Generated Promotion

Call (631) 569-2620 for more information or to book today! Mention code 9284339

Tour Operator

Collette Vacations

Offer

Offer valid through 8/31/2010

Duration

12 Days

Itinerary

Day	Destination	Description
Air 1	Overnight Flight	Overnight Flight :
Day 2	Stresa	Stresa, Italy - Tour Begins : Begin in Stresa, on the shore of Lago Maggiore. A boat transports you to your welcome dinner on Isola dei Pescatori, the most picturesque of the Borromean Islands. Todaydinnerwill be included.
Day 3	Stresa	Stresa - Lago Maggiore - Locarno, Switzerland - Stresa : Travel the breathtaking Centovalli Express for an unforgettable train journey through the mountains into Switzerland to visit the lovely town of Locarno. Nestled on a glorious sweeping curve of the bay, Locarno is known for having the most sunshine in Switzerland! Back in Stresa, the evening is at leisure to explore the piazzas, flower-lined cobblestone streets and lakeside promenades. Todaybreakfast will be included.
Day 4	Italian Riviera	Stresa - Orta - Italian Riviera : LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Your Tour Manager helps you discover the origin and history of the Italian language and teaches key phrases that will help you in your travels. Depart Italy's lake region for one of the most picturesque spots of the Ligurian coast, Sestri Levante. Stop at Lake Orta, one of Italy's hidden treasures and take a boat to Isola di San Giulio to walk the grounds of this gorgeous working convent. Experience this enchanting lakeside resort with its many outdoor cafes and shops before continuing on to the Italian Riviera. Todaybreakfast and dinnerwill be included.
Day 5	Cinque Terre	Italian Riviera - Portofino - Cinque Terre : Travel to the seaside town of Santa Margherita Ligure for a boat ride* to glamorous Portofino. Long a getaway for the wealthy, the town's colorful harbor, dotted with fishing boats and mega yachts, sits against a backdrop of pastel-colored buildings. Continue to the lovely Cinque Terre. A spectacular train journey through the villages of Cinque Terre traverses a rugged coastal area with terraced vineyards to this nearly inaccessible string of fishing villages tucked between the mountains and the Mediterranean. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring these magical villages at leisure. Todaybreakfast will be included.
Day 6	Cortona	Italian Riviera - Lucca - Cortona : Drive to the city of Lucca, a hidden gem encircled by 16th century Renaissance walls. A locally guided walking tour of the charming piazza visits the 14th century Cathedral of San Martino, Lucca's medieval streets and Piazza Napoleone. End in the Etruscan town of Cortona, at a villa tucked away in the beautiful Tuscan countryside, where you will enjoy a relaxing four-night stay. Todaybreakfast and dinnerwill be included.
Day 7	Cortona	Cortona - Florence - Cortona : Explore Florence, the cradle of Italy's Renaissance, with a walk through the local market showcasing the fresh ingredients used in Tuscan recipes. A walking tour highlights the city's treasures and monuments, including the Piazza del Duomo, center of religious life in medieval Florence, and Piazza della Signoria with its many sculptures. Visit the Museo della Casa Fiorentina Antica, housed in the 14th century Palazzo Davanzati, to experience medieval Florentine life. Take time to explore independently before returning to Cortona. At dinner you will sample delicious Tuscan cuisine in one of medieval Cortona's typical locandas. Todaybreakfast and dinnerwill be included.
Day 8	Cortona	Cortona - Siena - San Gimignano - Cortona : Travel to rose-hued Siena for an expert-led walking tour through narrow medieval streets to the dramatic cathedral. Next, visit the hilltop town of San Gimignano, punctuated by tall medieval towers, affording spectacular views of the Tuscan hills. Todaybreakfast and dinnerwill be included.
Day 9	Cortona	Cortona - Tuscan Countryside - Cortona : A visit to a winery in the heart of Tuscany showcases the wine cellar, family estate, vineyards, olive groves and stunning views. The winery's chef gives a Tuscan cooking lesson before serving an authentic Tuscan lunch, expertly paired with wines produced on site. Return to the villa this afternoon for leisure time to stroll the gardens or indulge in a spa service. Todaybreakfast and lunchwill be included.
Day 10	Venice	Cortona - Bologna - Venice : Depart for Venice, stopping en route in Bologna. A guided walking tour of the center, virtually untouched since the Renaissance, highlights specialty food shops for an opportunity to sample the local wares. Continue toward incomparable Venice, built on 117 islands with 150 canals and 400 bridges. Todaybreakfast will be included.
Day 11	Venice	Venice : This morning enjoy a boat trip** to Murano Island for a fascinating glass-blowing demonstration. Return to charming St. Mark's Square for a locally-guided walking tour featuring the Clock Tower, St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace and the legendary Bridge of Sighs. This evening, partake in a farewell dinner celebrating a marvelous trip to Italy. Todaybreakfast and dinnerwill be included.
Day 12	Depart for Home	Venice - Depart for Home : Todaybreakfast will be included.

Dates/Pricing

Lodging

	Regina Palace Hotel, Stresa		Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees, Stresa
	Grand Hotel dei Castelli, Italian Riviera		Villa Aurea, Cortona
	Starhotel Splendid Venice, Venice

Disclaimer

Note
Tour prices are Land Only rates based on per person double occupancy. Please call for triple or child occupancy rates. Taxes and fees are additional for tours that feature a cruise; port taxes are not included in the prices shown. Some dates may feature various changes in hotels, sightseeing and inclusions. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking.