The Delights of Garda & Northern Italy 2011 

We fly from London to Milan, arriving mid-afternoon. On arrival we are transferred by coach to Desenzano, on the southern shores of Lake Garda. We stay here for seven nights at the 4-star Hotel Desenzano, ideally located in the heart of Desenzano. On Day 2 we travel to the mystical Isola del Garda. The lake's largest island, Isola del Garda is privately owned by the Borghese Cavazza family, who open up their early 20th century Neogothic Venetian villa to visitors. The villa stands in beautiful gardens, and we enjoy a tasting of local produce and wine. (Day 1-D; Day 2-B,D)

Today we travel by rail to Venice, the world's most famous floating city. We travel by boat along the Guidecca Canal to St Mark's Square, for a guided tour. We take in the breathtaking Basilica di San Marco and the triumphant Doge's Palace. Following the tour, your afternoon is free to explore Venice at your own pace. Day 4 is free for you to explore Lake Garda at your leisure. You could cruise to Malcesine, where you can visit the imposing 13th century Scaligero Castle. You can also take a cable car from here to Monte Baldo. (Day 3-B,D; Day 4-B)

We take a train to stylish Milan this morning, with a full day to explore. On arrival, we enjoy a guided tour of the city's main sights. We see the magnificent Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, an incredible 19th century glass-roofed shopping arcade. We also see the world-famous opera house 'Teatro alla Scala' and arguably the highlight of our tour, a visit to the famous church and cloister of Santa Maria delle Grazie, where we see Leonardo da Vinci's painting 'The Last Supper'. On Day 6 enjoy a day relaxing at the hotel, perhaps making use of its facilities. Alternatively, explore nearby Sirmione, bursting with Roman ruins and its 13th century castle. The views from the castle's battlements make the climb worthwhile. (Day 5-B,D; Day 6-B)

We travel by coach to the walled city of Verona, the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet. We enjoy a guided tour of the city and then have some free time. On our return we stop at a local wine cooperative in Valpolicella to enjoy home-made dishes and locally produced wine, in a rustic farmhouse. On Day 8 we transfer to the airport for our flight to London. (Day 7-B,D; Day 8-B)

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