30. NH EU Brochure by justgoholidays

European Holiday Collection

January – December 2026

Stay Longer For Less

Exclusive 4 weeks for the price of 3!

New Destinations

Introducing Switzerland, Croatia & Slovenia

Extended Itineraries

Slower pace so you can explore more

getaways

The hotel was really nice and the food excellent. All the excursions were well organised and very joyful. Will definitely be booking again in the near future.

”

- Beverley B, Trustpilot

Book with Confidence

as National Holidays are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday Group, overseen by The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited. This is a government approved consumer protection scheme. This ensures that in relation to the coach package holidays described in this brochure that a Bond, which may be called upon in the unlikely event of the members Insolvency, protects the clients’ monies. Clients are recommended to inspect the current membership certificate at our registered office or alternatively go to abtot. com/bch-abtot-members-directory/ or telephone 0207 065 5316 to confirm current membership. Your attention is also drawn to the Bonded Coach Holiday Group Trading Charter that will apply to these coach package holidays. All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays we offer are financially protected by the ATOL scheme (ATOL No. 10889). When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to atol. org.uk/ATOLCertificate Clients are recommended to inspect the current ATOL certificate at our registered office or alternatively go to caa.co.uk to confirm the current licence.

Details of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 can be found at The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 (legislation.gov.uk)

Hello!

I am proud to unveil our latest collection for Europe and beyond, which includes some brand-new destinations for 2026.

From a journey through Switzerland’s hidden gems and an exploration of the scenic Rhine to stays in medieval Spanish paradors, there is so much to look forward to next year.

For those seeking distant adventures, why not discover the golden sands of Sri Lanka, cruise through the glittering Seychelles or explore vibrant North and South Goa? Each offers distinct experiences, from bustling markets and sightseeing to a more serene atmosphere with pristine beaches.

As ever, we’ve listened to your valued feedback and have enhanced many of our popular tours to make sure they are even more hassle-free for you. The journey is now part of your holiday, with time in mustsee stopover towns and more along the way, plus overnight hotels chosen for their convenience and comfort. Turn to page 8 to find out what other new features are now included next year!

With plenty on offer, every adventure offers vivid scenery and unforgettable moments of wonder, whether you’re seeking stunning sunsets, timeless stories, delicious cuisine, historic cities or turquoise waters.

I hope you enjoy looking through these pages, find your perfect getaway and start counting down to an experience to treasure – there is certainly plenty to choose from!

With best wishes,

Helen Moylan Chief Customer Officer

Our promise to you for a joyful getaway

Let us whisk you away

We know the best spots for memorable holidays. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach escape, a sun-soaked city break or would like to immerse yourself in a new culture, we’ve got something for everyone.

Every detail brings joy

Convenient pickup points, nearby airports, trusted hotels, friendly coach drivers and local experts means you’ll be smiling all the way.

Making your money go further

Great value means including all the essentials and more in the price. Whatever your budget, know that you’re getting away for less with us.

Delivering through expertise

Our experts with decades of knowledge handpick all our hotels and excursions, so you experience nothing less than what we’d expect ourselves.

A memorable shared experience

Arrive as passengers and leave as friends on a National break, returning home with unforgettable memories of new experiences.

We’re all ears

Your valued feedback helps us make every trip even better than the last.

Always here for you

Whether online or over the phone, we’re always ready to help every step of the way.

Set,Just Go! Ready,

Exciting Destinations

Pre-book your coach seat or upgrade to a JG Explorer for extra space, entertainment and more (see page 6). Book it Get set All aboard

Weekend break or long-stay escape? We’ve got holidays for every taste and pace. Book online or call our friendly team for pickup points, flight options, travel tips and more.

On

the road (or in the air)

Whether you’re travelling by coach all the way or flying to meet it abroad, we make it easy. Enjoy convenient travel, scenic routes and en-route stops with our expert drivers, or touch down ready to explore.

We’ll email your travel details and itinerary so you can start the countdown. Then all you need to do is pack and get ready to make some unforgettable memories with old and new friends!

Check in

Hand-picked hotels equal comfort, welcome and great locations –named in advance or after booking, with full details online.

Meet us at your pickup point or fly from a choice of UK airports – we’ll handle your overseas transfers.

Explore

Go your own way or join our included excursions, designed to show you the very best of the region, from hidden gems to renowned hotspots. We’ll drop you off and pick you up from handy spots – discovering couldn’t be easier.

Travel in style

A smooth ride

Our experienced, friendly drivers make the miles fly by. From a warm welcome to a smooth, safe ride, they’re here to ensure your holiday starts the moment you step aboard.

Best seats on the road

Thedeluxe experiencetravel you deserve

Entertainment on the move

Stay entertained from start to finish with our wireless media system – offering films, quizzes and more. Connect with free, reliable Wi-Fi and keep devices charged with a USB port at every seat.

An elevated experience

Treat yourself to a premium front seat and enjoy an incredible panoramic view –perfect for spotting landmarks, wildlife and scenery as it unfolds. You’ll also benefit from extra legroom and a handy countertop.

Deluxe details

With just 44 seats on board, there’s space to really relax. Enjoy a reclining seat with a footrest, plus a floor-level toilet for convenience.

Turn your journey into part of the holiday with our deluxe JG Explorer coaches. Designed for comfort, convenience and a touch of indulgence, they offer improved legroom, on-board refreshments and entertainment, plus thoughtful little extras that make all the difference. the JG Explorer logo to see which European holidays include this deluxe way to travel. Look out for

Our JG Explorer coaches are more than just transport – they’re a relaxed, stylish way to travel that makes the journey every bit as enjoyable as the destination.

Treats on tap

From the first mile to the last, stay refreshed with our selection of drinks! All Explorer coaches are stocked with hot and cold drinks. Don’t forget to bring your water bottle to refill from the filtered water tap.

Yourstartsholidayhere!

Additional

leg room

Reclining seats

Floor-level toilet

Rear-mounted kitchen with hot & cold drinks

On-board entertainment with reliable Wi-Fi

“We excitedly stepped aboard and were immediately impressed by the spotless interiors... The seats are even comfier than I imagined!” - Beth M

New unmissable experiences this way!

We’ve listened to your valued feedback and have improved your next European experience as a result!

Savour the journey

4 Your luggage will be taken care of at your interchange location and your main destination hotels

4 Improved en-route hotels with easy access to local amenities

4 On longer durations, enjoy 2 overnight stays en-route to reduce the long drives and explore more

4 Discover hidden gems and famous spots featured on our en-route visits Love the experience

4 Relax more! Holidays have been extended to 10 and 14 days to allow for a memorable journey and a slower-paced holday

4 Every holiday is now accompanied by an experienced tour manager

4 Welcome drink, fruit and water in the room and porterage on most tours, at your main hotel

4 More guided tours and visits than ever before

4 See more with new locations across Europe with unique experiences and multi-destination tours

CRUISE ACROSS TURQUOISE WATERS TO ST TROPEZ

Enjoy the best of the French Riviera with a scenic cruise from St Maxime to glamorous St Tropez, known for its glittering waters, pastel-coloured buildings and yacht-filled harbour.

JOURNEY BACK IN TIME AT WORLD-FAMOUS POMPEII

Walking the ancient streets of Pompeii in the footsteps of gladiators, slaves and senators is an Italian must-do! With new discoveries being made, there is no better time to visit.

SEE VIOLIN MAESTRO ANDRÉ RIEU IN PRAGUE

Join us in beautiful Prague to see why the King of Waltz’s concerts are so magical, full of emotional ballads, witty showmanship, memorable surprises and dancing in the aisles!

DISCOVER GERMANY’S HARZ MOUNTAINS BY RAIL

Climb aboard the legendary Harz Brocken Railway, passing fairytale forests, valleys and more on the way to the summit of mystical Brocken, Harz’s highest peak.

EXPLORE CLAUDE MONET’S ICONIC GARDEN

Delve into the world of France’s most famous painter at Giverny, where vibrant flowerbeds, tranquil water lilies and the wisteria-draped bridges inspired his timeless master-pieces.

ENJOY A BBQ ON A PRISTINE SEYCHELLES’ BEACH

Step onto the unspoilt shores of Curieuse, an uninhabited granitic island in the Seychelles. Spot the amazing giant tortoises before enjoying a beach BBQ under the swaying trees!

Look out for this badge throughout the brochure for a deluxe holiday option! Enjoy deluxe coach travel aboard a JG Explorer coach (see page 6 for details) along with a memorable stay at a JG4 hotel, where facilities and service are of a higher standard.

WesternEurope

From Switzerland’s storybook towns to Germany’s majestic Harz Mountains, this year’s collection is packed with fresh discoveries. Ride the little trains of Belgium and the Rhine, wander through art-filled Paris and flower-strewn Giverny or relax by the breezy Belgian seaside. Whether it’s your first visit or a welcome return, these feel-good escapes celebrate the culture, charm and beauty of Europe’s most enchanting places.

Dutch Bulbfields & Amsterdam

Get ready for a short break with lasting memories as we journey to Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most captivating cities. Discover charming canals, cobbled streets and lively cafés that give this historic capital its unique character. Then, swap urban beauty for natural splendour with a visit to the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens. Here, over seven million bulbs bloom each spring, including more than 800 varieties of tulips, transforming the park into a dazzling sea of colour and fragrance – a truly unforgettable experience.

Keukenhof Gardens

We take a trip to the beautiful Keukenhof Gardens with their incredible floral displays and manicured parkland. Across the 32-acre extent of the world’s largest bulb flower park, visitors are treated to a spectacular display of colour with over seven million bulbs blooming in the spring including brightly-hued tulips, hyacinths and daffodils! After your visit, a stop on route for dinner at your arrangement awaits.

Dutch Bulbfields & Amsterdam .................................................... page 11

A Weekend in Amsterdam ............................................................ page 11

André Rieu - Live in his Hometown of Maastricht ........................ page 12

A Belgian Seaside Weekender NEW .......................................... page 13

Bruges, Ostend & the Last Post in Ypres ....................................... page 13

In Flanders’ Fields .......................................................................... page 14

Paris, Monet’s Garden & the Seine NEW .................................. page 14

The British D-Day Story - Normandy & Honfleur ......................... page 15

A Weekend by the Rhine NEW ................................................. page 15

Little Trains of Belgium with Brussels & Waterloo NEW ....... page 16

Impressions of Brittany NEW .................................................... page 17

Splendours of Alsace & Strasbourg NEW ................................. page 18

Germany’s Romantic Road, Munich & Lake Constance ................ page 19

A Journey through Germany’s Harz Mountains NEW .............. page 20

The Beautiful Black Forest ............................................................. page 22

Railways & Riverbanks: A Rhine Valley Discovery NEW .......... page 23

Timeless Austrian Tyrol - Lakes & Locomotives NEW .............. page 24

Hidden Gems of Switzerland NEW ........................................... page 25

A Weekend in Amsterdam

Enjoy

Keukenhof Gardens

ANDRÉ RIEU

Live in his Hometown of Maastricht

Departing 18th July 2026

Armed with his incredible 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, the King of Waltz is returning to Maastricht in summer 2026 for his now legendary hometown concert! Renowned for his spectacular extravaganzas like no other, André Rieu continues to mesmerise fans across the world with his mix of emotional ballads, iconic waltzes and witty showmanship. Come and discover what makes the violin maestro’s concerts so magical, live in the picturesque Vrijthof Square and set against the backdrop of Maastricht’s charming Old Town.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y 3 nights at a selected hotel in Belgium/ Germany/the Netherlands (JG3 or JG4 rating) with breakfast

y Ticket to André Rieu concert at Vrijthof Square, Maastricht (category 5)

y Excursion to Amsterdam/Brussels/Cologne (depending on your hotel location)

y Free time in Maastricht

A Belgian Seaside Weekender

Enjoy a weekend by the sea in De Panne, a fantastic seaside resort along Belgium’s expansive coastline. There is plenty to do near our centrally-located hotel, whether you’d like to stroll along the promenade to admire the historic dunes (the oldest in Europe!), feel the sand in your toes, go bargain hunting at the popular market, browse the fascinating museums and art galleries or simply make the most of the plethora of restaurants and bars on offer. Our optional excursion to the coastal resort of Ostend completes this lovely Belgian change of scenery!

Bruges, Ostend & the Last Post in Ypres

The highlights of Belgium await on this getaway, from the beautiful city of Bruges to the coastal town of Ostend. We also pay our respects in Ypres, the scene of a series of battles during the First World War where casualties are believed to have surpassed one million. During our visit we witness the city’s daily act of remembrance, The Last Post, played in honour of those who fell in the Ypres Salient from 1914-1918. At exactly 8pm every evening, the police stop traffic around the Menin Gate Memorial to let the buglers complete the world-famous fanfare; an incredibly moving experience that should be observed first-hand.

HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHT

Bruges & Ypres for the Last Post

This morning we visit Bruges, a beautifully-preserved medieval city of picturesque canals, and narrow cobbled lanes crammed with fine chocolate shops, lace boutiques and souvenir shops.

Our next stop is Ypres, the scene of one the biggest battles in the First World War. Having been completely rebuilt after the war, it serves as a place of pilgrimage and memorial; there are plenty of museums and monuments to pay your respects and find out more about the town’s historic role. One special highlight is listening to The Last Post, played every evening at 8pm at the Menin Gate in tribute to those who fell.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y 3 nights at the Hotel Horizon Ath-Lessines, Belgium (JG3+ rating) with breakfast y Excursions to Bruges, Ypres for The Last Post Ghent & Ostend

y En-route visit to Dunkirk

y Services of a tour manager

Hotel Horizon

Horizon Ath-Lessines is situated in the picturesque region of Ath-Lessines. With exquisite architecture and welcoming service, this hotel provides guests with comfort and elegance. All rooms are en-suite and come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, a safe and tea and coffee-making facilities.

accessibility information

visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details.

Menin Gate

De Panne

Maastricht Maastricht

In Flanders’ Fields

‘In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.’

Written by Lieutenant-Colonel

John McCrae,

In Flanders Fields is one of the most famous pieces of wartime writing and helped to establish the poppy as an emblem of remembrance.

On this break we journey to the Belgian and French battlefields immortalised in McCrae’s poem, which saw some of the most intense

fighting of the First World War and thousands upon thousands of casualties. Across Flanders Fields, cemeteries and memorials proudly honour those who fought for our freedom, laid to rest in eternal comradeship across the Ypres Salient, Arras and the Somme areas. We discover these symbols of commemoration over three informative days with a battlefield guide, learning stories of enduring bravery and sacrifice at key sites such as Tyne Cot Cemetery, Menin Gate Memorial (where The Last Post is played every evening), Vimy Ridge Memorial, Lochnager Crater, the preserved trenches at Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial Park and much more.

Paris, Monet’s Garden & the Seine

Step into a living canvas and discover the luminous landscapes that inspired Claude Monet.

This four-day escape explores the scenes that stirred the Impressionists, from riverside gardens to golden light dancing through the trees. We stay just outside Paris in charming Rueil Malmaison, a peaceful base with easy access to the capital. Enjoy time in Paris and at leisure to soak in the ambience, stroll and savour the poetic charm that once captivated Monet himself.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y 3 nights at the Hotel Horizon Ath-Lessines (JG4 rating) with breakfast

y Excursions to locations significant to Ypres, Passchendaele, Arras & Vimy Ridge

y En-route visit to the Somme

y Accompanied by an expert Battlefield guide on all visits

y Services of a tour manager

YOUR HOTEL

Hotel Horizon Ath-Lessines JG4

Hotel Horizon Ath-Lessines is situated in the picturesque region of Ath-Lessines. With exquisite architecture and welcoming service, this hotel provides guests with comfort and elegance. All rooms are en-suite and come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, a safe and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Hotel accessibility information

Please visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details.

Single supplement £100

The British D-Day Story

- Normandy & Honfleur

Step into one of modern history’s defining moments on this poignant journey through Normandy. With insight from a specialist Battlefield Guide, we explore key sites of the British and Commonwealth D-Day landings, including Pegasus Bridge and Sword and Gold Beaches, where stories of courage and sacrifice come vividly to life. A deeply moving highlight is the British Normandy Memorial, where over 22,000 names honour those who fell during the Battle of Normandy. Blending powerful history with peaceful coastal scenery, this thoughtfully designed tour offers a lasting tribute to the bravery that helped shape our world.

HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHT

Memorial & Normandy Beaches

Accompanied by our expert battlefield guide, we begin at Pegasus Bridge, renamed in honour of the British 6th Airborne Division and their emblem, the winged horse Pegasus.

Next, we visit the British Normandy Memorial, overlooking Gold Beach. Inaugurated on the 75th anniversary of D-Day, it honours over 22,000 servicemen and women under British command who lost their lives in the summer of 1944. We continue to the British and Commonwealth landing sites at Gold and Sword Beaches. Finally, we visit the D-Day Museum.

Please note: this excursion may not be suitable for those with walking difficulties

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y 3 nights at the Hotel Albert 1er, Rueil Malmaison (JG3+ rating) with breakfast

y Welcome drink

y Porterage

y Fruit & water in room on arrival

y Excursions to Monet’s Garden & Paris

y Seine River Cruise

y Free time in Rueil Malmaison

y Services of a tour manager

CAMERA-ALT Optional Guided City Tour of Paris (£25pp)

YOUR HOTEL

Albert 1er Rueil Malmaison JG3+

Hotel Albert 1er Rueil Malmaison is elegant and modern, located in the picturesque town of Rueil-Malmaison to the west of Paris.

Hotel accessibility information

Lift to all floors. Accessible entrance. Accessible rooms are available upon request.

Single supplement £200

HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHT

Monet’s Garden’s & Paris

We begin our day with a visit to Monet’s Gardens in Giverny, where vibrant flowerbeds, tranquil water lilies and the iconic Japanese bridge inspired the master’s timeless paintings. Wander through the beautifully maintained gardens and explore Monet’s charming house, filled with personal artefacts and artwork. After a leisurely morning, we return to the hotel for lunch and time to freshen up. Later, enjoy an excursion back into Paris, offering the chance to explore its famous sights, shop or simply soak in the city’s atmosphere.

walk away from the Drosselgasse. This hotel offers en-suite rooms with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a bar and restaurant. Hotel accessibility information

A Weekend by the Rhine

Let the timeless beauty of the Rhine Valley sweep you away on this enchanting weekend escape. Based in the storybook town of Rüdesheim am Rhein, we explore a landscape of riverside villages, vine-clad hills and fairytale views. There’s time to savour Rüdesheim’s charm at your own pace, from cobbled streets and quaint shops to cosy wine taverns and also enjoy a scenic tour, following the Rheinuferstraße to Koblenz, where the Rhine meets the Moselle. With picturesque surroundings and gentle exploration, this is the perfect way to enjoy a truly delightful weekend.

HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHT

Rhine Discovery

Enjoy a scenic journey along the Rheinuferstraße as we follow the east bank of the Rhine to Koblenz, where the Moselle meets the Rhine. Koblenz is a historic city with a rich heritage, offering

The

its

Monet’s Garden

Tyne Cot Cemetery

Little Trains of Belgium with Brussels & Waterloo

Discover the charm and heritage of Belgium on this beautifully balanced holiday based near Brussels. Enjoy a guided walking tour and panoramic coach ride through the capital, taking in highlights such as the Grand Place, elegant boulevards and a traditional Belgian waffle tasting. Trace the echoes of Europe’s past at the iconic Waterloo Battlefield, where empires rose and fell. Relax on two scenic journeys aboard the heritage railways of the Bocq and Meuse Valleys, offering peaceful views of rolling hills and riverside villages. With time to unwind and explore, this is a rewarding way to experience Belgium’s culture and landscapes.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry from Dover to Calais and journey onwards to our hotel in Brussels.

