Italian Riviera Holiday

• Coach travel including channel crossings
• Five nights hotel stay with evening meals and continental breakfast included
• Four overnight hotel stays with continental breakfast included 
• Excursions as outlined in itinerary, including lunch at Dolceaqua

The Italian Riviera - Monaco & The Ligurian Coast!

Say "arrivederci" to the UK as we head off on a ten-day holiday to the fabulous Italian Riviera!

Day One
Departing South Wales in the early hours of the morning, we head to the South East of England before taking a lunchtime ferry crossing over to Northern France. From here, it's a short drive to our first overnight stop in the charming city of Saint-Quentin. Staying centrally in the Ibis Saint-Quentin Basilique, your overnight stay includes breakfast only.

Day Two - Dijon 
Today we continue southwards, stopping off at the city of Dijon for a lunchtime break. The capital of Burgundy, Dijon, is a food lover's favourite with many local dishes served with the famous wine of the region, and of course, it's Dijon mustard! From here it's on to our next overnight stop in the city of Lyon. Here we'll be staying at the Ibis Lyon Centre Perrache hotel, and your stay here includes breakfast.

Day Three - Aix-en-Provence & Diano Marina
Italy, here we come!... but not before a lunchtime stop in the beautiful French town of Aix-en-Provence. Pastel coloured buildings and a medieval feel make this charming place all the more inviting, as do the many cafe bars and restaurants.

From here it's on to the fabulous Hotel Torino in Diano Maria for our five-night stay with evening meals and breakfast included. This four-star hotel enjoys a fantastic location in the centre of Diano Marina, a short walk from the town’s pedestrian area and only 150 metres from the beach, and the hotel's own facilities include a swimming pool, gym and wellness spa.

Day Four - Alassio
Time for us to start exploring this beautiful Ligurian region of the Riviera. Today we’ll take a spin along the coast, with a visit to the elegant resort of Alassio, a stunning coastal town lined with over four kilometres of sandy beach, not to mention its numerous shops, churches & piazza to explore as well. Making our way back to the hotel after lunchtime, so that you can spend the afternoon relaxing at the hotel, on the beach, or exploring the town of Diano Marina!

Day Five - Monaco and Monte Carlo
For those who would like to enjoy a long day out, today we'll take you to one of Europe’s smallest countries: Monaco.  Nestled in a cove along the coast close to the French/Italian border, it is the home of the rich and famous. We hope to offer a guided tour to explore the historic cliff-top Old Town, where you will discover the beautiful Exotic Garden, overlooking the sea, which is home to thousands of giant-sized cacti, thanks to the area’s exceptional climate, as well as many sculptures and works of art.

Monaco is also home to the Royal Palace and Cathedral, and many quaint streets far removed from the famous Casino and port.  You'll have a chance to enjoy some free time at the Casino Square or ‘Golden Square’ with prestigious shops, amazing restaurants and luxury cars! 

Day Six - San Remo and Dolceaqua
Our first stop of the day takes us along the coast road to the regional capital, San Remo. Known for its beautiful beaches, lively promenade, and picturesque harbour, it's a lovely place for a visit.

From San Remo, we head inland to the charming hilltop village of Dolceaqua. This lovely village exudes history at every corner, with its winding cobblestone streets, ancient stone buildings, and stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

This postcard-perfect destination offers a taste of authentic Italian village life. One of the most iconic landmarks in Dolceaqua is the medieval bridge, Ponte Vecchio, which spans the Nervia River and provides a breathtaking backdrop. While you're here, you might also like to explore the historic castle and the Chiesa di San Giorgio church. Additionally, you'll find quaint cafes and shops offering local products and cuisine. Our visit today will include a traditional Italian lunch at a nearby olive mill in the Dolceaqua valley, where you'll have to chance to enjoy a selection of local Ligurian specialities, local wine and finish off with Limoncello!

Day Seven - Free in Diano Marina
Relax and enjoy a day of leisure in Diano Marina! You might like to hit the beach, or take a stroll around the town and harbour. Or if you'd like to indulge in a real spot of relaxation, you could enjoy the facilities at the hotel, which include a swimming pool, spa and a panoramic jacuzzi on the top floor terrace!

Day Eight - Avignon 
After breakfast, it's time to head back through France, but not before a lunchtime stop at Avignon. Back in the 1300s, this Provençal town was the centre of the Roman Catholic world and, indeed, where the Pope once resided. Today, the remnants of this can be seen in some incredible ecclesiastical buildings, including the World Heritage Site of the Palais des Papes.

From here it's back to Lyon for our overnight stop, with breakfast included.

Day Nine - Troyes
After breakfast, we continue northwards and on to the small city of Troyes for our lunchtime break. Troyes is famed for producing a quarter of the country's champagne, and has an idyllic charm of its own. Narrow cobbled streets lead to some fabulous cafes and bars, ideal to refresh yourself before we continue on to Saint-Quentin for our overnight bed and breakfast stop.

Day Ten
Our holiday must sadly end as we return to Calais and cross back to the UK. Arriving back home late that evening.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• Valid Passports Required
• Overnight Accommodation (Stay) Tax on Non-Resident Stays – The Italian Government has given the ability for each municipality in Italy to decide if they wish to introduce a stay tax levied on tourists. This has been implemented sporadically throughout Italy, with each city determining its method of collection. The tax broadly ranges from €1 to €5 per person per night and is generally collected from each passenger on arrival. Due to the uncertain nature of the collection and the decision made by the municipalities, we wish to ensure that all passengers are made aware of this on booking to ensure that any tax can be paid upon arrival.