Grand Tour of Italy in Spring 2012 

We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar to Paris travelling in Standard Premier Class, with a light meal and drinks served on board. Tonight is free to explore this fascinating city - why not enjoy a cruise down the Seine to admire the twinkling lights of France's capital? On Day 2 we travel into the heart of Italy and its magnificent capital city, transferring to the Massimo D'Azeglio Hotel, our base for four nights. (Day 1-E; Day 2-B,D)

We enjoy a half-day guided tour of the ancient city today. Highlights include the Colosseum, the huge arena commissioned in 72AD, the incredibly well-preserved Roman Forum, and the theatrical Trevi Fountain. This afternoon you are free to savour the sights and sounds of Rome's seductive beauty at your own pace. (B,D)

You have the opportunity to explore this fascinating city at your own pace today or visit the superb St Peter's Basilica and the Vatican museums (payable locally). Alternatively, you may simply wish to stroll through Rome's atmospheric streets, ascend the monumental Spanish Steps or relax in one of Rome's many squares with a coffee or ice-cream and watch the world go by. (B)

Today's excursion by coach takes us into the hills beyond Rome, crossing the ancient Appian Way and wending our way through beautiful villages, including a visit to Palazzo Chigi di Ariccia, an austere and noble palace. We enjoy dinner tonight at Castelgandolfo, the Pope's summer retreat on Lake Albano. (B,D)

This morning we travel in First Class on the high-speed train to Renaissance Florence, regarded by many as Europe's artistic capital. We spend three nights at the Hotel Santa Maria Novella, a short walk from the city's historic attractions. This afternoon we enjoy a tour of the city with our local guide, visiting the spectacular Duomo with its distinctive orange-tiled dome and the unique Ponte Vecchio, or Old Bridge, constructed in 1345. Our tour ends at the Piazza Basilica di Santa Croce, which houses the tombs of Dante, Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Gallileo. Dinner tonight is in a typical Tuscan restaurant. (B,D)

Today you are free to discover Florence at your own pace. You may choose to travel further afield and explore one of the many excellent locations that are within easy reach by rail, including Bologna and Pisa or alternatively continue exploring the city's amazing museums and galleries. (B)

Our rail excursion today (Standard Class) takes us to the beautiful walled city of Lucca, one of the most perfectly preserved medieval towns in Europe. We enjoy a guided tour here and enjoy lunch in a typical Lucchese restaurant, followed by some free time. Take a stroll through the narrow winding streets of the Old Town or perhaps climb one of the bell-towers for lovely views over the jumbled maze of red-tiled roofs. (B,L)

On arrival, we walk to our hotel for three nights, the splendid Hotel Papadopoli, situated just steps from the Grand Canal and the station. There is time for you to start your exploration of Venice before dinner. (B,D)

We enjoy a half-day tour today to the very heart of Venice, St Mark's Square, which is dominated by the magnificent Basilica di San Marco and the venerable Palazzo Ducale, or Doge's Palace. This afternoon following our tour, why not soak up the atmosphere with a romantic gondola ride? For those who prefer a bird's-eye view, take the opportunity to climb the Campanile di San Marco, which offers incredible vistas over the buildings clustered around the centre, and shimmering lagoons further out. (B)

Today is at leisure to explore this beautiful city. Venice lends itself to idle wandering, and possibly the best way to enjoy its captivating charms is to let yourself get lost in the myriad of winding alleys and twisting lanes that make up the city centre. Alternatively, why not sail to the island of Murano, famous for its gorgeous glassware, or Burano, well-known for its lace-making industry? This evening we conclude with a farewell dinner in a traditional local restaurant in San Marco. (B,D)

After a free morning, we take the direct train to Turin, where we spend the night at the 4-star Hotel ATA Concord. On Day 13 we travel on by TGV to Paris, where we transfer by coach across the city. We continue on the Eurostar service to St Pancras International. (Day 12-B,D; Day 13-B,E)

E=Eurostar Meal, B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
These meals, where shown are included in the price of your holiday