Day 2 – Brussels

We enjoy a full day exploring Belgium’s vibrant capital, beginning with a guided walking tour through the historic heart of Brussels. We then continue with a panoramic coach tour, taking in landmarks such as the National Basilica and the striking Atomium. Along the way, enjoy a traditional Belgian waffle tasting – a delicious taste of local culture! With time to explore at your own pace, discover museums, sample chocolate or simply soak up the city’s unique charm and cosmopolitan flair.

Day 3 – Day at Leisure

Enjoy a day of leisure, relaxing at the hotel or exploring the local sights in the picturesque region of Ath-Lessines.

Day 4 – Valley of de Bocq Train & Namur

We start the day with a lovely train ride along the old line of the Valley of de Bocq. The train cuts a path through tunnels and over viaducts, with plenty of quaint countryside to admire. After disembarking, we make our way to Namur, nestled at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers. This pretty medieval city is overlooked by a sprawling hilltop citadel, below which stands a picturesque Old Town and cobblestone lanes dotted with cafés, restaurants and shops.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y 6 nights at the Horizon Ath-Lessines (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Guided walking tour & panoramic coach tour of Brussels (includes Belgium Waffle tasting)

y Guided tour of Waterloo

y Journeys on the Valley De Bocq

& Meue Valley Railways

y Free time in Meuse

y Services of a tour manager

YOUR HOTEL

Hotel Horizon Ath-Lessines JG4

Hotel accessibility information

Please visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details. Single supplement £240

Day 5 – Waterloo

Today, we take part in a fully guided tour to explore the legendary Waterloo Battlefield, where the fate of Europe was decided on 18th June 1815 in one of history’s most iconic confrontations. This was the final defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte, where over 250,000 soldiers from across Europe clashed in a momentous struggle. Our visit begins at the Lion’s Mound, a striking memorial offering panoramic views over the battlefield, before entering the circular Panorama building to see the vast 19th-century painting that vividly captures the chaos and heroism of the day. We then delve deeper at the interactive museum, where immersive multimedia displays, a gripping 3D film, authentic uniforms, weaponry and detailed maps bring the story of Waterloo to life. Learn about the strategies, the soldiers on both sides and the broader political implications of the battle, which reshaped Europe’s future.

Day 6 – Steaming Through the Meuse Valley

Today, we enjoy a picturesque journey through the lush landscapes of the Meuse Valley aboard a historic steam train. As we wind along the scenic route, take in views of wooded hillsides, charming villages and the gently flowing Meuse River. This nostalgic ride offers a glimpse into Belgium’s rich railway heritage, with lovingly restored carriages and a traditional locomotive. There’s time to relax and enjoy the view – a delightful day of steam and scenery.

Day 7

After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and head to Calais for our return ferry home.

Impressions of Brittany

As one of the six Celtic nations, beautiful Brittany boasts a distinct character as well as stunning landscapes. Expect charming towns straight from the pages of a medieval fairytale too, with ancient ramparts, cobbled streets and half-timbered buildings aplenty. From our base in Saint-Brieuc, we visit a range of these historic gems, some of them recognised as a Petite Cité de Caractère, and discover the spectacular sights along the coastline. With so much included, say oui to this idyllic French escape!

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey & Saint Malo

We continue our journey to Saint-Brieuc, stopping en-route to visit the iconic Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey.

As one of the first treasures to be added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, it really is a must-see while in this region of France. Later, also enjoy lunch at your leisure in the walled city of Saint Malo before checking in to our hotel in Saint-Brieuc.

Day 3 – Quintessential Brittany

Today we explore some of the highlights of stunning Brittany, starting with Lamballe, full of half-timbered houses. The majestic 15th-century Maison du Bourreau with its eye-catching burgundy-coloured timbers is particularly beautiful, now home to the Mathurin Méheut Museum, dedicated to the works of the eminent Breton artist.

We continue to Moncontour, an enchanting medieval walled town and a recognised Petite Cité de Caractère. The charming squares, pretty gardens, defensive walls and ancient gates add to the atmosphere here, while Saint-Mathurin church is well worth a look.

Our last stop is Vannes on the southern coast of Brittany. Head to the vibrant harbour with its long walkway and medieval gate leading to the Old Town, admire the mix of architectural styles of the 16th-century Vannes Cathedral or browse the selection of charming shops here.

Day 4 – Côte d’Amour & Pink Granite Coast Travelling north, we spend some free time in the lovely seaside town of Saint-Quay-Portrieux. Take the chance to wander along the sea wall and why not enjoy a boat trip to the picturesque Isle of Bréhat?

All before sampling some fresh seafood in one of the local restaurants at your leisure!

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First night on a bed & breakfast basis in France

5 nights at the Campanile Saint-Brieuc Centre - Gare, Saint-Brieuc (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast (includes a Breton Specialities buffet farewell dinner)

y Welcome drink

y Porterage

y Fruit & water in room

y Excursion to Vannes, Lamballe & Moncontour

y Guided tour of the Côte d’Amour & Pink Granite Coast (Saint-Quay-Portrieux, Tréguier & the Sept-Iles Archipelago)

y En-route visits to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey & Saint Malo

y Services of a tour manager

CAMERA-ALT Optional excursion to Quimper & Concarneau (£39pp)

YOUR HOTEL

Campanile Saint-Brieuc Centre - Gare, Saint-Brieuc JG3

Located close to the centre of charming Saint-Brieuc in the heart of Brittany, this Campanile hotel is comfortable and convenient for our itinerary. You can expect a restaurant, lounge bar, sauna (at an extra cost) and modern en-suite bedrooms. Hotel accessibility information Lift. Accessible rooms are available upon request. Single supplement £250

Nestled along the Pink Granite Coast, our next stop of Tréguier is another listed Petite Cité de Caractère and a charming port town renowned for its medieval architecture, little squares, magnificent cathedral and vibrant arts scene.

Lastly, we head to Sept-Iles Archipelago, a group of seven unspoilt islands off the Brittany coast. As they are mostly uninhabited, the area is a haven for birdlife and offers a mix of serene beaches, salty marshes, expansive bogs and dense forests.

Day 5 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Quimper & Concarneau

We head to Quimper on our optional excursion, famous for its traditional faience pottery – don’t miss the local workshop or the museum to see over 2,000 pieces! Next is Concarneau, where the highlight is Ville Close (walled town), a fortified island with 14th-century ramparts. For a fascinating insight into the town’s seafaring past, head to Musée de la Pêche, or simply find a quiet spot to soak up the unique atmosphere of this little town!

Day 6 – Day at Leisure

Explore the local area, relax at the centrally-located hotel or head to a little café to enjoy a French treat – the choice is yours today!

Day 7 We check out of the hotel and head to Calais for our return ferry home.

Namur

Valley of de Bocq Train

Waterloo

Vannes

Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

Splendours of Alsace & Strasbourg

Experience all this enchanting region has to offer, from Alsace villages, where medieval architecture and lush vineyards coexist harmoniously, to the cobbled streets and neo-Gothic splendour of Strasbourg’s Obernai. We visit Bott Frères winery to savour renowned local wines, and there’s the chance to discover France’s ‘Little Venice’ in Colmar, an Old Town of serene canals.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in the Reims area on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Metz

We journey to our hotel in Klingenthal, stopping en-route in Metz. The Old Town is abundant with beautiful architecture and historical sites, and we have time to explore the stunning Gothic Metz Cathedral, stroll along the picturesque banks of the Moselle River and enjoy the vibrant local markets. Or sit back, take in the scenery and indulge in some delicious local cuisine.

Day 3 – Alsace Villages (Ribeauvillé & Riquewihr) & Bott Frères winery

The Alsace Villages of Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr are nestled among rolling vineyards and framed by the majestic Vosges Mountains. Ribeauvillé, with its cobblestone streets and houses adorned with blooming flowers, is a town steeped in history. Along Grand Rue, the main street, there’s the chance to explore quaint shops and sample local delicacies. Next, we venture to Riquewihr, one of the most beautiful villages in France. Hidden among its well-preserved architecture, discover courtyards, boutiques and cafes.

Later, we make a visit to Bott Frères, a family-owned winery that has been producing exceptional wines for generations. We enjoy a tour of the cellars, learn about the winemaking process and taste a selection of their finest wines, from crisp Rieslings to aromatic Gewürztraminers.

Day 4 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Colmar

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y Overnight stay on a bed & breakfast basis in the Reims area

y 5 nights at Hotel des Vosges, Klingenthal (JG3+ rating) with breakfast & dinner

y Welcome drink

y Porterage

y Fruit & water in room

y Excursions to Alsace Villages (Ribeauvillé & Riquewihr) & Obernai

y Visit to Bott Frères winery

y Free time in Klingenthal, Bas-Rhin

y En-route visit to Metz

y Services of a tour manager

CAMERA-ALT Optional excursion to Colmar (£29pp)

YOUR HOTEL

Hotel des Vosges, Klingenthal JG3+

Hotel des Vosges in Klingenthal has spacious rooms with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and air conditioning. The hotel features a restaurant that serves local and international cuisines, and there is a wellness centre offering spa treatments and a fitness room.

Hotel accessibility information

Please visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details.

Single supplement £240

Germany’s Romantic Road, Munich & Lake Constance

An area rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage and lively traditions, Germany’s southernmost state of Bavaria has plenty to offer visitors. Together we explore this charming region with a scenic tour of the Romantic Road, one of Germany’s oldest tourist routes, which combines picturesque medieval walled towns and half-timbered houses with idyllic scenery. We also discover Bavaria’s capital city, Munich, and Lindau, a charming old island town on the eastern shores of Lake Constance.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Baden-Baden

We visit Colmar, a scenic town dotted with colourful houses and beautiful architecture. Visit the well-preserved Old Town, often referred to as “Little Venice” due to its serene canals, or the bustling market square to enjoy local delicacies. There’s also the opportunity to visit the iconic St. Martin’s Church, a masterpiece of Gothic design. This afternoon, we spend time at a local wine seller and indulge in some tasting of specially selected regional wines, before returning to our hotel.

Day 5 – Obernai

Obernai is an enticing town, surrounded by beautiful landscape, with plenty of historic sites to discover and serene spots for relaxation. On our guided tour, we stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and admire the well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant floral displays. There’s also the iconic Belfry, a symbol of the town, with panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside.

Visit the neo-Gothic Church of Saints Peter and Paul, with its intricate stained glass windows and serene atmosphere and for a taste of local flavours, stop by a traditional Alsatian restaurant to enjoy specialities such as tarte flambée or choucroute garnie.

Day 6 – At leisure in Klingenthal, Bas-Rhin

Today, explore the charming village of Klingenthal at your own pace, and visit the local shops and cafes to enjoy traditional Alsatian treats. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets, take in the unique beauty of the surrounding nature. Find out more about historic sites of the village, such as the former knife-making factory, which is a testament to the village’s rich industrial heritage.

This evening, we enjoy our farewell dinner at the hotel, along with a special folklore show.

Day 7

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

Continue on to our hotel in Langenau, stopping en-route in the spa town of Baden-Baden.

Day 3 – Germany’s Romantic Road

We set off on a tour of the Romantic Road, one of the most well-travelled tourist routes in Germany.

We combine picture-book scenery and sweeping vistas with visits to the medieval walled towns of Rothenburg and Dinkelsbühl, which feature beautiful half-timbered buildings, cobbled streets and quaint alleyways.

Day 4 – Lindau in Lake Constance

Our destination is the town of Lindau, uniquely located on an island on the eastern side of Lake Constance and set against a stunning backdrop of mountains. Explore the historic structures, lively squares and picturesque alleyways of the Old Town, stroll along the lakeside promenade or head to the bustling harbour where the entrance is flanked by a Bavarian lion and lighthouse.

Day 5 – Munich

We visit Munich, the capital of Bavaria and one of Germany’s most attractive cities. Lying near the foot of the German Alps, the city is famous for its stunning architectural wonders, including the Frauenkirche, Munich’s largest church with its two dome-topped Gothic towers and the City Hall in the Marienplatz, a lively square in the heart of the city.

Return

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in Metz, France (last night with a light evening meal)

y 4 nights at the Hotel Jägerhaus, Langenau (JG3 rating):

y Dinner & breakfast

y Packed lunches

y 5 free drinks per night (beer, house wine, soft drinks,

Hotel Jägerhaus, Langenau JG3

The Hotel Jägerhaus is located in the centre of the town of Langenau. The hotel has been run by generations of the same family for more than 100 years and offers en-suite rooms with satellite TV, a bar, lounge and restaurant.

Hotel accessibility information Lift to all floors. Accessible

Hotel des Vosges, Klingenthal

Ribeauvillé

Obernai

Rothenburg

Alsace

A Journey through Germany’s Harz Mountains

Step back in time and soak up the charm of central Germany on this enchanting holiday through the Harz Mountains. Enjoy scenic excursions to the colourful town of Wernigerode and the dramatic landscapes of the Harz National Park. A highlight is a nostalgic journey aboard the Harz Brocken Railway, a steam-hauled ride to the summit of the legendary Brocken. Along the way, explore the historic towns of Goslar and Cologne at your own pace. With fairytale scenery and timeless traditions, this is Germany at its most atmospheric.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry from Dover to Calais and journey onwards for our overnight stay in Maastricht.

Day 2 – En-route stop & arrival

After breakfast, we continue to our hotel in Goslar or Quedlinburg, stopping en-route for lunch at your leisure in either Kassel or Hannover.

Day 3 – Wernigerode

Today, we explore the colourful town of Wernigerode, known for its half-timbered houses, charming market square and fairytale streets set against the dramatic Harz Mountains. We begin with a guided walking tour through the Old Town, uncovering its medieval charm and vibrant history. Later, we transfer to Wernigerode Castle, perched high above the town, where we enjoy time to explore its opulent interiors and panoramic views. After lunch, we take a scenic ride on the delightful castle railway.

Journey aboard the legendary Harz Brocken Railway, winding through the

Day 4 – Quedlinburg

After breakfast, we set out on a delightful walking tour of Quedlinburg, a beautifully preserved medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling along cobbled lanes lined with over 1,300 half-timbered houses, we discover a town steeped in charm and history. Admire the quaint squares, picturesque architecture and romantic alleyways, all set beneath the watchful gaze of the Romanesque Collegiate Church perched on the hill. With every corner offering a postcard-perfect view, Quedlinburg is a joy to explore on foot.

Day 5 – The Harz / Brocken Railway

A true highlight of our holiday is a journey aboard the legendaryjourney aboard the legendary Harz Brocken Railway, winding through the scenic beauty of the Harz Mountains. Pulled by a historic steam locomotive, the train climbs steadily from Wernigerode, passing dense forests, peaceful valleys and dramatic rock formations on its way to the mystical Brocken – the highest peak in northern Germany. With the rhythmic chug of the engine and breathtaking views at every turn, this magical ride is unforgettable. At the summit, enjoy panoramic vistas over Harz National Park, visit the summit’s visitor centre, savour regional dishes at the mountain inn, or take a gentle stroll. A nostalgic and enchanting slice of German railway heritage.

Day 6 – Goslar & Cologne

This morning, we check out of our hotel and begin our journey to Cologne, pausing en-route to explore the charming town of Goslar. Nestled on the edge of the Harz Mountains, this beautifully preserved medieval gem is known for its cobbled streets, colourful half-timbered houses and impressive Romanesque cathedral. Later in Cologne, we enjoy a farewell dinner in Cologne at a local Brauhaus.

Day 7

We stop en-route for lunch at leisure before we continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

from the Old Town’s charming market square and imperial palace. Combining traditional architecture with modern comfort, the hotel offers en-suite rooms with satellite TV, free Wi-Fi and stylish furnishings. Other facilities include a wellness area with a sauna and pool and a renowned restaurant serving regional and international cuisine. Hotel accessibility information Lift to all floors. Accessible entrance.

Best Western Hotel Schlossmühle

Harz Brocken Railway

Wernigerode Castle Best Western Hotel Achtermann

Mountains

Wernigerode

Harz Mountains

The Beautiful Black Forest

The Black Forest is renowned for its dark green coniferous trees, half-timbered houses and rushing waterfalls. This breathtaking region must be seen to be believed; a landscape so astounding and inspiring, it’s no wonder the Black Forest is one of the most picturesque regions to visit in Germany! Our tour takes us into the very heart of the Black Forest to fairytale-like villages nestled amongst the mountainside and elegant German towns, such as Baden-Baden and Freiburg.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1 Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Luxembourg City

We continue our journey and stay in Metz this evening, stopping in Luxembourg City along the way. The picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Old Town is a highlight, jam-packed with cobbled streets, charming squares and monuments.

Day 3 – En-route stop in Strasbourg & Colmar

We continue on to our hotel in Oberharmersbach, stopping en-route in the cities of Strasbourg and Colmar. Strasbourg is a picturesque city of beautiful architecture, with its unique blend of French and German influences contributing to its vibrant cultural scene. We explore here before making our way to Colmar, where we stop to enjoy lunch. (not included)

Day 4 – Scenic tour of the Black Forest (Rottweil & Triberg)

We tour the hauntingly beautiful Black Forest, steeped in centuries of German history.

Our journey begins in Rottweil, the oldest town in Baden-Württemberg. The dog breed, Rottweiler, is descended from drover dogs left by the Roman Legion here. The town boasts an attractive Old Town of towers, churches and fountains and its medieval centre has changed little since the 16th century.

Heidelberg

GERMANY

Baden-Baden

Freudenstadt Gengenbach Oberharmersbach

Rottweil Triberg

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

AUSTRIA

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (JG3 rating) (last night with light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward journey on a half-board basis in France (JG3 rating)

y 6 nights at the Bären hotel, Oberharmersbach (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Welcome drink

y Entertainment one evening

y Fruit and Water in room on arrival

y Scenic tour of the Black Forest (Rottweil & Triberg) & visit to the Black Forest Museum

y Excursions to Baden-Baden, Freudenstadt, Schiltach & Gengenbach

y En-route visits to Luxembourg, Strasbourg, Colmar & Heidelberg

y Free time in Oberharmersbach

y Porterage at Resort hotel

y Services of a tour manager

CAMERA-ALT Optional excursion to Freiburg & Lake Titisee (£19pp)

YOUR HOTEL

Bären hotel, Oberharmersbach JG3

We then continue to Triberg in the heart of the Black Forest, known for its Black Forest gâteau and iconic cuckoo clocks. Triberg is the birthplace of the original Black Forest Cherry cake recipe, home to the world’s largest cuckoo clock and Germany’s highest waterfall, plunging 163 metres through the forest.

