the major features of the tour(see art. 6.2). Any changes, either requested by Gadis Tourist 9. Cooperation of the Client 13. Information on passport, visa and Service or the Client, must be made in writing. For The Client undertakes to avoid or reduce any dam- health provisions any alterations requested by the Client Gadis Tour- ages. Gadis Tourist Service shall, within its possibilities, inform the Client about any material variation in ist Service reserves the right to levy a fee of € 29,00 10. Liability to cover the costs incurred; Gadis Tourist Service is the general instruction contained in the description Gadis Tourist Service shall not be liable to the Client of the trip. entitled to a price increase as a result of changes for any damage to the Client or his belongings that In no event Gadis Tourist Service shall be respon- requested by the Client. are caused by force majeure, unforeseen events or sible with respect to the concession and delivery of third parties. Anyway, Gadis Tourist Service‘s liabil- 5. Booking transfer any necessary visas from foreign authorities. The Client may choose to change their booking by ity is limited in accordance with international con- ventions, in particular: The Client is the sole responsible of the compliance transferring it to another subject, provided that with all the instructions necessary to carry out the • the Warsaw Convention, 12 October 1929; the transferee meets all conditions of the original trip. Any inconvenience which arises from the non booking. • the Berne Convention, 25 February 1961; compliance with the instructions above shall be on Anyway, the request for transfer is to be sent to • the Brussels Convention, 20 April 1970. the risk of the Client. Gadis Tourist Service by registered mail, or by tele- Gadis Tourist Service shall not be liable for any dam-

36 | Contact: +39 0183 548 1 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Team

Gadis Tourist Service shall provide the Client with the Who is taking care information referred to passports, visas and sanitary standards in accordance with Italian laws, with no of your groups liability for any change made by the competent au- thorities (of which he is not aware notwithstanding its common diligence). The Boss Should the Client has not complied with rules ap- [email protected] plicable to the entrance of the traveller or should a Toscana, Umbria, Marche, visa has not been obtained due to negligence of the Claudio +39 0183 548 204 Emilia Romagna Client and as a consequence thereof the traveller can [email protected] not proceed on the trip, Gadis Tourist Service can re- quest payments of any expenses incurred Piemonte & Valle d´Aosta, Monica +39 0183 548 313 14. Miscellaneous Liguria, Côte d‘Azur A . Unless otherwise stated the number of free pas- [email protected] Roswitha +39 0183 548 312 sengers granted to separate groups for a minimum number of payers of 25 passengers is calculated on placement in double rooms. Marta +39 0183 548 202 Sardegna & Corsica B. The total number of single rooms is subject to the [email protected] number of double and triple rooms, whereby a Patrizia +39 0183 548 208 single room (including single room for the driver) is available every 4 double or triple room. Veronica +39 0183 548 316 C. The prices stated in the contract are based on Tour Italien, Abruzzo, Molise, groups with a minimum of 25 participants (includ- Campania, Puglia, Calabria & Sicilia Rita +39 0183 548 310 ing the driver). For smaller groups a price increase will be set on a case by case basis. The Client may [email protected] withdraw from the contract no later than 2 weeks Marketing prior to the departure date if the price increase ex- Fabiola +39 0183 548 201 [email protected] ceeds 20% of the increase stated in the contract. D. The names and addresses of the service suppliers Jolanda +39 0183 548 205 Vittoria +39 0183 548 206 will be communicated upon receiving the defi nite rooming-list, no later then 10 days before the be- ginning of the services, unless otherwise agreed Roma [email protected] between Gadis Tourist Service and the Client. Accounting E. E Any objection against Gadis Tourist Service in- Graziano +39 0183 548 611 [email protected] voices (price, number of passengers, etc.) shall be taken into account only if they are communicated Piera +39 0183 548 210 to Gadis Tourist Service within 35 days from in- Lago Maggiore, Lombardia, voice date. After this date the invoice shall be col- lected for the full amount. Lago di Como Irene +39 0183 548 225 [email protected] 15. Insurance Alice +39 0183 548 228 Gadis Tourist Service has taken out the following in- surance policy: Lucia +39 0183 548 413 ASSICURAZIONI ASSITALIA - polizza n. 042/00469265 Daniela +39 0183 548 224 Noemi +39 0183 548 412 16. Law and arbitration The contract shall be subject to Italian law. Graphics & Software support [email protected] The seat of arbitration for any controversy arising Trentino Alto Adige, Lago di Garda, out of, or in connection with, this contract is Imperia. Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia Marco +39 0183 548 207 [email protected] Michel +39 0183 548 248 Maria +39 0183 548 510 Manuela +39 0183 548 248 Michela +39 0183 548 511 Paolo +39 0183 548 207

Gadis Contacts Contact: +39 0183 548 1 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it | 37 Good to know A trip to Italy... Live and let live... there may be signifi cant diff erences between hotels If you choose a central hotel please consider that in the same category, for example some 2 star hotels may off er excellent services. We are at your disposal Bus-transportation rules there may be lot of noise and traffi c congestion in the city centre. for to-the-point advice! In the last years new rules have been introduced by city administrations in the fi eld of bus service (for in- Italians are lively people who like going out in the stance Milan, Florence, Montecatini, Pisa, Bologna, open air. In summer time they spend the evening in Unless otherwise Rome, Monaco). the squares or take a stroll along the promenade.. specifi ed These rules may vary from municipality to munici- Heating pality. Please call us for further information! Law currently in force in Italy govern the use of heat- • The prices indicated in the catalogue are based on groups of minimum 25 participants, rooms with Rooms ing which may vary from region to region and sub- ject to weather conditions. Heating is normally only shower/WC and a stay of min. 3 nights. Prices Single rooms are limited and are often available at needed from the end of October to the end of April. for students refer to accommodation in 3-4 beds supplements. Hotels off er double rooms where third rooms. or fourth beds can be added easily, for example for a Electric current • Travel arrangements include one place free every family with a baby‘s cot. The voltage is 220V. Travellers expecting 110V are 25 participants in double room (incl. driver and Breakfast advised to bring adapters. tour guide). Any other „free place provisions“ ap- plying will be set out in details in the specifi c of- When in Rome do as Romans do! National holidays fer. Hotels in Italy serve traditional breakfast consist- On holidays most museums and archaeological sites • During excursions only those costs are included, ing of cappuccino, espresso, tea, milk, croissants or close, although this may be less absolute in big cit- which are explicitly mentioned in the list at the bread with jam. Anyway in many hotels items such ies. We will gladly ask local information centres for end of every excursion programme. All entrance cheese, eggs and diff erent cuts are available as small you. fees are not included and must be paid on the supplement. Tipping and extras spot, when not stated diff erently. Swimming pool Service is usually included in the bill. Sometimes • In most of the hotels set out in the catalogue a Swimming pools are usually open from the end of restaurants will have „Pane e Coperto“ (bread and full breakfast or breakfast buff et is available at a May until midst September but this may vary from cover charge) on the bill, deck chairs and beach um- supplement. We stay at your full disposal for any season to season. Water is heated, deck chairs and brella, telephone, drinks. queries you might have on this respect. beach umbrella are at guests‘ disposal. Still, in Italy it is customary to leave a coin behind in • This catalogue is valid until 31.12.2016 and com- cafes and bars (about 10% of the price). plies with Italian and European law. If the law referred to is amended after 01.03.2016, Gadis Banks reserves the right to these amendments. Banks in Italy are open Monday through Friday from • All our off ers and confi rmations are subject to 8:30 am to 1:20 pm and from 2:30 pm to 3.30 pm. alterations in case of our suppliers altering their Dedicated exchange facilities are not to be found accords taken with us. quite often, therefore we suggest that you change • All prices included in the catalogue are based money or cheques in banks. VisaCard are accepted upon 10% VAT hotel fares and 22% VAT for other almost everywhere. services. If the above fares are increased, we re- Shops serve the right to adjust prices accordingly. Shops are usually open from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm and • Surcharges apply in the following periods: from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm, although times vary from Easter • Labor Day • Assumption Day • Pentecost • region to region, for instance in southern Italy shops Corpus Domini • Day of german unity stay open from 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm. In tourist areas • Surcharges apply as well as for local exhibitions or in summer shops can open in the evening. events such as the Carnival in Venice, the Cinema Festival in Cannes, Formula 1 races etc. Clothing Although Italy has a mild climate, it is recommended Italian national holidays: to wear warm clothes in the low season. Churches 01.01 New Year‘s Day in Italy are fi rst of all sacred places and not monu- 06.01 Epiphany ments, therefore casual wear is expected. It is not 25.04 Liberation Day permitted to visit churches in miniskirts, shorts or in uncovered shoulders. Men must wear a shirt and are 02.06 Republic‘s Day not permitted to wear short pants. 15.08 Assumption 01.11 All Saints‘ Day Hotel facilities Hotel facilities in Italy may vary considerably from 08.12 Immaculate Conception region to region. 25+26.12 Christmas New tourist resorts off er more modern facilities Printed on environmentally friendly paper than traditional resorts, however the hotel star rat- ing does not always mirror actual standards and

38 | Contact: +39 0183 548 1 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it Italy

Contact: +39 0183 548 1 • [email protected] • www.gadis.it | 39 A unique incoming partner for Italy. 6 offi ces, 23 employees, over 2.000 groups per year and the most comprehensive and refreshing product off er on the market!

More information and all other off ers are WWee aarere rrightight onon thethe spot!spot! always freely available on our website LIGURIA TOSCANA Località Bra 1 Via A. Modigliani 19/C 18021 Borgomaro (IM) 56016 Vicopisano (PI) www.gadis.it T. +39 0183 548 1 T. +39 0183 548 310 F. +39 0183 548 222 F. +39 0183 548 322 [email protected] [email protected]

LAGO MAGGIORE VERONA ROMA MILANO Via Stazione 15 Via Fontanelle 6 Via Monte Massico 53 Via Candiani 120 28831 Baveno (VB) 37047 S.Bonifacio (VR) 00139 Roma (RM) 20558 Milano (MI) T. +39 0183 548 410 T. +39 0183 548 510 T. +39 0183 548 611 T. +39 0183 548 548 F. +39 0183 548 422 F. +39 0183 548 522 F. +39 0183 548 222 F. +39 0183 548 422 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

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