Day 5 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Freiburg & Lake Titisee

Our optional excursion takes us to Titisee, one of the largest lakes in the region. Here, we can admire the crystal-clear glacial waters and take pleasure in the beautiful scenery along the lakeshore. Additionally, we can explore numerous small stores offering handmade products and local food delicacies. After spending time at Lake Titisee, we head to the charming medieval town of Freiburg. You’d be forgiven if you think you’ve stepped into a fairytale – a city full of beautiful, cobbled squares, colourfully painted houses, red terracotta roofs and the famous Münsterplatz, a square in the heart of the city, home to Freiburg’s famous food market and the Historisches Kaufhaus, or Merchant’s Hall. Towering above the square is the grand cathedral, the 11th-century Freiburger Münster.

Day 6 – Day at leisure

Day 7 – Baden-Baden & Freudenstadt

We visit the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden, nestled on the edge of the enchanting Black Forest. Built on thermal springs, it has been a luxurious retreat for centuries, with fairytale charm and timeless elegance. Next, we travel to Freudenstadt along the famous Black Forest High Road, also known as the B500, one of the most scenic forest routes in the world, often featured in films and advertisements.

Railways & Riverbanks: A Rhine Valley Discovery

If you like the idea of soaking up beautiful scenery on relaxing railway journeys through the mountains of Europe, then this is the break for you! Just one highlight of our wonderful itinerary is a journey aboard the narrow-gauge Vulkan Express through the stunning landscapes that border Germany and Belgium. From the spectacular Eifel Mountains to the Rhine Valley, you can expect a glorious combination of fairytale forests, towering peaks and rolling vineyards on this delightful getaway which also includes a lovely cruise along the Rhine.

Rhein (JG3

Excursions to Boppard & Cochem y Guided tour of Heidelberg (includes entrance to the castle) y Rail journeys on the

Hotel Bären is a historic hotel located in the heart of the city. Known for its warm hospitality and traditional architecture, the hotel offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a comfortable room and a delicious on-site restaurant.

Hotel accessibility information Please visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details.

Single supplement £180

Freudenstadt itself is a renowned destination for rest and relaxation, once enjoyed by famous figures such as American writer Mark Twain.

Day 8 – Schiltach & Gengenbach

Today we travel to Schiltach in the very heart of the Black Forest. This lovely destination is full of half-timbered houses, straight out of a story book. The town centre, or ‘Städtle’, offers a chance to see how this small town looked centuries in the past. Later, we travel to our second stop of the day, the pretty town of Gengenbach. Wander along the river or through the old town, which boasts romantic half-timbered houses, and charming winding streets.

Day 9 – Heidelberg

We head to the beautiful town of Heidelberg. Built on the banks of the River Neckar, the city is surrounded by lush green hills and boasts a castle and Baroque-style Old Town full of grand and beautifully-preserved buildings. We then continue to our overnight hotel in France, with a light evening meal included.

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1 Ferry to Calais and on to our hotel in the Rhine area.

Day 2 – Hunsrück Mountain Railway

Our first train journey awaits on the renowned Hunsrück Mountain Railway. Our route takes us across the verdant landscapes of the Rhine valley, winding our way through the forests and over the steep hills of Boppard for some spectacular views of this unspoilt region’s natural beauty.

Day 3 – Boppard & River Rhine Cruise

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive through the magnificent Rhine Valley to the German town of Boppard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Rhine Gorge and home to pristine, fairytale-like buildings. There’s time to explore the town before enjoying even more stunning landscapes on a memorable Rhine cruise. We meander down the river, past terraced vineyards and charming villages to St. Goar, home to the impressive Rheinfels Castle.

Day 4 – Day at Leisure

Take the chance to relax at the hotel or explore the local sights of Rüdesheim am Rhein. Celebrated for its winemaking, there’s plenty to discover! Head to Drosselgasse, a famous alleyway lined with traditional taverns and restaurants, for a taste of local cuisine and music, take the cable car up to Niederwald Monument for breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley and be sure to sample some of the region’s famous Rieslings.

Day 5 – Vulkan Express Train & Cochem

We travel to Engeln for our railway journey on the Volcano (Vulkan) Express, a narrow-gauge railway that takes us up into the beautiful Eifel Mountains and on to Brohl-Lützing, offering some spectacular photo opportunities along the way.

We also spend time in charming Cochem. Surrounded by steep vineyards, this lovely town of half-timbered houses and winding streets also boasts a flower-bedecked promenade and a magnificent castle that rises dramatically above the town.

Day 6 – Heidelberg

Today we head to the beautiful town of Heidelberg, accompanied by a guide. Built on the banks of the River Neckar, the city is surrounded by lush green hills and boasts a castle and Baroque-style Old Town full of grand and beautifully-preserved buildings.

We include entrance to the mighty fortress, perched high above the city, where we tour the inner courtyard, pretty garden, residence ruins and the famous giant barrel. Afterwards, we take a trip on the Heidelberger Bergbahn, a historic funicular railway which connects the city to Königstuhl mountain. Sit back and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the Neckar and beyond, before exploring more of Heidelberg at your leisure.

This evening, we enjoy a farewell dinner together at the hotel.

Day 7

Rheinstein Hotel, Rüdesheim am Rhein JG3 Nestled on the banks of the Rhine, the Rheinstein Hotel enjoys a central location Rhine promenade, just a short walk away from the Drosselgasse. This hotel offers en-suite rooms with a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a bar and restaurant.

Hotel accessibility

Rheinstein hotel is nestled on the

Triberg

Freudenstadt

FRANCA Heidelberg Boppard St. Goar

Brohl-Lützing Cochem

Hunsrück Mountain Railway

Timeless Tyrol - Lakes & Locomotives

The snow-dusted peaks, flower-filled meadows and beautiful towns of the Tyrol await on this wonderful all-inclusive break, featuring a scenic cruise on Lake Achensee and a trip on the Ziller Valley Steam Train, surrounded by beautiful rugged mountains.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1 Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in Maastricht on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Koblenz

Travel onwards to our overnight hotel in Germany, stopping en-route in Koblenz. Situated at the confluence of the Mosel and the Rhine Rivers and the Rhineland Valley, this charming town is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There’s time to explore before meandering through the pretty Rhineland Valley itself.

Day 3 – Munich

We continue to Munich, the capital of Bavaria and one of Germany’s most attractive cities. Lying near the foot of the German Alps, look out for its stunning architectural wonders, including the Frauenkirche, Munich’s largest church with its two dome-topped Gothic towers, and the City Hall in the Marienplatz, a lively square in the heart of the city. Enjoy lunch at your leisure here before we make our way to Hotel Stangl in Thaur, where we stay for the next six nights.

Day 4 – Krimml Waterfalls & Kitzbühel

Today we discover the natural beauty of the Austrian Tyrol as we tour some of the most picturesque parts of the region, including the stunning Krimml Waterfalls, the highest falls in Austria, and Kitzbühel, an attractive medieval town of pastel-painted houses and cobbled streets. We return to the hotel via Westerndorf and Wörgl to admire even more of Austria’s quaint gems.

Day 5 – Lake Achensee Cruise & Rattenberg

Today we relax on our panoramic Lake Achensee cruise, set against the imposing backdrop of the Karwendel Mountains, and take in the beautiful scenery from a different perspective. Often referred to as the Fjord of the Alps, this is the largest lake in the Tyrol, stretching for over 9 kilometres in length, and its famously turquoise hue makes for a memorable experience. Afterwards, we continue on to Rattenberg, the smallest town in Austria. Built in the shadow of Rat Mountain, the town has a long history of glass-blowing plus a picturesque well-preserved medieval centre and rows of brightly-painted townhouses. Take the chance to visit the magical world of glass - the famous Kissling Glass factory and show room, where you can watch glass blowers, engravers and painters at work.

Day 6 – Day at leisure

Take the chance to explore the local area or relax at the hotel, soaking up the Alpine atmosphere.

Day 7 – Ziller Valley Steam Train

We make for the Zillertal Railway, where we board a nostalgic steam train and enjoy a memorable journey taking in the beautiful Zillertal Valley. We travel between the towns of Mayrhofen and Jenbach, with the area characterised by stunning rugged mountains, lush green meadows, quaint villages and majestic alpine peaks.

Please note: the railway reserves the right to substitute the steam locomotive with an alternative diesel-powered or electric locomotive without notice or refund.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in the Netherlands/France (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward journey on a half-board basis in Germany

y 6 nights all-inclusive at the Hotel Stangl, Thaur (JG3 rating):

y Welcome drink

y Dinner & breakfast

y Packed lunches

y Free bar (10am-10pm) on house wine, beer, soft drinks, tea & coffee

y Excursions to Krimml Waterfalls, Kitzbühel & Rattenberg

y Cruise on Lake Achensee

y Journey on the Ziller Valley Steam Train

y En-route visits to Koblenz, the Rhineland Valley, Munich & Reims

y Services of a tour manager

CAMERA-ALT Optional excursion to Innsbruck & Swarovski Crystal (£29pp)

YOUR HOTEL

Hotel Stangl, Thaur JG3

Surrounded by picturesque scenery, the family-run Stangl Hotel is located in the centre of Thaur, a pretty village close to Innsbruck. Amenities include a traditional restaurant, sun terrace, sauna, whirlpool and en-suite bedrooms with free Wi-Fi.

Hotel accessibility information Accessible rooms available.

Single supplement £220

Day 8 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Innsbruck & Swarovski Crystal Worlds

On our optional excursion we spend time in the beautiful city of Innsbruck with its magnificent backdrop of snow-capped peaks. There is plenty to see around the city, including the Old Town and the Golden Roof, built for Emperor Maximilian as a royal box from which to view tournaments in the square below. Next, we head to Swarovski Crystal Worlds, created by Austrian artist André Heller and opened in 1995 to mark the company’s hundredth anniversary. From the magical Chambers of Wonder to the unique gardens, there is plenty to discover, and don’t forget to pick up a souvenir in the shop!

Day 9 Travel to our overnight hotel in France, with a light evening meal included.

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

Hidden Gems of Switzerland

Join us as we uncover Switzerland’s lesser-known marvels and enchanting gems, hidden away from bustling paths, on this seven-day escape. From the tranquil shores of Lake Constance to the charming streets of Winterthur, the exquisite beauty of the Rhine Falls to the intricate architecture of the Abbey District, our time here is filled with natural splendour, historical wonders and an insight into the unique culture of this country.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry from Dover to Calais and journey onwards for our overnight stay in the Reims area.

Day 2 – Guided city tour of Winterthur

Today we explore Winterthur, which offers a blend of history, culture and peaceful green areas. Discover the iconic Stadthaus, an architectural masterpiece that serves as the city’s town hall and the picturesque Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets are lined with medieval buildings and charming boutiques.

Take a stroll among beautifully maintained rose bushes in the Rosengarten or indulge in the culinary delights of traditional Swiss dishes and international flavours. Our guided city tour allows us to find out more about the city’s rich heritage.

This evening we enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel.

Day 3 – Rhine Falls by train

The Rhine Falls, near the town of Schaffhausen in northern Switzerland, is the largest waterfall in Europe. Travelling by train, we enjoy the exquisite beauty of the Swiss landscape, passing picturesque countryside, quaint villages, and lush forests.

We begin with a relaxing morning in Schaffhausen, including a visit to the IWC watchmaking museum to learn about the history of one of German-speaking Switzerland’s largest watchmakers. After lunch, we walk along the Rhine to nearby Neuhausen, a charming town offering stunning views and easy access to the famous falls.

Day 4 – Appenzell & Mount Hoher Kasten

We journey by coach to Brülisau, then take a cable car to Mount Hoher Kasten, a peak in the Alpstein range. At the summit, we enjoy panoramic views and geological wonders from a rotating restaurant over a hot drink. We then continue to Appenzell for lunch. This afternoon’s guided tour reveals Appenzell’s authentic Swiss charm - painted wooden houses, traditional architecture, and shops selling local treats like Appenzeller cheese. We round off the day with a visit to a local brewery for a tasting. This evening, guests may choose to dine at the hotel or in Winterthur’s Old Town (not included).

Day 5 – UNESCO World Heritage Abbey District, St Gallen & Lake Constance

This morning, we journey to St. Gallen and explore the Old Town and UNESCO-listed Abbey District, where we’re immersed in medieval charm and the intricate details of the grand library and interiors that echo centuries of history. There’s also time to discover other aspects of St. Gallen. After lunch in town, we take a short journey to the shores of Lake Constance, stopping in the cosy town of Arbon. Here, we stroll past traditional houses along the peaceful lakefront and admire the views stretching

Krimml Waterfalls

Adriatic Sea

Lake Achensee

Ziller Valley Steam Train

Central Europe Where beautyhistory, and culture meet at every turn.

From the fairytale rooftops of Prague to the imperial elegance of Vienna and Budapest, every city square and castle brims with old-world charm. Travel solo and carefree in the Czech capital or journey further on a scenic route from Prague to Ostrava. Whether you’re swept up in the music of André Rieu or drifting along the Danube, these unforgettable escapes promise a rich blend of - William

Prague to Ostrava - across the Heart of Czechia

Our journey takes us to Prague and Ostrava, historical cities of Czechia, as we wander the grand interior of Prague Castle, take a panoramic coach tour of Dresden, visit the glorious Rhine valley, enjoy a guided city tour of Ostrava and more.

Day 1 Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in Germany on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – Rüdesheim am Rhein & the Rhine Valley

We make our way to our hotel in the Nuremberg area for our overnight stay, with an en-route stop in the picturesque town of Rüdesheim am Rhein. Wander the charming streets and enjoy some lunch at your leisure before travelling down the Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site of beautiful landscapes, vineyards and breathtaking views of the river winding through the hills.

Day 3 – Plzeň

This morning, we make our way to Hotel Residence Emmy in Prague, stopping en-route in Plzeň, the birthplace of Pilsner beer. Explore the Old Town of pastel-coloured townhouses and grand squares, and visit St. Bartholomew’s Gothic Cathedral. There’s time to stop for lunch at your leisure before continuing with our journey.

Day 4 – Prague - Castle & Old Town

We explore Prague this morning, one of Europe’s most impressive capitals, thanks to its grand squares, imposing Charles Bridge, Old Town, charming Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square and Prague Castle, perched high above the city and reckoned to be the largest ancient castle in the world. The castle is a magnificent complex that has served as the seat of power for Czech kings, emperors and presidents. We enjoy entrance to the castle, its interior rich in art and historic artefacts.

Day 5 – Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary, also known as Carlsbad, is famous for its hot springs and architectural marvels, including elegant colonnades and beautifully landscaped parks. Enjoy a stroll along the Teplá River, explore

the historic town centre, or simply unwind in this serene environment. We stop here for an included lunch and then travel onwards to the hotel.

Day 6 – Brno & Ostrava

We make our way to Ostrava, with an en-route stop at Brno. Czechia’s ‘second city,’ Brno is a lively spot, with beautiful Art Nouveau villas, playful statues and quirky sculptures, with St. James Square full of trendy bistros, making it an ideal stop for lunch. In Ostrava, there is plenty to explore, and we find out more about the sites of this region on our guided tour.

Day 7 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Roznov Pod Radhostem & Olomouc

Our optional excursion takes us to the town of Roznov Pod Radhostem, nestled in the picturesque Beskydy Mountains and to Olomouc, a city with a wealth of historic buildings, including the UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column and the impressive St. Wenceslas Cathedral. We explore cobblestone streets and experience the lively atmosphere of the main square, before heading back to the hotel to enjoy a farewell dinner together.

Day 8 – Dresden

During our panoramic coach tour of Dresden, we explore the architectural beauty of the city and learn more about its history. The tour takes us through the city’s vibrant streets, allowing us to admire the stunning Baroque and Renaissance buildings. Key highlights include the iconic Frauenkirche, the Semper Opera House and the Zwinger Palace.

Day 9 – Kassel

On our way to the Dortmund area, we make an en-route stop in Kassel for lunch (not included). With plenty of dining options, we experience the culinary delights of the local cuisine before continuing on our journey.

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home. Brno

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis

(JG3 rating) in Germany (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward and return journey on a half-board basis

(JG3 rating) in Germany

y 3 nights at Hotel Residence Emmy, Prague (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y 2 nights at the Imperial Hotel, Ostrava (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Overnight stay in Dresden (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Welcome drink

y Wine, lager or soft drink with dinner

y Porterage

y Fruit & water in room on arrival

y Farewell dinner

y Guided city tour of Ostrava

y Excursion to Prague & Prague Castle

y Panoramic coach tour of Dresden

y Free time in Karlovy Vary

y En-route visits to Rudesheim & the Rhine valley, Plzeň, Brno & Kassel

y Services of a tour manager

CAMERA-ALT Optional excursion to Rožnov pod Radhoštěm & Olomouc (£29pp)

YOUR HOTELS

Hotel Residence Emmy, Prague JG4

Hotel Residence Emmy is situated in a prime location, allowing guests to easily explore the nearby attractions of Prague. The hotel features beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each designed with comfort and style in mind.

Imperial Hotel, Ostrava JG4

The Imperial Hotel, located in the heart of Ostrava, is known for its luxurious interiors and exceptional service. It offers a variety of amenities, including a bar and restaurant for fine dining.

Hotel accessibility information

Please visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details.

Single supplement £350

André Rieu in Prague

Armed with his incredible 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, the King of Waltz is bringing a new show to Prague in spring 2026! Renowned for his spectacular extravaganzas like no other, André Rieu continues to mesmerise fans across the world with his mix of emotional ballads, iconic waltzes and witty showmanship. Come and discover what makes the violin maestro’s concerts so magical, combined with a lovely itinerary in the Czech capital, with its beautiful architecture, medieval bridges and atmospheric squares. Discover castles that witnessed the rise and fall of several dynasties, enjoy a lunch cruise along the River Vltava and more on this unforgettable holiday!

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in Cologne on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – Rüdesheim am Rhein & the Rhine Valley

Day 3 – Plzeň & Prague

Day 4 – Prague Castle & André Rieu Concert

After breakfast, we head to Prague Castle, perched high above the city and reckoned to be the largest ancient castle in the world. The fortress is a magnificent complex that has served as the seat of power for Czech kings, emperors and presidents, with an interior rich in art and historic artefacts.

This afternoon, we have an early dinner before making our way to the O2 Arena Prague for the spectacular André Rieu concert. The violin maestro will perform his most celebrated waltzes, along with other spellbinding classical music, plus a surprise or two! After the show, we rejoin the coach and return to the hotel.

Day 5 – Vyšehrad and Vltava River Cruise

This morning we visit Vyšehrad, a historic fortress in the heart of Prague which dates back to the 10th century and once served as a seat of power for Czech rulers. With its scenic parks, lovely skyline views and labyrinth of narrow streets, the complex is perfect for a leisurely stroll. We take in the beautiful Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, the tranquil gardens and the Vyšehrad Cemetery, where many famous Czech figures are buried.

Next, we take to the water and meander down the Vltava River on a relaxing lunch cruise, admiring Prague and its famous monuments from a different perspective.

After an exciting day, we enjoy a farewell dinner together at the hotel this evening.

CZECHIA Plzeň

Karlovy Vary

André Rieu

CZECHIA

Discovering Prague - Going Solo

With Gothic architecture and natural beauty, the intriguing city of Prague is a must-see destination and a cradle of Czech culture. We wander cobblestone streets, marvel at the Rhine valley and savour local delicacies, as we experience the region’s blend of old-world charm, modern vibrancy and exquisite greenery.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in Germany on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – Rüdesheim am Rhein & the Rhine Valley

Day 3 – Plzeň

We stop en-route in Plzeň, the birthplace of Pilsner beer. Explore the Old Town of pastel-coloured townhouses and grand squares, and visit St. Bartholomew’s Gothic Cathedral. There’s time to stop for lunch at your leisure before continuing with our journey.

Day 4 – Kutná Hora

We venture to Kutná Hora, a city east of Prague, well known for the Gothic St Barbara’s Church.

Kutná Hora is also famous for the Sedlec Ossuary, a small chapel decorated with human bones, which attracts visitors from around the world. The city’s rich history as a former silver mining centre is evident in its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming streets.

Day 5 – Day at leisure

Nelahozeves

Day 6 – Nelahozeves Castle and Dvořák

Nelahozeves Castle is a magnificent Renaissance fortress located in the picturesque village of Nelahozeves. The castle is closely associated with the famous Czech composer Antonín Dvořák, who was born in the village in 1841, and the Dvořák Museum within the castle showcases his life and work. We explore well-preserved rooms, art collections and the beautiful gardens here.

Day 7 – Vyšehrad and Vltava River Cruise

Next, we take to the water and meander down the Vltava River on a relaxing buffet lunch cruise, admiring Prague and its famous monuments from a different perspective.

After an exciting day, we enjoy a farewell dinner together at the hotel this evening.

Day 8 – Dresden

We check out of our hotel in Prague and make our way to Dresden, where we stay overnight. During our guided panoramic coach tour, we explore the architectural beauty of the capital of Saxony and learn more about its history. The tour takes us through the city’s streets, allowing us to admire the stunning Baroque and Renaissance buildings. Key highlights include the iconic Frauenkirche, the Semper Opera House and the Zwinger Palace.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis

(JG3 rating) in Germany (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward and return journey on a half-board basis

(JG3 rating) in Germany

y 5 nights at Duo Hotel, Prague (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Overnight stay in Dresden (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Welcome drink

y Wine, lager or soft drink with dinner

y Porterage

y Fruit & water in room on arrival

y Farewell dinner

y Excursions to Kutná Hora, Vyšehrad, Nelahozeves Castle & Dvořák

y Panoramic coach tour of Dresden

y Vltava River cruise

y En-route visits to Rudesheim & the Rhine valley, Plzeň & Hanover Dresden

y Services of a tour manager

YOUR HOTEL

Duo Hotel, Prague JG4

The Hotel Duo offers elegantly furnished rooms and amenities include the Food & Mood restaurant, for a unique culinary experience, the Lobby bar, a spacious garden, and a gym.

Hotel accessibility information

Please visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details.

Day 9 – Hanover

We stop en-route in Hanover and explore the city. Hanover is known for its pretty gardens and historic landmarks, such as the Herrenhausen Gardens, with its baroque style and impressive fountains.

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

Imperial Cities - Prague, Vienna & Budapest

This fantastic break combines three of Europe’s finest capital cities – Prague, Vienna and Budapest. These beautiful cities boast fascinating histories and cultures, with each having its own distinct personality which we explore on our guided city tours.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1 Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in the Cologne area on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – Rüdesheim am Rhein & the Rhine Valley

Day 3 – Plzeň

We continue on to the Duo Hotel in the Czech Republic’s capital of Prague, our base for the next two nights. Along the way, we stop in Plzeň for lunch at your leisure, the birthplace of Pilsner beer. Wander through the Old Town of pastel-coloured townhouses and grand squares and if there’s time, be sure to take a look at St. Bartholomew’s Gothic Cathedral.

Day 4 – Prague - Castle & Old Town

Day 5 – Brno

We depart Prague and head to the Leonardo Hotel in Budapest, where we stay for two nights. On the

way, we visit Brno, Czechia’s ‘second city.’ With beautiful Art Nouveau villas, quirky sculptures and St. James Square full of trendy bistros, it’s an ideal stop for some lunch at your leisure.

Day 6 – Budapest

Beautiful Budapest awaits today. This beautiful and dynamic city is made up of two parts, Buda and Pest, perched opposite each other with the majestic River Danube flowing between. We enjoy a guided tour of the Hungarian capital, seeing all the famous landmarks including Castle Hill, St Stephen’s Basilica and the grandiose Parliament building before taking some time at leisure to explore the city.

Day 7 – Vienna

Leaving Hungary, we travel to Vienna and check in to the Trend Hotel Ananas, our base for the next two nights. The afternoon is left free for you to relax after the journey or explore the sights of the Austrian capital.

Day 8 – Vienna

We discover the historical city of Vienna with a guided tour. Straddling the banks of the Danube, Vienna is an undisputed centre of art and culture in Europe and is famous for its grand buildings and squares, museums, opera houses and theatres, with principal sights including Hofburg Palace and the Museum Quarter.

After our tour, we have time to enjoy the city at our own pace. Tonight, we enjoy a farewell dinner at a Viennese Heuriger (wine tavern) with wine and live music included.

Day 9

Travel to our overnight hotel in Frankfurt, where a light evening meal is included tonight.

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in Germany (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward journey on a half-board basis in Germany y 6 nights at a selection of hotels in Prague, Budapest & Vienna (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

Welcome drink

Porterage

Fruit & water in

(includes

& Brno

Services of

fridge, while other hotel facilities include a fitness centre, sauna, restaurant and bar. Trend Hotel Ananas, Vienna JG4

The stylish Trend Hotel Ananas boasts a fabulous location near the popular Naschmarkt outdoor markets in Vienna. It offers a wonderful base to relax in after sightseeing, with elegant bedrooms featuring a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and complimentary toiletries, as well as a restaurant and café/bar with classic Viennese charm. Hotel accessibility information Please visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details. Single supplement £400

Kutná Hora

Plzeň

Duo Hotel

Southern Europe

“ Breathtaking,Sorrento was amazing with a nice hotel and good food.

- Peter B, Trustpilot “

Andorra, Montserrat & Pyrenees

Experience an unforgettable getaway to Andorra, a small principality nestled between France and Spain. Featuring two scenic tours and plenty of visits, this is a wonderful chance to marvel at the stunning peaks and plunging valleys of the Pyrenees!

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Bourges

We travel onwards to our overnight hotel in pretty Clermont-Ferrand, stopping en-route in Bourges. This medieval French town boasts a UNESCO-listed cathedral, a spectacular palace, peaceful gardens and an atmospheric Old Town filled with half-timbered houses, Renaissance mansions, museums and landmarks.

Day 3 – Étang de Thau

We continue to our hotel in Andorra la Vella, visiting Étang de Thau along the way. The largest of the French coastal lagoons, this peaceful expanse is known for its unique ecosystem, rich marine life and diverse bird population. Traditional fishing villages and charming towns line its shores, including Sète, with its harbour, fresh seafood and sandy beaches. Often called the Venice of Southern France, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy lunch at your leisure.

Day 4 – Scenic Andorra

We explore Andorra’s scenic side, offering the perfect chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of La Seu d’Urgell’s historic cathedral and Old Town before discovering Puigcerdà’s pretty streets, dotted with lovely shops and cafés. Afterwards we head to the charming Andorran village of Soldeu, surrounded by stunning mountains, before arriving at Engolasters for a photo stop in this tranquil lakeside setting.

FRANCE

Day 5 – Day at leisure

Spend the day at leisure at our hotel or take the chance to explore more of the local area. Andorra la Vella is both the capital and sole town of this principality, with many historical buildings to see, such as the Casa de la Vall, which has served as a parliament building since 1702. Or why not visit the church of Santa Coloma with its decorative architectural style or the Placa del Poble?

Translated as the ‘People’s Square’, it’s a popular spot with a wonderful atmosphere!

Day 6 – Scenic Pyrenees

We explore Andorra’s scenic side, beginning with the historic cathedral and Old Town of La Seu d’Urgell, followed by Puigcerdà’s pretty streets, lined with shops and cafés. We then head to the Andorran village of Soldeu, nestled among stunning mountains, before a photo stop at peaceful Lake Engolasters.

Day 7 – Montserrat

We head to Montserrat, which means ‘serrated mountain’. This rocky range offers magnificent views of some of the most unusual geological formations in the whole of Catalonia. Nestled between the peaks is the well-known site of the Benedictine Abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, which hosts the Virgin of Montserrat sanctuary, has links to the Holy Grail and is the centre of the Catalan faith. It contains the Black Virgin of Montserrat, an incredible feat of 12th-century carving and believed to have been requested by Jesus in Jerusalem.

Andorra SPAIN

Montserrat Rocamadour

Étang de Thau

Soldeu Mediterranean Sea Puigcerdà La Seu d'Urgell

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (JG3 rating) (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stays on outward and return journey on a half-board basis

y 5 nights at a selected hotel in Andorra la Vella (JG4 rating):

y Welcome drink

y Dinner & breakfast

y Wine & water with dinner

y Free bar (8.30pm-10.30pm) on selected wine, beer, local spirits, soft drinks, tea & coffee

y Fruit & water in room on arrival

y Porterage

y Excursion to Montserrat

y Scenic tours of Andorra & the Pyrenees

(La Seu d’Urgell’s, Puigcerdà’s, Soldeu, Lake Engolasters, Meritxell & Os de Civis)

y Free time in Andorra la Vella

y En-route visits to Bourges, Étang de Thau, Rocamadour & Paris

y Services of a tour manager

YOUR HOTEL

You’ll stay at one of two hotels in Andorra la Vella

President Hotel, Andorra la Vella JG4 Boasting fabulous facilities and stunning mountainous views, the welcoming President Hotel in Andorra la Vella is the perfect base to discover this scenic region.

Hotel Panorama, Andorra la Vella JG4

Located in Andorra La Vella’s commercial district and boasting lovely views of the surrounding mountains, the Panorama Hotel has everything needed for a memorable stay.

Hotel accessibility information

Please visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details.

Single supplement £280

Day 8 – Rocamadour

We check out of our hotel and arrive in Rocamadour in the mid-afternoon. This enchanting medieval village, perched on a cliff, never fails to awe visitors with its picturesque charm. See the ancient pilgrimage site, visit the breathtaking Chapelle Notre-Dame and meander through cobblestone streets before we continue to our overnight hotel in the Limoges area, with dinner included.

Day 9 – En-route visit to Paris

Travel to our overnight hotel in France in time for dinner, stopping en-route in Paris in the mid-afternoon to see the iconic sights. You may also like to wander through the quaint streets of the Latin Quarter or along the banks of the Seine, spanned with ornate bridges, and soak up the café culture here.

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

Lake Garda & the Dolomites

With its deep azure waters fringed by pastel-coloured villas and olive and lemon groves stretching out towards the foothills of snow-capped mountains, Lake Garda is the perfect place to unwind as we visit the lakeside resorts and historic towns of this lush and rugged region. As well as plenty of time discovering one of the most breathtaking lakes in Italy, we also take in the spectacular scenery of the Dolomites on this Italian getaway.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in the Reims area on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Strasbourg

We make our way to our overnight stop in the Basel area, with an en-route excursion to Strasbourg. The capital of the Grand Est region, formerly known as Alsace, Strasbourg sits on the border (the river itself being the border) with Germany. Explore the Old Town with quaint colourful houses and twisting alleys, the canals of Petit France and the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral.

Day 3 – Lake Garda

We continue on our journey to our main hotel Garda Sol, in Lake Garda.

Day 4 – Cruising Lake Garda

We board our boat for a scenic round-trip cruise on Lake Garda. Pass by picturesque villages and lush landscapes on this delightful experience, as we glide across the serene waters. Later, we enjoy some free time in Sirmione.

Day 5 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Venice

Join us for an optional excursion to explore the unique city of Venice. Lining the canals are grand palazzos many of them dating back to the 14th century, while other attractions include St Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs and of course the gondolas that ply their trade up and down the waterways.

Day 6 – Day at leisure

Day 7 – Discover the Dolomites

We start the day with an early breakfast before heading out on a trip to Toscolano, to discover Storo and Saone, and the scenic beauty and unique attractions of each location. We stop for an hour in Molveno, a picturesque village nestled by the shores of Lake Molveno. Known for its crystal-clear waters and impressive mountain views, Molveno offers a perfect spot for relaxation. We enjoy a leisurely walk along the lake or explore the charming streets lined with quaint shops, before moving on to Mezzolombardo, a town famous for its wine production and historic architecture and beautiful buildings.

Next, we stop in Trento, home to the impressive Buonconsiglio Castle, which offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval past. We stroll through the bustling Piazza Duomo, surrounded by stunning Renaissance architecture, before we visit Peschiera del Garda and discover the ancient walls and lakeside promenade, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. We then make our way back to Toscolano.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First night on a

The scenic drive around Lake

offers breathtaking views of the shimmering waters and the surrounding mountains. Starting from Toscolano, our journey takes us through picturesque towns and lush landscapes. Be captivated by the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere of Garda Town, where you can explore local cafés and shops. Our drive takes us to Peschiera, where we can enjoy a stroll along the lakefront before we make our way back to Toscolano.

and

Étang de Thau

Montserrat

Toscolano Maderno

Mediterranean Sea ITALY

Dolomites

Lake Garda

Molveno Trento Toscolano Maderno

Mezzolombardo Venice

Garda Sol Spa Hotel

Day 8 – Scenic drive of Lake Garda

Garda

Molveno

The Italian Lakes - Maggiore, Como & Garda

Nestled in the heart of Europe, the Italian Lakes region offers a unique blend of Mediterranean appeal and alpine allure. From the lush gardens of Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore to the luxurious shores of Lake Como, each lake presents its distinctive character. As you embark on this journey, you’ll discover not only the serene beauty of the lakes but also the cultures that thrive along their shores.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1 Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – Basel

We continue to Basel for our overnight stay, via Strasbourg.

Day 3 – Gotthard Pass

We make our way to Hotel Lago di Como, via the Gotthard Pass, offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps.

Day 4 – Lake Orta & Lake Maggiore

After a leisurely breakfast, we board the coach for a short scenic drive to Lake Orta, one of the smallest lakes in Italy but also one of the prettiest. After taking in the wonderful views of the lake, we explore the town of Orta San Giulio and have time to enjoy a coffee or take the public boat over to the tiny island of San Giulio.

Next, we drive to Lake Maggiore, enjoying the stunning views along the way, as we follow the shore via Baveno to Stresa. Stretching upwards to Switzerland and the foothills of the Alps, Lake Maggiore enchants all who visit. The second largest lake in Italy is surrounded by charming towns and villages, such as Stresa, Verbania, and Ascona, each offering unique cultural and historical attractions.

We take time for lunch in Stresa and have time to explore the shops and the lakeside promenade. We also take the public boat over to Isola Bella (one of the three Borromean islands), with its 17th-century Palace and stunning Italianate gardens.

Day 5 – Lake Como

We embark on a journey to the picturesque Lake Como, where we enjoy a boat ride and explore the sophisticated city of Como, along with the resort towns of Bellagio and Tremezzo. Delight in the scenic lakefront cafés and stroll along the promenades. Discover the magnificent Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo, renowned for its exquisite villa and gardens, which stand as a testament to the elegance of 18th-century architecture overlooking the serene lake.

Day 6 – Lake Garda

Explore a haven of crystal-clear waters, shores fringed by elegant period villas, lakeside resorts and historic towns, plus olive and lemon groves

Included excursions to Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Molveno & a boat ride on Lake Orta!

stretching out towards the foothills of snow-capped mountains. We take a lunch stop and spend some time at leisure in Desenzano, the perfect spot to visit local shops or relax by the lake. Enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the quaint cafés or indulge in some delicious gelato while taking in the scenic views.

Day 7 – Day at leisure

We spend today at leisure. Join the Tour manager on an orientation walk in the town, visit its cafes, shops and public spa with natural hot thermal springs. Or choose to walk up to Forte delle Benne, a historical fort offering panoramic views.

is a pretty town which embodies the typical Trentino charm. There’s time for lunch at your leisure at one of the numerous cafes either in the town or by the lake, and we are treated to coffee or tea with pastry and biscotti. With its crystal-clear waters, Lake Molveno has won awards for its beauty, and we take in its serenity before heading north to the mountainous area of Lake Garda, to the resort town of Riva del Garda.

Day 9 – Haguenau

We begin our return journey and make our way to our overnight stop in Haguenau, where we check in and enjoy dinner.

Day 10

We continue towards Calais for our ferry journey home, stopping en-route in Reims. There’s free time here to enjoy lunch at your leisure.

you can also use their tennis court. For a supplement of €15, you can choose to access their wellness centre, with a thermal swimming pool, outdoor hydro massage tub, gym, sauna and relaxation area (spa treatments are available at an extra cost).

Hotel accessibility information Lift to all floors. Accessible entrance. Accessible rooms are available upon request. Single supplement £220

Southern Europe by coach

Lake Como

Hotel Sport

Lake Orta

Lake Maggiore

Venice, Lake Garda & Verona

Fall under the spell of northern Italy’s most romantic landscapes on this enchanting ten-day journey. Drift through the timeless beauty of Venice, where gondolas glide beneath stone bridges and the evening light shimmers across the water. Let Lake Garda captivate you with its elegant villas and Alpine horizons. Wander the fairytale streets of Sirmione, poised on the water’s edge, and stroll through Verona, where love and legend linger in every square. With a blend of guided tours and free time, join us on this unforgettable escape into Italy’s heart of beauty, poetry and romance.

Day 1

HOLIDAY

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in the Troyes area on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – Strasbourg

After breakfast, we travel onwards to our overnight hotel in Basel, with dinner included. Along the way, we stop in the French city of Strasbourg, which sits on the German border and boasts a lovely Old Town with quaint colourful houses and twisting alleys, the canals of Petit France and the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral. For 227 years, this imposing sandstone structure was the tallest building in the world and at its summit, the views stretch as far as the Black Forest.

Day 3 – Lake Garda

Continue to our hotel in the Lake Garda area, where we stay for the next six nights.

Day 4 – Sirmione

We enjoy a guided tour of one of the most postcard-perfect towns in the area. Set on a picturesque peninsula on the southern shore of Lake Garda, Sirmione is a beautifully preserved town with a turreted 13th-century castle and a maze of narrow, cobbled streets full of lovely shops and cafés.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward journey on a half-board basis in Switzerland

y 6 nights at the Hotel Royal, Garda (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Welcome drink

y Porterage

y Fruit & water in room on arrival

y Excursions to Sirmione, Venice & Verona

y Guided tour of Sirmione

y Scenic tour of Lake Garda

y En-route visits to Strasbourg, Lake Iseo & Reims

y Services of a tour manager

YOUR HOTEL

Hotel Royal, Garda JG3

Tuscan Coast with Florence & Pisa

Tuscany…just

Day 5 – Venice

Today we explore the unique city of Venice. Lining the canals are grand palazzos many of them dating back to the 14th century, while other attractions include St Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs and of course the gondolas that ply their trade up and down the waterways.

Day 6 – Day at leisure

Today, enjoy time to explore the local area at leisure.

Day 7 – Verona

We head to Verona, one of Italy’s oldest and most romantic cities, beautifully set on the banks of the River Adige. Forever linked with Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, Verona offers far more than just the famed balcony that draws lovers from around the world.

Explore the impressive Roman amphitheatre, still used for opera today, and soak up the atmosphere in Piazza Brà, the city’s grand central square lined with elegant cafés and historic buildings.

Day 8 – Scenic Lake Garda

We enjoy a guided scenic tour of Lake Garda, where elegant villas, olive and lemon groves and dramatic Alpine backdrops line the sparkling shores. Highlights include Malcesine, a picture-perfect town with winding cobbled lanes and a striking medieval castle, and Riva del Garda, a stylish resort at the northern tip of the lake. There’s free time in Riva to stroll the promenade, browse local shops or simply unwind by the water with a coffee or gelato

Boasting lovely views of the surrounding mountains, the delightful Hotel Royal in Garda is a friendly resort located on the south-east shore of Lake Garda. The hotel is only a short walk to the nearby Pini beach and offers en-suite bedrooms with a TV, restaurant, bar, swimming pool, leisure centre with a sauna and Jacuzzi plus free Wi-Fi.

Hotel accessibility information

Lift to all floors. Accessible entrance. Accessible rooms are available upon request. Single supplement £300

Day 9 – Haguenau

After breakfast, we depart our hotel in Lake Garda and head north, enjoying a scenic drive through Switzerland’s stunning landscapes before arriving at our overnight hotel in the Haguenau area.

Day 10

We depart after breakfast and head to Calais, with a stop for lunch at your leisure in the Reims area along the way. Upon arrival, we board the ferry for our crossing to the UK before completing our onward journey home.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

We board our ferry to Calais and stay overnight in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Geneva

On the way to our overnight stay in Turin, we take the opportunity to explore Geneva, a captivating city of stunning landscapes and Gothic architecture. There’s time at leisure here before we head to our hotel.

Day 3 – En-route visit to Genoa

We enjoy an en-route stop in Genoa, one of Italy’s hidden gems and enjoy some time at leisure to explore. We then travel onwards to our main hotel in Tuscany, arriving in time for dinner.

Day 4 – Pisa & Lucca

We start the day in Pisa, one of Tuscany’s most popular destinations. Here we have time to explore the history hidden around every corner of this ancient city as well as the chance to take in Pisa’s must-see sights, including the world-famous leaning tower.

Later, we travel to the city of Lucca, celebrated for its intact Renaissance walls enclosing a cobbled centre in classic Roman grid-iron fashion. During our time here, we can soak up the welcoming atmosphere that this Italian city has to offer.

Day 5 – San Gimignano

Today, we visit the picturesque Tuscan town of San Gimignano. Cameras at the ready for the stunning medieval city walls and 14 sky-scraping towers, which punctuate the hilltop setting and can be seen for miles.

Day 6 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Siena

On our optional excursion, we take the opportunity to spend a day in Siena, a beautifully preserved hilltop city surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, best known for its Palio horse race, which takes place each summer in the Piazza del Campo.

Day 7 – Day at leisure

Day 8 – Florence

Today’s exciting excursion takes us to Florence, one of Italy’s most charming destinations, where we can take our time to absorb all the beauty and culture of this historic city. Just some of the highlights include the Palazzo Vecchio, Giotti’s Bell Tower and the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s lovely ‘Old Bridge’, which is still occupied by gold and silversmiths today.

Later, we enjoy a Tuscan-style farewell dinner.

Day 9 – Dijon

Travel to our overnight hotel in the Dijon area, with a light evening meal included.

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (last night with a light evening meal)

y Overnight stay at Rivoli Hotel, Turin (JG3 rating) with dinner

Verona

Sirmione

Venice

Andrea Bocelli - Live in Tuscany

Don’t miss the chance to see the world’s most famous tenor, Andrea Bocelli, perform in his hometown of Lajatico! Just imagine taking your seat in the breathtaking setting of the Teatro del Silenzio, a stunning open-air amphitheatre created by Bocelli and nestled in the idyllic rolling hills of Tuscany, with only one concert performed here all year. We also include trips to iconic Pisa and the beautiful walled city of Lucca on this summertime escape.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry from Dover to Calais and journey to Troyes for our overnight stay.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Mâcon

We depart from Troyes and make our way to our hotel in Grenoble, with an en-route stop in historic Mâcon for some free time and lunch at your leisure.

Day 3 – Arrival at our hotel

We continue to our hotel in Montecatini Terme.

Day 4 – Montecatini Terme & Andrea Bocelli at Teatro del Silenzio*

After breakfast at our hotel, we enjoy free time to explore Montecatini Terme at leisure. The beautiful Tuscan village is one of the largest spa towns in the area, renowned for its curative waters. Take a look at the Parco delle Terme di Montecatini, an oasis of thermal waters, stunning Art Nouveau architecture and gardens. Close to our hotel is also a contemporary art gallery called the MO.C.A, which displays works of Joan Miró and Claes Oldenburg.

Later on, we enjoy an early dinner at our hotel before boarding the coach to Andrea Bocelli’s hometown of Lajatico for the highly anticipated concert. Take a look at the many statues by world-renowned artists by the lake before taking your seat to enjoy the performance in the most magical of settings, the Teatro del Silenzio, surrounded by rolling Tuscan hills.

*Please be advised there is a downhill slope from the coach park to the Teatro del Silenzio and an uphill walk back to the coach after the event.

The amphitheatre is open-air and should the concert not be able to go ahead due to incremental weather, or any other unexpected event outside of our control, it is scheduled to take place the following evening. This may mean an alteration to the itinerary. In the unlikely event of both nights being cancelled, the ticket cost is not refunded by the organisers.

Day 5 – Day at leisure

Day 6 – Pisa & Lucca

The delights of Pisa await, one of Tuscany’s most popular destinations. Here we have time to explore the history hidden around every corner of this ancient city as well as the chance to take in Pisa’s must-see sights, including the world-famous leaning tower and the marble cathedral. Another highlight in the Piazza dei Miracoli is the Baptistry, renowned for its spectacular acoustics and stunning architecture.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night at a selected hotel in Troyes (JG3+ or JG4 rating) with breakfast (last night includes a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward & return journey on a half-board basis in Grenoble

y 4 nights at a selected hotel in Montecatini Terme (JG3+ or JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Welcome drink (Montecatini Terme hotel only)

y Porterage

y Fruit & water in room on arrival

(Montecatini Terme hotel only)

y Concert ticket for Andrea Bocelli at the Teatro del Silenzio

y Excursion to Pisa & Lucca

y Free time in Montecatini Terme

y Accompanied by a UK tour manager throughout

y En-route visits to Mâcon & Beaune

YOUR HOTELS

Selected hotels in France & Italy JG3+ & JG4

We stay in various hotels located in Troyes, Grenoble and Montecatini Terme.

Please note that dinners may be a set menu for your overnight stays.

Hotel accessibility information

Your hotel will be confirmed approximately 3 weeks before departure, therefore we cannot guarantee that the hotel will have a lift and/or ground floor rooms and may be unsuitable for those with limited mobility.

Single supplement £450

Later we travel to the city of Lucca, celebrated for its intact Renaissance walls enclosing a cobbled centre in classic Roman grid-iron fashion. During our time here we can soak up the welcoming atmosphere that this Italian city has to offer: take a stroll on the tree-lined pathways along the tops of the ancient ramparts, visit the house museum of the great opera composer, Giacomo Puccini, or seek out a side street restaurant and enjoy the delicious cuisine on offer.

Day 7 – Grenoble

We check out of our hotel in Italy and travel to our hotel in Grenoble, arriving in time for dinner.

Day 8 – En-route visit to Beaune

Continuing the journey home, we pause en-route in Beaune and enjoy lunch here. We then journey to Troyes for our overnight stop, with a light evening meal included.

Day 9

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

Impressions of Italy

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1 Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Strasbourg

Travel onwards to our overnight hotel in Basel, with dinner included. Along the way, we stop in the French city of Strasbourg, which sits on the German border and boasts a lovely Old Town with quaint colourful houses and twisting alleys, the canals of Petit France and the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral. For 227 years, this imposing sandstone structure was the tallest building in the world and at its summit, the views stretch as far as the Black Forest.

Day 3 – En-route visit to Pisa

We continue on to Hotel Biondi in Montecatini Terme, driving through stunning Alpine vistas. Just one highlight is St Gottard Pass, which connects the northern and southern regions of Switzerland and offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. We also stop en-route in Pisa, where must-sees include the world-famous leaning tower, the marble cathedral and spectacular baptistery of the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Day 4 – Montecatini Terme

Today we enjoy a guided walking tour of Montecatini Terme. As one of the largest spa towns in the area, renowned for its curative waters, we take a look at the Parco delle Terme di Montecatini, an oasis of thermal waters, stunning Art Nouveau architecture and peaceful gardens. The rest of the day is left free to relax at the hotel or continue seeing the sights. You may like to visit the contemporary art gallery of MO.C.A, which displays works of Joan Miró and Claes Oldenburg.

Day 5 – Siena

We leave Montecatini Terme and travel via Siena, a beautifully-preserved hilltop city surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, best known for its Palio horse race which takes place each summer in the Piazza del Campo. We continue south to the Eternal City and check into the iH Hotels Roma Z3, where we stay for two nights.

Day 6 – Rome

We begin our day with a guided tour of Rome, featuring landmarks such as Via Veneto, Santa Maria Maggiore, Circus Maximus, Ponte Sisto and the iconic Colosseum - the largest amphitheatre of the Roman Empire. Continuing on foot, we take in some of the city’s most famous sights: the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona and the Spanish Steps. The afternoon is free to explore at your own pace before we return to the hotel for dinner.

Day 7 – Florence

After checking out of our Rome hotel, we head to Florence, one of Italy’s most captivating cities.

Must-sees include the Palazzo Vecchio, linked to the Medici and the Ponte Vecchio, still home to gold and silversmiths. The city’s true icon, the Duomo, stuns with its terracotta dome, marble façade and Giotto’s bell tower. Afterwards, we travel to the Hotel Kona near Verona, our base for two nights.

Day 8 – Venice

We explore the city of Venice, a floating masterpiece filled with winding canals and sunlit piazzas.

Highlights include St Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs and the iconic gondolas gliding along its waterways, all offering postcard-worthy views.

Day 9

Travel to our overnight hotel in France, with a light evening meal included.

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home, stopping along the way in the pretty city of Reims for some lunch at your leisure.

Guided city

YOUR HOTELS

Hotel Biondi, Montecatini Terme JG3+

Located in the heart of Montecatini Terme,

Andrea Bocelli - Live in Tuscany

Mediterranean Sea

Pisa Lucca Montecatini Terme

Asti Lajatico

Montecatini Terme

Pisa

Bocelli

Pompeii, Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast

Meandering along the southwestern region of Italy, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most stunning spots in Europe. With dramatic mountains plunging into the sparkling sea, pastel-coloured buildings clinging onto the cliffs and lemon groves weaving through rolling vineyards, this UNESCO World Heritage landscape is a real must-see! We take in its beauty during our wonderful Italian escape, which also includes time in scenic Sorrento, iconic Rome, pizza-loving Naples and remarkable Pompeii. With new discoveries being made and different houses opening, there is no better time to discover this snapshot of Roman life – it is utterly fascinating.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – En-route visit to Lyon

Travel onwards to our overnight hotel in Grenoble, stopping en-route in Lyon – the perfect place to enjoy lunch at your leisure thanks to its reputation as the gourmet capital of France! Situated where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, this impressive city takes us on a journey through time. Its Old Town – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – offers a maze of narrow streets, vaulted passageways and historic buildings, while another highlight is the Notre Dame de Fourvière, a late 19th-century basilica built in shimmering white stone.

Day 3

Continue onwards to our overnight hotel in northern Italy, with dinner included.

Day 4

We continue on to our hotel in the Sorrento area, where we stay for the next seven nights, with dinner included.

Day 5 – Sorrento

We include return transfer to the centre of Sorrento, where we enjoy some time at leisure. Overlooking the Bay of Naples, there are some lovely views on offer from the waterside restaurants, or head to the bustling Old Town for a gelato or liminoro before exploring the sun-trapped squares, cobbled streets, unique shops and historic sites such as the 14th-century Sedile Dominova and the beautiful Cathedral of Sorrento.

A fascinating day awaits amidst the ruins of ancient Pompeii, one of Europe’s most compelling archaeological sites. The town was buried under a layer of lava and ash by Mount Vesuvius in AD79; the result is a well-preserved slice of Roman life in the 1st century with shops, schools, houses, theatres, baths and more. There are many fascinating artefacts to discover, along with wall paintings, mosaics and street graffiti, which all survive in remarkably good state. Walking these ancient streets in the footsteps of gladiators, slaves, senators and citizens is a truly memorable experience and is a must-do while in this region.

Day 7 – Day at leisure

Choose to relax at the hotel today or head back into Sorrento to discover more of this stunning city.

Day 8 – Amalfi Coast

We take a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast, a beautiful and renowned stretch of mountainous coastline dotted with picturesque towns and villages perched on the rugged cliffs. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the area is also renowned for the cultivation of lemons, grown in terraced gardens along the coast, and the production of limoncello liqueur. We have some time in the picture-perfect town of Amalfi before catching the ferry to Maiori, popular for its stunning beach.

Our destination today is the largest city of southern Italy, Naples, often referred to as an open-air museum due to its abundance of historic statues and monuments. Stroll through the ancient piazzas, head to the seafront to explore the harbour and the Castel dell’Ovo or visit the National Archaeological Museum of Naples. The range of mosaics, sculptures and silver, uncovered during excavations at Pompeii and other archaeological sites, make up one of the world’s best collections of Greek and Roman antiques here. Or simply enjoy the authentic Italian cuisine; as the home of pizza, the food in Naples won’t disappoint!

Day 10 – Rome

We head to Rome where we have the afternoon to explore at leisure and time to choose a restaurant for an early dinner in the golden light of the Eternal City. Highlights include the iconic Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre ever built in the Roman Empire, the Spanish Steps, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain.

Day 11

Enjoy time to explore more of Italy’s capital city before staying overnight in the Rome area, with dinner included.

Day 12

We begin our journey home, stopping overnight in northern Italy, with dinner included.

£420

Day 13

We travel onwards to our overnight hotel in France, with a light evening meal included.

Day 14

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

Southern Europe by coach

Amalfi Coast

Mediterranean Sea

Sorrento Naples Rome

Day 6 – Pompeii

Sorrento

Pompeii

Amalfi Coast

Day 9 – Naples

Amalfi Coast

Grand Tour of Italy

Memorable meals, guided highlights & time to explore at your own pace, this is Italy at its most captivating

Embark on a spectacular journey through Italy’s most iconic cities and breathtaking landscapes. From soaring Alpine passes to the Renaissance splendour of Florence, the romantic canals of Venice and the ancient grandeur of Rome, each day reveals a new cultural treasure. Stroll through charming piazzas, admire world-famous landmarks and unwind in the elegant spa town of Montecatini Terme. Discover timeless Verona, where love and legend linger and enjoy leisurely days to truly savour la dolce vita. With memorable meals, guided highlights and time to explore at your own pace, this is Italy at its most captivating.

HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in the Reims area on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 - Strasbourg

Day 3 – Alpine Vistas & Pisa

Our journey continues through breathtaking Alpine scenery as we travel via the historic Gotthard Pass into Italy. En-route, we pause in Pisa to admire the iconic Leaning Tower and its striking Romanesque cathedral, before reaching our hotel in the elegant spa town of Montecatini.

Day 4 – Florence

We travel by coach to Florence, a city that embodies the spirit of the Renaissance and overflows with artistic and architectural splendour. Enjoy our guided walking tour, perhaps step inside the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, admire the intricate detail of Giotto’s Bell Tower or simply savour the atmosphere around the magnificent Duomo. Don’t miss a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, where gold and silversmiths have sold their wares for centuries in its picturesque riverside shops.

Day 5 – Day at Leisure

Enjoy a day at your own pace in the elegant spa town of Montecatini Terme. Choose to relax at one of the town’s historic thermal baths, take a stroll through its leafy parks and piazzas or ride the charming funicular up to Montecatini Alto for sweeping views and a leisurely lunch at your leisure. However you spend the day, it’s a perfect opportunity to unwind and soak up the relaxed rhythm of Tuscan life.

Day 6 – Siena

We leave Montecatini Terme and travel to Rome via Siena in central Tuscany – a beautifully-preserved hilltop city surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, best known for its Palio horse race which takes place each summer in the Piazza del Campo. After time enjoying the square and admiring the medieval brick buildings, we continue south to our hotel on the outskirts of Rome, where we stay for two nights.

Day 7 – Discover Rome

We explore the Eternal City on a guided tour, allowing you to fully appreciate the rich history and iconic sights. Highlights may include the Colosseum, Roman Forum and the grandeur of St. Peter’s Square. Afterwards, there’s time to wander at your own pace, enjoy a coffee in a sunlit piazza or visit a favourite museum before an evening at leisure to dine as you wish and soak up Rome’s vibrant atmosphere.

After breakfast, we head out to enjoy an en-route visit to Orvieto on our way to the next hotel.

Day 9 – Bassano del Grappa

Today we visit Bassano del Grappa, a picturesque town located in the Veneto region of Italy, known for its stunning medieval architecture and the iconic wooden bridge, Ponte degli Alpini. This charming town offers a blend of history and culture, with several museums and art galleries to explore. It is also famous for its production of grappa, a unique Italian spirit.

Day 10 – Venice

We spend time in Venice, a city renowned for its beauty, architecture and artwork. We enjoy a guided tour of this ‘Floating City’ with over 400 bridges and 177 canals. Venice is known as the ‘City of Bridges’ and attracts visitors from all over the world to view its wonderful monuments, houses and squares, such as the Piazza San Marco, which contains St. Marks Basilica. Other highlights include the Bridge of Sighs, the Doge’s Palace and of course the gondolas that ply their trade up and down the canals.

Verona, famed as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet On arrival, enjoy time to explore its atmospheric streets, from the ancient Roman Arena to Juliet’s legendary balcony. Wander through elegant piazzas and perhaps pause for a final gelato. In the evening, we gather to

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (JG3 rating) (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward & return journey in Switzerland/France (JG3 rating) on a half-board basis

y 9 nights at a selection of hotels in Italy (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Excursions to Florence, Rome & Venice

y En-route visits to Strasbourg, Pisa, Siena, Orvieto & Verona

y Guided tour of Rome, Pisa, Verona, Florence & Venice

y Scenic drive through the Alps (includes St Gotthard Pass)

y Welcome drink

y Porterage

y Fruit & water in room on arrival

y Services of a tour manager

YOUR HOTELS

Selection of hotels, Italy JG4

We’ll stay in a hand-picked selection of comfortable hotels throughout Italy, each chosen for its quality, location and warm hospitality. These include the Hotel Adua in Montecatini, the Green Park Hotel, Pamphili, in Rome, Hotel Aosta in Piemonte and either the Hotel Palladio or the Hotel Belvedere in Bassano del Grappa – all rated JG4. We’ll also stay in a selection of overnight hotels in Reims, Basel, Grenoble and Troyes.

Hotel accessibility information

Day

Travel

Day 13

After

Venice

Pisa

Florence

Day 8 – Orvieto

Florence Siena

CORSICA

Montepulciano

Orvieto

Montecatini

Bassano del Grapp

Verona

Bassano del Grappa

Portofino, San Remo & Monte Carlo

Experience the glamour and coastal beauty of the Italian Riviera on this ten-day holiday based in sun-kissed Diano Marina. Explore Monaco and world-famous Monte Carlo, with its iconic casino and opulent waterfront. Enjoy a scenic boat trip from Rapallo to picturesque Portofino, known for its pastel harbour and chic boutiques. There’s also the option to join our Wines of Liguria excursion to sample the region’s finest vintages. With time to relax and explore, this is the perfect Riviera escape.

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in the Reims area on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 - Dijon

After breakfast, we continue our scenic journey through France, with a lunch stop in Dijon - home to the famous French mustard!

Day 3 – Diano Marina

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel. In the afternoon, we head to Diano Marina to explore the local shops, cafés and charming seafront promenade – perfect for a relaxed stroll and a taste of Ligurian life.

Day 4 – Monaco & Monte Carlo

We head to the tiny but dazzling principality of Monaco and its most glamorous quarter, Monte Carlo. Famed for its opulent lifestyle, world-class casinos and jet-set appeal, this coastal gem is a playground for the rich and famous. Admire the sleek yachts in the bustling marina, take in the grandeur of the Prince’s Palace or wander the elegant streets lined with designer boutiques and chic cafés. From the historic Monte Carlo Casino to the breathtaking sea views, Monaco may be less than a square mile in size, but it delivers glamour and beauty in abundance.

Day 5 – Day at leisure or optional Wines of Liguria excursion

On our optional excursion, we spend the day at the Bersano winery in Nizza Monferrato, in the heart of the Barbera d’Asti region – a renowned wine area and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and sun-drenched hills, we discover the rich heritage of Piedmontese winemaking. Enjoy a tour of the historic cellars and museum, followed by a tasting of locally produced wines, including the celebrated Barbera. With time to relax and take in the beautiful scenery, it’s a delightful day celebrating the flavours and traditions of this famous region.

Day 6 – Day at leisure

Enjoy time at the hotel or a relaxing day exploring the local sights.

Day 7 – Portofino

Today, we embark on a scenic boat trip from Rapallo, gliding along the Ligurian coastline past craggy cliffs, hidden coves and sun-drenched villas. Our destination is the picture-perfect harbour of Portofino, where sleek yachts bob beside brightly painted fishing boats in a timeless tableau of Riviera charm. Stroll the cobbled lanes, explore stylish boutiques or simply linger over a coffee at a harbourfront café, soaking in the elegant atmosphere. For those seeking a view from above, a gentle walk to the historic Castello Brown rewards with sweeping vistas of the turquoise bay and surrounding coastline.

Day 8 – San Remo

This morning, we take a leisurely half-day trip to the elegant coastal town of San Remo. Known for its palm-lined promenades, Art Nouveau villas and vibrant flower market, San Remo blends Riviera charm with Italian flair. Enjoy time to explore the Old Town or relax by the sea. This evening, we come together for a farewell dinner featuring delicious Ligurian specialities – a perfect end to our journey.

Day 9

Travel to our overnight hotel in France, with a light evening meal included.

Day 10

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (last night with a light evening meal

y Additional overnight stay on the outward journey on a half-board basis in France

y 6 nights at a selected hotel in Diano Marina (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

(includes one Ligurian speciality dinner)

y Welcome drink

y Porterage

y Water in room on arrival

y Live music on some evenings

y Free bar (7pm-10pm on local brands (spirits, beer, wine, soft drinks & tea & coffee)

y Excursions to Monaco, Monte Carlo, Portofino & San Remo

y En-route visit to Dijon

y Scenic boat trip from Rapallo to Portofino

y Free time in Diano Marina

y Services of a tour manager

CAMERA-ALT Optional Wines of Liguria excursion (£39pp)

YOUR HOTEL

You’ll stay at one of two hotels in Diano Marina

Hotel Bergamo, San Bartolomeo Al Mare JG3

Hotel Bergamo is located close to the beach in the charming coastal town of San Bartolomeo Al Mare on the picturesque Ligurian coastline.

Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and an outdoor pool.

Hotel accessibility information Lift to all floors. Accessible entrance.

Hotel Mayola, San Bartolomeo Al Mare JG3

Hotel Mayola, located in the charming town of San Bartolomeo Al Mare on the Italian Riviera, this relaxed hotel is nestled along the picturesque Ligurian coast, close to the beach.

Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and an outdoor swimming pool. For those looking to explore, the hotel is conveniently located near the beach and several local attractions, making it an ideal base for sightseeing.

Hotel accessibility information Lift to all floors. Accessible rooms are available upon request.

Single supplement £250

Provence, Marseille & St Tropez

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in the Reims area on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 – Chablis

After breakfast, we continue our scenic journey through France, stopping in Chablis for lunch at your leisure before arriving in the Macon area for our second overnight stay.

Day 3 – Avignon

We continue to our hotel in Toulon, stopping en-route in Avignon for lunch at your leisure. This striking, historic city was once the seat of the Catholic Popes – don’t miss the impressive Palais des Papes, one of the largest Gothic buildings in Europe. You can also explore the city’s well-preserved ramparts, mansion-lined streets, lively squares and the famous Pont d’Avignon.

Day 4 – St Tropez

We take a cruise from St Maxime to glamorous St Tropez on the French Riviera. Known for its sandy beaches, azure waters and yacht-filled harbour, this chic coastal town has long drawn the jet-set and art lovers alike. Artists like Matisse and Signac found inspiration here and today it continues to attract visitors in search of sunshine, style and Provençal charm.

Day 5 – Walking City Tour of Toulon

Today, we enjoy a walking tour of Toulon, a vibrant city known for its beautiful sandy beaches and lively cultural scene. The city’s old town, Le Mourillon, is characterised by narrow streets and colourful markets, while at the same time, the waterfront provides stunning views of the harbour and the shimmering blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 6 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Grasse and Cannes

We start this exciting day of sightseeing in the morning in Grasse, the world’s perfume capital. Located in the hills of the French Riviera, Grasse’s history is as rich and layered as the fragrances that waft through its streets. Explore this picturesque town at your leisure, with its vibrant fields of flowers, charming medieval streets and stunning panoramic views.

In the afternoon, we head to one of the most well-known spots on the French Riviera, famed for its international film festival – Cannes. The name is synonymous with glamour, luxury and the finest in cinematic artistry. Stroll along La Croisette, the city’s iconic boulevard lined with palm trees, high-end boutiques and grand hotels. Cannes is not only a playground for the elite but also a city rich in culture, with historic sites like the Le Suquet district, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the old-world charm of the Côte d’Azur.

Day 7 – Marseille & Cassis

We begin the day in Marseille, France’s oldest city, rich in history and tradition. Highlights include the bustling Vieux Port, the characterful Le Panier district and Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched atop the city’s highest point with sweeping views.

Next, we travel to Cassis, a colourful fishing town overlooked by a centuries-old château. Enjoy lunch at your leisure and explore the charming harbour, cobbled streets and pastel buildings. Seafood lovers can indulge in the freshest catch of the Côte d’Azur, best enjoyed with a chilled glass of local wine.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward journey on a half-board basis in France

y 6 nights at the ibis Styles Toulon Centre,

Marseille

Land of Castles & Kings - Barcelona to Bilbao

Day 10 – Monasterio de Leyre & Castille de Javiermon

Delve into medieval Spain at its finest on this historical tour, where our enchanting itinerary reads like a fairytale kingdom treasure map, from stunning walled towns laden with watchtowers to hilltop fortresses that have a drawbridge to enter, such as the spectacular Castille de Javiermon. Our experience is enhanced with stays in authentic paradors: Spanish hotels set in ancient buildings such as castles, palaces and monasteries, each reflect the local culture and cuisine of their region. From bustling Barcelona, we journey across Catalonia, Aragon, Navarre and Basque Country, stopping along the way in a host of unique destinations that transport us back to a time of saints, kings, queens and castles.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 - En-route visit to Lyon

Travel onwards to our overnight hotel in the Montpellier region, stopping en-route in Lyon – the perfect place to stop for lunch at your leisure thanks to its reputation as the gourmet capital of France! Situated where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, this impressive city takes us on a journey through time. Its Old Town – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – offers a maze of narrow streets, vaulted passageways and historic buildings, while another highlight is the Notre Dame de Fourvière, a late 19th-century basilica built in shimmering white stone.

Day 3 - En-route visit to Étang de Thau

We continue onwards to the Evenia Roselló Hotel in Barcelona, visiting Étang de Thau along the way, known as the Venice of Southern France. The largest of the lagoons located along the French coast, this tranquil expanse of water is renowned for its unique ecosystem, which supports a rich variety of marine life and attracts many different migratory birds. During our journey we also stop for lunch at your leisure in the charming Catalonian city of Girona, with its beautifully preserved Jewish quarter and grandiose Gothic cathedral.

Day 4 – Barcelona

Join our guided city tour of Barcelona today, the capital of Catalonia. We see all the highlights of this beachside city, including the historic Gothic Quarter, the bustling streets known as the Ramblas and Gaudí’s incredible cathedral, the Sagrada Familia.

Day 5

We spend the morning at leisure before making our way to the beautiful Parador de Cardona, where we stay for the next two nights.

Day 6 – Salt Mines of Cardona

Today we visit the fascinating Salt Mines of Cardona, a geologic wonder formed when the Mediterranean Sea became cut off from the Atlantic Ocean and evaporated over 30 million years ago. These mines have been a vital source of salt since ancient times, with evidence of extraction dating back to the Neolithic period! We descend to a depth of 86 metres to marvel at the shapes, textures, colours and intricate patterns of the salt formations here.

Day 7 – La Seu d’Urgell

After breakfast we head to the quaint town of La Seu d’Urgell, the gateway to the Pyrenees. We enjoy a guided tour, taking in the Old Town with its narrow winding streets, quaint shops and picturesque squares that transport us back in time, along with the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria. Dating back to the 12th century, this is a fine example of Catalan Romanesque architecture and is the seat of the Bishops of Urgell, Co-Prince of Andorra. Later we check into the Hotel & Spa El Castell de Ciutat, our base for the next two nights.

Day

– Day at Leisure

Today is spent at leisure – whether you’d like to make the most of the facilities at the hotel or head into La Seu D’Urgell to explore, the choice is yours!.

Day 9

Today we travel to Parador de Calahorra, stopping for lunch at your leisure along the way in Zaragoza, the stunning capital of Aragon. Following in the footsteps of the famous painter, Francisco Goya, be sure to admire the striking cathedral before finding a tapas bar or little restaurant – just one of the famous dishes here is migas, made from bread crumbs, garlic and often chorizo!

This morning we visit the Monasterio de Leyre, a historic Benedictine monastery along the Way of Saint James in the Navarre region. The oldest records here date back to 842 when the first king of Pamplona made a donation. It became increasingly significant thereafter and several kings of Navarre were buried at the monastery. The architecture is impressive, ranging from a Romanesque church to an ancient crypt, while the views over the surrounding landscapes are spectacular. We continue to the 10th-century Castille de Javiermon, where the ancient towers and walls are beautifully set against the rolling countryside like a scene from a Spanish fairytale. Once a strategic watchtower between the kingdoms of Navarre and Aragon, this was also the birthplace and childhood home of Saint Francis Xavier, who co-founded the Jesuit Order. Highlights here include the museum dedicated to the saint’s life, along with his room and the old stables, which contains works of art, ancient utensils, historic documents and other interesting items.

Day 11 - En-route visit to Pamplona

We check out of the Parador and make our way to Bilbao via Pamplona for lunch at your leisure. The capital of the Navarre region, this pretty city is known for its vibrant cultural traditions and charming Old Town of medieval architecture, picturesque squares and quaint cobblestone streets.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward & return journey on a half-board basis in France

y 9 nights at a selection of hotels & paradors in Spain (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

y Welcome drink

y Porterage

y Fruit & water in room on arrival

y Sangria-making lesson or cookery demonstration

y Excursions to the Salt Mines of Cardona, Monasterio de Leyre & Castillo de Javiermon

y Guided city tours of Barcelona & La Seu d’Urgell

y En-route visits to Lyon, Éthang de Thau, Girona, Zaragoza, Pamplona, Bordeaux, Le Mans & Le Touquet

y Free time in Bilbao y Services of a tour manager

YOUR HOTELS

Evenia Roselló Hotel, Barcelona JG4

Located in the Eixample district of Barcelona and steps from Passeig de Gràcia, the Evenia Roselló Hotel is a wonderful retreat in the bustling city. Amenities include a restaurant, gym, sun terrace and recently

Parador de Cardona JG4

Sitting atop a promontory, the stunning Parador de Cardona is one of Catalonia’s most impressive medieval complexes. The restaurant is fit for a king, located in the old refectory, while other features include a relaxing sauna, terrace and gym. Hotel & Spa El Castell de Ciutat, La Seu d’Urgell JG4

Features include an outdoor swimming pool with glorious views, a restaurant, terrace, garden, wellness centre and spa with an indoor pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym and Turkish bath (treatments are available at an extra cost).

URH Palacio de Oriol, Santurce JG4

The lovely URH Palacio de Oriol is a fully refurbished 1906 palace and declared historic monument, situated in the port town of Santurce, near Bilbao. The hotel offers a restaurant, gym and bike rental along with stunning views over the Abra Bay.

Parador de Calahorra JG4

Tucked away in the pretty Rioja region and surrounded by a palm garden, the elegant Parador de Calahorra is housed in a red-brick building, featuring medieval-style décor, traditional large doorways and a serene atmosphere.

Hotel

Parador de Cardona

Rioja Barcelona Cardona

La Seu d'Urgell Zaragoza

Monasterio de Leyre

Bilbao Pamplona La Seu d’Urgell

Parador

Viva España - the Costa Blanca & Brava

Step onto the sun-soaked shores of the Spanish coast on this lovely holiday, where we enjoy all-inclusive stays in both pretty Calella and Benidorm. With plenty of time to relax, we also uncover the highlights of the Costa Brava, from the vibrant city of Barcelona to the enchanting town of Tossa de Mar, where medieval charm meets glistening turquoise waters. Along the Costa Blanca, we take a guided tour of historic Valencia, discover the port city of Alicante and explore Elche, famous for its abundance of gently swaying palm trees set against wide blue skies. The chance to visit Villajoyosa (the Joyful Town) completes this celebration of España - vamos!

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1 Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 - En-route visit to Lyon

Included guided tours of Tossa de Mar, Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante & Elche You’ll love this...

Day 3 - En-route visit to Perpignan

We continue onwards to the htop Calella Palace & Spa in the Catalonian town of Calella, visiting Perpignan along the way. Near to the Spanish border, this charming French town was once declared the centre of the world by Salvador Dalí and is a listed Town of Art and History. The medieval centre is a delight to explore, boasting the Moorish-style Palace of the Kings of Mallorca and the mighty 14th-century city gate, which is now home to the Museum of Catalan History.

Day 4 – Tossa de Mar

We take a guided morning trip to Tossa de Mar, once a medieval town and now a popular seaside resort that has managed to retain all of its original charm and character. Away from the beach and turquoise waters, discover the walled Old Town with its tangle of cobbled streets and enchanting castle.

Day 5 – Day at Leisure

We enjoy a day at leisure to relax at the hotel or explore the local sights.

Day 6 – Barcelona

We head to beautiful Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious tapas and vibrant culture. Discover the highlights of this beachside city during our guided tour, including the historic Gothic Quarter, the bustling streets known as the Ramblas and Gaudí’s incredible cathedral, the Sagrada Familia.

Day 7 – Travel to Benidorm

Leaving the Costa Brava, we travel to the Costa Blanca where we check into Port Fiesta Park in Benidorm and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 8 – Valencia

Today’s excursion takes us to the charming city of Valencia, the third largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona, founded in 138BC by the Romans. On our guided tour we learn more about its fascinating history and discover the picturesque Old Quarter with is labyrinth of cobbled streets, lined with medieval buildings and towers that were once part of the ancient wall that surrounded the old city. There are also city beaches with tree-lined promenades, scenic gardens and an attractive cathedral on offer here.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the coastal town of Villajoyosa, known to the locals as La Vila and translated to Joyful Town in English. This pretty town is famous for the many brightly coloured homes on the palm-tree-lined promenade and for its local chocolate! As part of our guided visit, we head to the Valor Chocolate Museum to learn the history of the town’s chocolate-making and see how it’s made – don’t forget to visit their in-house shop for some free samples and souvenirs too.

Day 10 – Day at Leisure

Choose to spend some down time at the hotel or why not explore the highlights of our popular resort, such as Benidorm Old Town? Also known as Casco Antiguo, this historic quarter is characterised by its narrow cobbled streets, white-washed houses and traditional Spanish architecture. There are plenty of quaint shops to explore plus a variety of restaurants (Tapas Alley is a real highlight!) serving authentic Spanish cuisine. Don’t miss the Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana too, which dates back to the 18th century and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 11 – Alicante & Elche

Two of the Costa Blanca’s most picturesque destinations await today, beginning with a guided tour of Alicante. The major landmark of this bustling city is the medieval Castle of Santa Barbara, which stands on the top of Mount Benacantil, offering fabulous views.

Other attractions include the Esplanada de España, a palm-tree-lined promenade paved with wavy marble floor tiles and the Gravina Palace, located in the Old Town. The marina is a popular hotspot, full of restaurants, cafés and shops, and is the perfect place to admire the luxury yachts moored here.

Our next stop is Elche, well-known for its UNESCO protected palm orchard planted in Roman times and its shoemaking tradition. Considered to be one of the most important cities in the Province, Elche is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sights. Explore at your leisure some of the many highlights, such as the Basilica de Santa Maria and the famous ‘Huerto del Cura’, home to the great imperial palm and more than 2,000 species of flora and fauna.

Day 12 – Travel to Costa Brava

We check out of our hotel and make our way back to Calella Palace, where we stay overnight.

Day 13 – Dijon

We travel to our overnight hotel in Dijon, stopping along the way for lunch (not included).

Day 14

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

available upon request.

Hotel Port Fiesta Park, Benidorm JG3 This 338-room hotel is located just 650 metres from Poniente Beach and within walking distance of the Old Town restaurants and bars. The hotel features a restaurant, bar, lounge, gym, outdoor swimming pool and an indoor rooftop pool.

Hotel accessibility information Please visit nationalholidays.com/accessibility or call our friendly reservations team for further details. Single supplement £420

Benidorm

Tossa de Mar

Benidorm

Barcelona

Tossa de Mar

Day 9 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Villajoyosa

Valencia

Elche

htop Calella Palace & Spa

Sunshine & Spanish Charm on Costa Brava

Ready for sunshine, sea views and a generous helping of Spanish charm? Join us on a 14-day escape to the gorgeous Costa Brava, where lazy days blend beautifully with picture-perfect towns and just the right dose of culture. Wander medieval streets, dip into Dalí’s surreal world and take in the dramatic beauty of Montserrat, a mountain retreat steeped in legend and spirituality. With gentle coach travel, stunning scenery and plenty of fun along the way, this tour is the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation on Spain’s spectacular northeastern coast.

Day 4 – Tossa de Mar

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2 - En-route visit to Lyon

Travel onwards to our overnight hotel in the Montpellier region, stopping en-route in Lyon

– the perfect place to stop for lunch at your leisure thanks to its reputation as the gourmet capital of France! Situated where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, this impressive city takes us on a journey through time. Its Old Town – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – offers a maze of narrow streets, vaulted passageways and historic buildings, while another highlight is the Notre Dame de Fourvière, a late 19th-century basilica built in shimmering white stone.

Day 3 - En-route visit to Perpignan

We continue onwards to our hotel in Lloret de Mar, visiting Perpignan along the way. Near the Spanish border, this charming French town was once declared the centre of the world by Salvador Dalí and is a listed Town of Art and History. The medieval centre is a delight to explore, boasting the Moorish-style Palace of the Kings of Mallorca and the mighty 14th-century city gate, which is now home to the Museum of Catalan History.

Day 5 & 6 – Days at Leisure

Enjoy two full days at leisure in the lively resort of Lloret de Mar. Relax on golden beaches, explore the town’s historic centre or stroll the palm-lined promenade with its sea views and bustling cafés. Perhaps visit the romantic Santa Clotilde Gardens or browse local boutiques for souvenirs. Whether you choose to unwind by the water, sample delicious Catalan cuisine or simply soak up the sun, Lloret offers the perfect mix of fun and relaxation.

Day 7 – Besalú and Figueres

A scenic drive along the coast awaits. We stop first in Besalú, a beautifully preserved medieval town with a 12th-century Romanesque bridge over the River Fluvià, narrow arcaded streets and small squares. We then head to the charming town of Figueres, birthplace of the eccentric artist Salvador Dalí and a lovely spot for some souvenir shopping.

Day 8 – Montserrat

Day 9 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Girona with guided city tour

Join our optional excursion to Girona, a compact and charming city located halfway between the sea and mountains. There is plenty to enjoy during our day out here, from discovering the grandiose Gothic cathedral to exploring the beautifully preserved Jewish quarter. We enjoy a guided tour of the city and explore the cobblestone streets, the medieval architecture and discover the hidden gems of this captivating Catalonian city.

Included excursions to Tossa de Mar, Besalú, Figueres, Montserrat & Barcelona

Day 10 – Day at leisure

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in Lloret de Mar. Take a dip in the clear Mediterranean waters, find a shady spot on the beach or explore the historic Old Town with its pretty churches and lively squares. For a touch of tranquillity, stroll through the clifftop Santa Clotilde Gardens or simply relax with a drink at a beachfront café. However you spend your day, Lloret offers the perfect slice of Costa Brava life.

Day 11 – Barcelona

We head to beautiful Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious tapas and vibrant culture. Highlights of this beachside city include the historic Gothic Quarter, the bustling streets known as the Ramblas and Gaudí’s incredible cathedral, the Sagrada Familia.

Day 12 – Day at leisure

Spend the day exactly as you please in Lloret de Mar. Whether you fancy a swim in the sparkling Mediterranean, a wander through the charming Old Town with its historic churches and bustling plazas or a lazy afternoon by the sea, the choice is yours.

Day 13

We travel to our overnight hotel in Dijon, stopping along the way for lunch (not included).

Day 14

Continue to Calais for our return ferry home.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on the outward journey on a half-board basis in France

y 9 nights at a selected hotel on the Costa Brava (JG3 or JG4 rating) on an all-inclusive basis:

y Breakfast, lunch & dinner

y Free bar (3pm-9pm) on local Spanish brands (spirits, beer, wine & soft drinks)

y Excursions to Tossa de Mar, Besalú, Figueres,

All hotels have a lift.

Single supplement from £350

Lloret de Mar

Besalú

Tossa de Mar

Lloret de Mar

Tossa de Mar

Costa Brava

Charming Croatia & Slovenia

From sparkling coastlines, sun-drenched olive groves and terracotta-roofed towns to subterranean caves and beautiful lakes, discovering the landscapes of Croatia and Slovenia is like stepping straight into picture-perfect postcards. On this 14-day holiday, look forward to exploring the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana and the famous Lake Bled before meandering through to Croatia, stopping to enjoy a unique train journey through Postonja Cave along the way. From our base in stunning Rabac, we visit Pula, with its fascinating Roman ruins and relaxing squares, as well as Rovinj, a charming town of pastel-coloured buildings and cobbled alleyways. With the chance to uncover more of the idyllic Istrian Peninsula too, this is a wonderful way to tick some iconic destinations off your must-see list!

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and overnight stay in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2

Travel onwards through France and Germany to our overnight hotel in the famous Munich area of Bavaria, arriving in time for dinner.

Day 3 - Panoramic tour of Munich

After a panoramic tour of the Bavarian city of Munich, with its stunning architecture and large squares, we continue onwards to Hotel Evropa in Celje, Slovenia.

Day 4 – Ljubljana

The elegant city of Ljubljana awaits, Slovenia’s capital and one of Europe’s greenest cities. As we wander through the beautiful streets, our guide highlights the intricate bridges and buildings built by Jože Plečnik, Slovenia’s master of early-modern minimalist design, including the Triple Bridge, which connects Ljubljana’s Old Town to the modern city. We also take in cultural monuments such as the National Museum and Opera House and stroll along the leafy banks of the emerald-green Ljubljanica River through the city’s heart.

Day 5 – Day at Leisure

We enjoy a day at leisure to relax at the hotel or explore the local sights.

Day 6 – Bled

We spend the day discovering the natural beauty of Bled, one of the country’s most popular destinations. Ringed by forested hills and looking out across the usually still lake to an island crowned by a Baroque church, Bled itself is a wonderful resort surrounded by stunning scenery. Listen as our local guide tells us about the history of Bled and its ties to the Holy Roman Emperor, Henry II, and enjoy the views of Bled Castle, which overlooks the town from a lofty perch on the opposite shore, before spending some time at leisure in the lakeside resort. Sample a local specialty in one of the restaurants or perhaps take a gondola-like pletna across to the island, a style of boat that dates back to 1590 here!

Day 7 – Travel to Croatia

Leaving Slovenia, we travel to the Rabac area in Croatia, stopping en-route at the remarkable Postonja Cave. We join the world’s first railway in an underground cave for a unique journey through 14 miles of stunning ice formations, developed across centuries. By foot, we then meander through pathways and tunnels, exploring extraordinarily shaped natural columns and pillars. Watch the steady dripping of water along the dazzling white curves of the stalagmite called ‘Brilliant’ and see the Concert Hall, the largest inside a cave system where live performances are regularly held, before re-joining the train. A memorable experience to savour!

Day 8 – Pula

Today we discover the history and architecture of the seafront city of Pula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Take a walk along its scenic harbour to enjoy the view of the sparkling Adriatic coast and learn about the Roman influence on the city’s history while we wander among ancient ruins with our local guide. The highlight SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First & last night on a bed & breakfast basis in France (last night with a light evening meal)

y Additional overnight stay on outward & return journey on a half-board basis in France/Germany/Italy

y 4 nights

is undoubtedly Pula Arena, the 6th largest Roman Colosseum in the world, with its magnificent stone walls, terraced seating and underground network of tunnels and rooms where animals and gladiators awaited their fights. Afterwards, be sure to pick up a souvenir such as local olive oil in one of the little shops before sitting back with a coffee in the charming main square.

Day 9 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to the Istrian Peninsula

Why not join a lovely optional excursion and explore the idyllic towns of Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula with a local guide? Visiting the towns of Motovun, Grožnjan and Poreč, we experience breathtaking views of rolling hills, enchanting forests, deep valleys and olive groves, scattered with solitary forts and church towers, and stretching out all the way to the sea.

Learn about the rich history of each town while wandering among ancient Roman ruins, Gothic churches and Baroque-style villas and be charmed by the medieval towers, soaring walls and pretty squares filled with tiny cafés, restaurants, galleries and artisanal boutiques.

Day 10 – Rovinj

After breakfast, we head to the picturesque and romantic town of Rovinj on the Istrian Peninsula, once part of the Venetian Empire. As we stroll along the cobbled streets to the azure waters of the bustling old harbour, peppered with fishing boats, small ferries and traditional batana boats, it’s easy to see why this is such a charming destination. You may like to visit the Church of St. Euphemia, a favourite gathering place for artists from around the world, while the Old Town is well worth exploring, with its pastel-coloured buildings, hidden alleyways and quaint boutiques.

guided city

area such as the Narcis, Hedera or Mimosa-Lido Palace. All rooms are en suite and other facilities include a bar and restaurant.

Hotel accessibility information Your hotel will be confirmed approximately 3 weeks before departure, therefore we cannot guarantee that the hotels will have a lift and/or ground floor rooms and may be unsuitable for those with limited mobility. Single supplement £450

Southern Europe by coach

Rovinj

Adriatic Sea

CORSICA

CROATIA

Rabac SLOVENIA Celje Ljubljana Bled

Pula

Rovinj

Rabac

Ljubljana

Pula

Lake Bled

Worldwide & Europe

“ Crete was excellent, the Minos hotel was lovely and comfortable!

- William B, Trustpilot “

From Crete’s timeless beauty to the sunlit coastlines of Cyprus, Croatia and the Greek islands, each journey stirs the soul and awakens the senses. Travel further to the spice-scented markets of Goa, the golden sands of Sri Lanka or the emerald lagoons of the Seychelles. Whether you’re chasing sunsets or uncovering ancient stories, every worldwide escape is rich in

- William B, Trustpilot

Jewels of Crete

Journey to the birthplace of Zeus and the Minoan civilisation on this epic all-inclusive holiday to Crete! An island known for its diverse landscapes from stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters to rugged mountains and lush valleys, Crete offers a unique blend of natural wonders and ancient history. We explore archaeological sites such as the Palace of Knossos, the city of Heraklion and more, all while discovering the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine on offer. From adventure and relaxation to unearthing an ancient civilisation, the enchanting island of Crete has something for everyone.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

We fly to Crete and transfer to the Minos Hotel, where we spend the next ten nights.

Day 2 – Heraklion & Knossos Palace

We start the day with a tour of Heraklion, the capital of Crete and one of the island’s most popular cities. This is a city full of ancient history, being home to many civilizations including the Mycenaeans, Romans, Venetians and Ottomans. Traces of these cultures can be found in the fortified Venetian walls and the Valide Mosque. There is so much to see and enjoy, from the vibrant town centre and the modern Daidalo street, named after the legend of Daedalus, the craftsman behind the Labyrinth, to Lion Square with the Morosini Fountain.

Next, we visit Knossos, a Minoan Palace, one of the most famous sites on the island. The palace was home to the legendary King Minos who constructed a large labyrinth to hold the Minotaur. Knossos is steeped in myth and legend, as written by Homer in his Odyssey “Among their cities is the great city of Knossos, where Minos reigned when nine years old, he that held converse with great Zeus.”

Day 3 – Day at Leisure

Enjoy a relaxing day at leisure in Rethymno.

Stroll along the charming harbour, unwind on the beach or simply enjoy the Minos Hotel’s welcoming hospitality and poolside serenity.

GOING SOLO DEPARTURES ONLY

Day 3 – Arkadi Monastery & Margarites

The Arkadi Monastery is a historical landmark known for its stunning Venetian architecture and its significant role in the Cretan resistance during the Ottoman era. Surrounded by lush landscapes, the monastery is a serene haven that offers visitors a glimpse into Crete’s rich cultural and religious history.

Afterwards, we visit Margarites, a charming village celebrated for its traditional pottery-making heritage. Nestled amidst rolling hills, the village is a vibrant hub of artisans who craft exquisite ceramics using techniques passed down through generations. Walking through its narrow streets, visitors can admire the colourful pottery displayed in local workshops and enjoy the warm hospitality of its residents, making Margarites a delightful addition to the journey.

Day 4 – Chania & Souda Bay

We head to a wonderful destination and a historically very popular one! Many of the ancient civilizations who settled in Crete stopped over in Chania at one time or another. The result? A flourishing town, with a multicultural blend of architecture, culinary delights and cultural legacy.

We enjoy a walking tour of Chania Old Town, exploring the narrow alleyways to find some of the trendiest tavernas and souvenir shops, as well as museums. There is much to see in this truly beautiful place, a perfect blend of old and new.

Afterwards, we travel to the coast and Souda Bay. Here we make time to pay our respects to the fallen soldiers of the Second World War with a visit to the Commonwealth War Cemetery. At the entrance, we find the names of the fallen, all 1, 527 soldiers who bravely fought and died at the Battle of Crete.

The brilliant archaeologist John Pendlebury is also buried here, the curator of Knossos from 1930 to 1934, who joined the British Intelligence Service to return to Crete and organise the Resistance when World War Two started.

Day 5 – Day at leisure

Spend the day as you wish in Rethymno, enjoy the local sights or relax at the resort.

Day 6 – Lassithi Plateau

Today we are treated to a trip to the largest mountain plain in Crete. At an altitude of 850m, the Lasithi Plateau runs some 11kn east-west and 6km north-south. On the plateau, we are treated to a breathtaking view of green fields dotted with thousands of small windmills, used for irrigation until a few years ago.

We visit some of the traditional villages on the Plateau such as Krasi, Tzermiado and Ano Kera.

The area has been inhabited for thousands of years and the Dictean cave above Psychro is where, according to Greek legends, Zeus, the Olympian God of Gods was born.

Day 7 – Day at leisure

Spend the day as you wish in Rethymno, enjoy the local sights or relax at the resort.

Day 8 – Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos

If you are a first-time visitor to Crete, a trip to Spinalonga is a must. This tiny island in Elounda Bay has enough history to fill a book itself - it has played its role within Crete from ancient times to modern times. Made famous once more recently by Victoria Hislop and her book The Island. After spending time here, we head to Agios Nikolaos or St Nicolas in English for a chance to wander the streets of this popular destination.

Day 9 – Day at leisure or Chrysoulas

Traditional Cretan Cooking*

Our optional excursion invites you to experience Chrysoulas Traditional Cretan Cooking, a delightful journey into the heart of Cretan culinary traditions. Under the guidance of Chrysoula, a skilled local chef, you will learn how to prepare authentic dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The session combines handson cooking with fascinating insights into the history and culture behind each recipe, ensuring a truly immersive experience.

Day 10 – Day at leisure

Today is yours to enjoy as you wish. Perhaps browse Rethymno’s shops, sip coffee in a local square or unwind at the Minos Hotel with a dip in the pool.

Day 11

We check out of our hotel and transfer to the airport for our flight home.

Arkadi Lasithi Plateau

Heraklion Knossos Chania Souda Bay

Rethymno

Knossos Palace

Spinalonga

Chania

Rethymno

GOING

Jewels of the the Greek Islands

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind Greek island-hopping adventure, undoubtedly the best way to discover the enchanting jewels of the Aegean. While we stay in two Dodecanese gems of pretty Rhodes and Leros, our scenic inter-island ferry takes in stunning views of even more beautiful islands scattered across the sparkling sea; Symi, Kos and Kalymnos. With a fantastic excursion programme and a specially-designed all-inclusive basis for our customers, everything is taken care of on this exclusive Greek escape.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

We fly to Rhodes and transfer to the Sun Beach Hotel, where we spend the next three nights.

Day 2 – Rhodes Town

We take a trip into pretty Rhodes Town, with a rich history that stretches back to 408BC and dominated by a sun-weathered, centuries-old castle. Our tour includes a stroll through the spectacular UNESCO-listed Old Town, where mosaics of different influences are on display within the double ring of ancient city walls, resulting in a tangle of storied lanes dotted with relics of the Classical, Ottoman and Italian eras. Along the way, we learn about tales of the island’s past such as the siege of Suleiman the Magnificent and the knights of Saint John, a religious and military order who once played a crucial role on Rhodes. We also spend some time at the vibrant bazaar and take a drive through the delightful Mandraki Harbour, surrounded by early 1900 buildings, a medieval tower and three famous windmills.

Day 3 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Lindos

Take a trip to the charming village of Lindos, one of the real treasures of the island and indeed Greece as a whole. Here, an ancient Acropolis dating back to the 6th century BC perches atop a picturesque hill, standing proudly over the Cycladic white-washed houses stacked like sugar cubes and the sparkling turquoise waters below. The village itself is a lovely place for a leisurely wander to discover local life, with cobbled streets dotted with little shops selling honey, olives and lace. Another pretty spot is St Paul’ Bay, which offers a unique vantage point to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding harbours and coastline.

Please note: a visit to the acropolis itself is not included due to the lack of protective railbars and 303 slippery steps. You may choose to visit and pay the entrance fee under your own responsibility.

Day 4 – Travel to Leros

After checking out of our Rhodes hotel, we take a boat trip to stunning island of Leros. Along the way, we approach several of the Aegean’s jewels, including

spectacular Symi, Kos, the birthplace of Hippocrates, and Kalymnos, known as the sponge driver’s island. After we disembark in Leros, we check into the Crithoni Paradise Hotel, where we stay for 6 nights. Please note: there is no time to disembark in Symi, Kos or Kalymnos.

Day 5 – Leros Island

A tour of the beautiful island of Leros Island awaits today, characterised by lush landscapes and protected harbours. We take in historical sites such as the Franco-Byzantine fort and imposing Castle of the Virgin Mary on Mount Kasteli, plus the unique Leros War Museum, housed in a 1930s mountain tunnel built by the Italians as an ammunition depot. We also have time in the charming main port of Lakki, pay our respects at the Second World War British Cemetery and visit one of the most iconic symbols of the Dodecanese islands, the whitewashed Agios Isidoros chapel, built on a rock in the pretty cove of Gourna.

Day 6 – Day at lesiure

Free time to relax around the pool, enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the local resort area.

Day 7 – Local produce of Leros

We are treated to a delicious tasting of local produce of Leros island, where its agricultural highlights include olives and olive oil, figs, citrus fruits and vegetables. We sample several of these delights along with some authentic wine.

Day 8-9 – Days at leisure

Day 10 – Return to Rhodes

Today we catch our return ferry, enjoying the breathtaking vistas before we disembark and check back into the Sun Beach Hotel.

Day 11 – Rural Villages

On this full-day trip we venture into the heart of the island to learn more about traditional Greek life, meandering through verdant forests and pretty mountains to three quaint villages and two striking places of natural beauty. Highlights include a 15thcentury Byzantine chapel and the Folklore Museum of Apollonia, home to traditional local costumes, agricultural tools, household items, weapons, newspaper archives, pottery, embroidery and other symbols of local heritage. We also learn the secrets of Greek philosophy, become familiar with original Greek humour and have the opportunity to taste some authentic wine and delicious food.

Day 12 – Day at leisure or ptional excursion to Symi*

After admiring Symi aboard our scenic ferry crossings, today is the perfect chance to retrace our steps and disembark on the stunning island! The harbour here is arguably the prettiest in the Aegean, where colourful villas and striking architecture meets crystal clear waters

and forms the capital of the island, Yialos. As well as plenty of time here, the full-day trip also includes a visit to the 18th-century Monastery of Archangel Michael (the island’s patron saint and the Dodecanese guardian of sailors) in the pretty village of Panormitis.

Day 13 – Panoramic Rhodes

We embark on a panoramic tour of Rhodes, taking in picture-perfect scenery on the way to the ancient spa centre of Kalithea. It’s no surprise that this area is popular with location scouts, with the comedic Escape to Athena and Agatha Christie’s Triangle at Rhodes being partly filmed here. The island was also the setting for one of Hollywood’s greatest war films, The Guns of Navarone!

Day 14 – Day at lesiure

Day 15

We check out of our hotel and transfer to the airport for our flight home. SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return flights to Rhodes Airport taxes & luggage allowance (one piece

(double/twin

Jewels of Croatia

Excursions to Trogir, Split, Vrboska, Tucepi & Omiš

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Croatia, a Mediterranean paradise boasting stunning scenery, azure-blue waters, ancient towns, palm-lined squares, and magnificent forests with rushing waterfalls. Join us on an all-inclusive two-week holiday as we delve into Croatia’s rich history and discover the awe-inspiring scenery at multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites and enjoy our excursion programme staying in stunning locations, including the island of Hvar.

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

We fly to Split and transfer to the Hotel Medena, close to Trogir, where we spend the next four nights.

Day 2 – Trogir

After breakfast, we spend the morning exploring nearby Trogir, a picturesque town that sits on a small island and is known for its charming mix of Renaissance and baroque buildings. The town centre’s striking Venetian architecture has seen it be recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making Trogir a must-see destination that can be easily explored on foot. Later, we enjoy a leisurely afternoon at our hotel.

Day 3 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Šibenik & Krka Waterfalls*

Our optional excursion takes us to Krka National Park, one of the most famous and popular natural wonders in the entire Balkans, an area barely spoilt by mankind. The National Park features natural trails, workshops, exhibits, and watermills. The Skradinski Buk Waterfall is the most famous in the Krka National Park, standing at 46 meters and cascading down 17 steps.

Afterwards, we stop at Šibenik, a historic town on the river Krka, to see the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James and St. Michael’s Castle.

Day 4 – Day at leisure

Free time to relax around the pool, enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the local resort area.

Day 5 – Split & Hvar Island

We start the day with a guided walking tour of Split, the second largest city in Croatia. The Old Town is full of historic charm and boasts medieval streets, cobblestone corners, stunning promenades, and baroque monuments. During our tour, we explore some of the most iconic sights in the city, including the UNESCO-protected palace of the great emperor Diocletian, the mausoleum (now an impressive cathedral), the medieval Venetian castle, and more.

Later we take a scenic ferry ride to Hvar Island, our base for the next six nights, where we stay at the Aminess Younique Senses Resort in Vrboska.

Day 6 – Day at leisure

Free time to relax around the pool, enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the local resort area.

Day 7 – Hvar Island Tour

We take a guided tour of Hvar – known as one of the top 10 most beautiful islands in the world! We explore the medieval town of Stari Grad, with its historic buildings, terracotta roofs and charming harbourside, as well as the Dominican Monastery of St Peter Martyr, established in 1482. There is plenty to see, including beautiful blooms in the cloister garden and Tintoretto’s stunning 16th-century painting, Lamentation of Christ plus unique treasures in the little museum, from fossils to Roman coins.

Day 8 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Korcula Island*

On our optional excursion, we enjoy a catamaran ride to Korčula which boasts one of the most beautiful old towns in Dalmatia. Often called ‘Little Dubrovnik’ because of its fortress-like appearance, Korčula old town is still surrounded by its 13th-century fortifications, built by the Venetians. This island is known as the birthplace of the famous sailor and explorer Marco Polo.

Day 9 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Tomić Winery

We take a short ride to Jelsa in the southern part of Hvar Island for a visit to Tomić Winery, considered to be one of the best wineries on the island. The wines produced here are considered to be of a very high quality due to the island’s unique microclimate.

Day 10 – Day at leisure

Free time to relax around the pool, enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the local resort area.

Day 11 – Day at leisure or optional excursion

Heritage and Flavours of Hvar*

Our optional excursion takes us to a small village called Vrisnik in the southern part of the island. Here we sample local delicacies and the award-winning sweet treat, paprenjok, a part of Croatia’s cultural heritage. Afterwards, we enjoy free time exploring the picturesque village of Jelsa.

Day 12 – Tucepi

This morning we say a fond farewell to Hvar and take the ferry back to Split. From here, we journey to Tucepi, where we stay for the next three nights at the Bluesun Neptun Hotel.

Day 13 – Omiš

We travel to Omiš a small town at the mouth of the emerald-green Cetina River. Here there be pirates! Or there used to be, at least. The town was once home to the Pirates of Omiš in the 13th and 14th centuries, who used Sagittae, very fast boats, to raid traders along the Adriatic coast. They would then retreat into the Cetina River where larger ships could not follow them. Nowadays, Omiš is a popular tourist destination and the Old Town is dotted with historical landmarks such as the fortress Mirabella, a 13th-century edifice. Another place worth exploring is the Ffortress Starigrad, located at the mountain peak behind the Old Town.

Day 14 – Day at leisure or optional excursion to Dubrovnik*

On our last optional excursion of the holiday, we visit Dubrovnik in the far south of Croatia. This old city is known for its red roofs that contrast beautifully with the azure waters of the Adriatic. It’s included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List due to its historically significant old town, which features stunning medieval architecture. Explore the beautiful streets or pay a visit to the filming location used for King’s Landing on the popular TV series, Game of Thrones

Day 15

We check out of our hotel and transfer to Split airport for our flight home.

Hotel Medina, Trogir JG4 Close to Trogir, the Hotel Medena is well-situated for

and

of the most

pebble

include an

air-conditioned

restaurant, aperitif bar and pizzeria. Sports facilities include

courts, handball and basketball courts plus mini-golf and more. All meals are buffet style. Hotel accessibility information Lift to all floors. Accessible entrance. Accessible rooms are available upon request. Bluesun Neptun Hotel, Tučepi JG3+ The newly renovated Bluesun Neptun Hotel in Tučepi is located on the beachfront and is a short distance from the town centre. The hotel offers outdoor pools, pool bars and a restaurant. All rooms are en suite with a private balcony, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a hairdryer and direct dial telephone.

Hotel accessibility information Accessible entrance. Accessible rooms are available upon request.

Aminess Younique Senses Resort, Vrboska JG3+

Just 50 metres from the sea, the Labranda Senses

Zastražišće

Island Dubrovnik

Hvar Trogir

Hotel Medina, Trogir

Bluesun Neptun Hotel, Tučepi

Omiš

Aminess Younique Senses Resort, Vrboska

Paphos Gardens Holiday Resort

JG3+ Paphos, Cyprus

The Paphos Gardens Holiday Resort offers an affordable stay in a prime location, just a short distance from the lively resort of Kato, Paphos. The en-suite rooms provide a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring. Paphos Gardens is ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway with easy access to the beach and local area. AIRPORTS, DATES & PRICES

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return flights to Paphos

y Airport taxes & luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)

y Airport transfers to & from the hotel

y All-inclusive at the Paphos Gardens

Holiday Resort, Paphos (JG3+ rating):

y All meals

y Welcome drink & dinner

y Selection of local wines, beers, spirits, soft drinks & water (10:15am-11pm)

y Cocktail party

Fruit & water in rooms on arrival

y Porterage

y Excursion to Episkopi

y Additional excursions to Kourion, Kolossi & Omodos on 15, 22 and 29 day holidays

y Guided tour of a winery & wine tasting on 15, 22 and 29 day holidays

y Guided city tour of Paphos

y Services of a visiting resort representative (minimum once per week)

Optional excursions are available to book in resort from your experienced National appointed representative.

Single supplement from £150

y Return flights to Larnaca

y Airport taxes & luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)

y Airport transfers to & from the hotel

y All-inclusive at the Park Beach

Contrasts of Goa

South Goa, enjoy peaceful beaches, quiet fishing villages, and lush landscapes. Our journey splits time between two Radisson hotels: Radisson Hotel Goa, Candolim in the north and Radisson Blu Hotel Goa, Cavelossim in the south. Enjoy curated excursions like a Latin Quarter Food Trail, heritage walks and more.

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS

Latin Quarter Food Trail

Partake in a gastronomical journey, exploring the Latin influence on Goan cuisine, through a series of signature preparations, served at heritage establishments, heritage homes and contemporary cafés.

Old Goa Heritage Walk & Divar Island

On our heritage trail, discover the history of Old Goa and the multicultural heritage of Divar Island. Explore the former Portuguese capital of Velha Goa on a heritage walk and learn more about the fascinating history of Goa’s former Portuguese empire.

Villages & Legends of South Goa

Discover the charm and culture of South Goa’s picturesque villages, including Casualim, Cuelim, Arossim and Velsao, on this enriching cultural journey. We begin with a grand introduction at the historic St. Thomas Church, followed by a serene stop at the stunning Velsao Beach, where we learn about the traditional fishing practices that sustain the local community.

Margao & Chandor: a Cultural & Culinary Escape Delve into the heart of South Goa on this immersive full-day tour, blending rich history, vibrant culture and authentic cuisine. We start with a flavourful culinary trail through Margao’s historic Comba neighbourhood, savouring traditional Goan dishes, learning the art of local baking and weaving through its vibrant markets. After lunch, we make our way to the pretty village of Chandor, where tales of ancient dynasties, captivating legends such as the tale of the Queen’s Curse and colonial-era grandeur come to life.

Beach Hotel in Limassol boasts fantastic amenities and direct access to the beachfront promenade and array of local restaurants and bars. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, sun terrace, an indoor buffet restaurant specialising in Cypriot and international cuisine, an open-air restaurant and a poolside

Radisson Hotel Goa, Candolim JG4

The Radisson Hotel Goa, Candolim offers a stylish retreat in the vibrant heart of North Goa. Overlooking the golden sands of Candolim Beach,. Guests enjoy elegantly appointed rooms with stunning sea views and state-ofthe-art amenities. The property features an outdoor pool, gourmet dining options serving both international and local cuisine and a relaxed yet chic ambiance.

Radisson Blu Resort, Cavelossim JG4+

The upscale Radisson Blu Resort offers lovely surroundings to relax in, blending colourful Goan architecture and Portuguese culture with beautiful scenery and friendly service. Just 500m away, the serene Cavelossim Beach (the fifth best beach in India) is within walking distance, famous for its long stretch of golden sands and azure waters.

Cavelossim

Margao, Goa

Radisson Candolim

Candolim, North Goa

Radisson Candolim is known for its impeccable service and modern amenities, offers offering a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a serene swimming pool and a well-equipped fitness centre. LOCATION

INCLUSIVE

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return flights to Goa

y Airport taxes & luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)

y Airport transfers to & from the hotel

y All-inclusive at the Radisson Candolim, North Goa (JG4 rating):

y All meals

y Selection of local branded alcoholic drinks, wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks & juices (11am-10:30pm)

y Daily tea & coffee (9am-11pm)

y Welcome drink & dinner

y Fruit & water in rooms on arrival

y Porterage

y Cookery demonstration at the hotel once per week

y Drinks reception

y Entertainment

y Excursion to the Latin Quarter Food Trail

y Additional excursions to Old Goa (includes heritage walk) & Divar Island & Saligao

Village, Fort Aguada Port & Jail Complex

Night Walk on 16, 23 and 30 day holidays

y Services of a visiting resort representative (minimum once per week)

CAMERA-ALT Optional excursions are available to book in resort from your experienced National appointed representative.

Single supplement from £540

(additional charges may apply).

Radisson Candolim

Tangerine Beach Hotel

Kalutara, Sri Lanka

Staying by Kalutara Beach in the idyllic setting of the Tangerine Beach Hotel, enjoy the laid-back lifestyle on offer to the backdrop of lightly swaying palm trees and blue sky overhead. With a range of included excursions your holiday offers the best of Sri Lankan history and culture, from the hustle and bustle of a local fishing market to the calming atmosphere inside the walls of an ancient temple. Sri Lanka is the perfect long-haul destination, both welcoming and friendly and full of natural wonders to behold.

LOCATION

The Tangerine Beach Hotel is situated in Kalutara, a town on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Kalutara is known for its serene beaches and cultural heritage. With its peaceful atmosphere and historical sites like the Kalutara Buddhist Temple and its bustling local markets, it’s a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.

ACCOMMODATION

The 179 comfortable en-suite rooms with private balconies or terraces offer sea-facing or garden views. All rooms are well-equipped with air-conditioning, satellite TV, phone, mini fridge, tea and coffee-making facilities, ceiling fan, safe and a hairdryer.

Main facilities include a spacious outdoor swimming pool, separate children’s pool, pool bar, restaurant, mini shopping arcade, and a fully equipped gym and the Ayurveda Spa (treatments and salon at extra charge). Other hotel facilities include a tennis, squash and badminton court, mini golf, table tennis and billiards. On the beach, guests can enjoy yoga and meditation well-being classes. In the evening, the hotel offers regular entertainment such as live bands and cultural shows.

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS

Kalutara Temple

The majestic Kalutara Temple can be seen from the banks of the Kalu River. The Stupa, or Buddhist shrine as it is called, is unmissable. The historic Buddhist temple is one of the most iconic sights in Sri Lanka and a revered place of worship. Inside we find wonderful religious murals and statues which offer cultural insight into Buddha’s way of life.

Home & Garden of Bevis Bawa

The home and garden of Bevis Bawa, known as The Garden at Brief is a stunning location, one that has played host to some acting legends over the years, such as Sir Laurence Olivier, Vivian Leigh and Agatha Christie. Bevis Bawa was born in Columbo in 1909. A fascinating man with a passion for art and landscaping, he transferred this family estate into this beautiful garden. Expect to see a wide variety of tropical plants, lush vegetation, pretty ponds and a number of sculptures all laid out over five acres.

Exploring the South

An exciting day in the South awaits as we set out to explore the very heart of Sri Lanka. We start our day with an enchanting boat ride on the Madu River. A river safari that promises adventure, from seeing wildlife and fauna to witnessing local trades along the river, such as prawn farms to stilt shops. We discover hidden gems along our route such as Cinnamon Island where the ancient tradition of cinnamon cultivation takes place and the Kothduwa Temple.

We continue our exploration of the south with a tour of Galle Dutch Fort. Prepare to be transported back in time with a visit to this well-preserved colonial fortress. A UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Bay of Galle; the fortress was first built by the Portuguese in 1588 before changing to Dutch hands in the 17th century. Thanks to the Dutch’s extensive reconstruction work the temple has stood the test of time. Iconic landmarks dotted amidst striking palm trees, there are many architectural wonders to behold including the Galle Lighthouse, Galle Clocktower and the Groote Kerk. Afterwards, we return to our hotel via the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project, a pioneering project dedicated to the safeguard and conservation of endangered turtle species.

Kalutara Fish Market

Today we travel to the fish market, accompanied by the hotel chef. Here we have the chance to witness local fishermen bring in their fresh catch at the bustling market which provides a unique and authentic experience of the primary trade in the region. The market comes alive with the sights and sounds of vendors auctioning off their products, creating a vibrant and frenetic atmosphere that truly captures the essence of coastal livelihoods in Sri Lanka. On return to the hotel, we enjoy a cooking demonstration by the hotel chef with the fresh fish ingredients.

Tangerine Beach Hotel

Seychelles Islands Voyager

Scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles offer the kind of scenery sun seekers dream of: expansive blue skies, turquoise waters and powdery white sands fringed by granite rocks and palm trees, where turtles feel so unthreatened that they come ashore in daylight. On this exciting long-haul getaway, enjoy an island-hopping adventure without the planning, cruising between a number of breathtaking spots and exploring paradise by Mega Yacht. Snorkel through a stunning underwater world, journey into tropical forests, look out for unique wildlife and indigenous birds, experience a BBQ on a deserted beach and a cultural Creole evening, soak up magical sunset sailings and relax onboard M/Y Pegasos, a luxurious home away from home with spectacular views in every direction. It’s guaranteed to be a trip of a lifetime, with memories staying with you long after departing the Seychelles’ beautiful shores!

YOUR HOLIDAY

Day 1

Sit back and enjoy the overnight flight to the Seychelles, with a change at Addis Ababa Bole airport.

Day 2

We arrive in the Seychelles and transfer to Mahé’s cruise port, where we join the M/Y Pegasos mega yacht. After a welcome from the crew (?) and some time to settle in, we set sail for our first destination, St Anne Island. The largest of the eight islands in the stunning Ste. Anne Marine National Park, this was the site of the first French settlement in 1770 and served as a base for the Royal Marines during the Second World War. Set within sparkling turquoise waters and with a vast array of corals, it’s a fantastic snorkelling spot – you may be lucky enough to see green turtles feeding on the huge expanse of seagrass meadows here.

Day 3

We leave St Anne Island early in the morning to reach Curieuse, an uninhabited granitic island which was once a leper colony and is now home to giant tortoises and indigenous black parrots. Our walking excursion with a park guide takes in the amazing giant tortoise farm and along mangrove forests, before we later return to the beach for a BBQ under the trees. The afternoon provides the perfect chance to enjoy some sea activities or simply relax on the unspoilt shores.

Day 4

In the morning we sail for Cousin Island, a thriving nature reserve since 1968 and a real paradise for birdlife, with several nesting beaches for turtles too. We take a trip to the Bird Sanctuary, which is in the care Bird Life International, and learn that an incredible quarter million birds breed on Cousin! Later in the afternoon we reach Anse Lazio in Praslin, renowned as one of the most beautiful

beaches in the world. The time is yours to spend as you please, from water sports and snorkelling to sunbathing and reading, before heading back to the ship for the evening.

Day 5

We leave for Aride today, home to the Wright’s gardenia, found nowhere else on earth, and to bird species such as the Audubon’s shearwater and the Seychelles warbler. Be sure to look out for them while the island’s rangers lead us all the way to the top of the island, where the views are simply spectacular. At noon, we continue to the stunning St Pierre Island for a three-hour snorkelling and swimming stop before a sunset sail to Baie St Anne, where we enjoy a cultural Creole evening.

Please note: Aride Island is often closed for a visit during South East Trade winds (from May to September). It may also close at short notice during strong surf.

Day 6

There is an optional tour on offer today to the palm forest Vallée de Mai, the verdant heart of Praslin island and often described as the Garden of Eden. It’s one of the world’s smallest UNESCO World Heritage Sites and contains many unique species, thanks to millions of years of isolation.

In the afternoon, we either sail to Félicité or Grand Soeur, both spectacular spots for snorkelling, before continuing to La Digue, the third most populated island of the Seychelles.

Day 7

Join an optional excursion in La Digue, the most photographed corner of the Seychelles, where

This morning we take a short guided tour around the island and make the most of our last opportunity for a swim in the crystal-clear waters. Afterwards, a BBQ awaits on deck before we leave Moyenne Island for Mahé,’s Victoria port in the afternoon. This evening we

Day 9

St Pierre

Mahe

River Cruising

Slow down and soak up the gentle rhythm of river cruising, where each day brings breathtaking new vistas, from the imperial elegance of Vienna and Budapest along the Danube to the storybook towns of Basel, Speyer and beyond on the Southern Rhine. With fully escorted, all-inclusive experiences, these journeys offer a perfect blend of effortless relaxation and unforgettable discovery.

YourShipsA-ROSA

and even a putting green. The comfortable outside-facing cabins feature a shower/WC, safe, air-conditioning, TV, hairdryer and telephone. There is a restaurant, plus a panoramic lounge with bar and dance floor.

A-ROSA BELLA

A-ROSA BELLA carries around 200 passengers and offers plenty for those seeking a relaxing cruise. You can expect two restaurants, two lounges, two bars, shuffleboard, putting green, giant chess board, a spacious sun deck with recliners and sunshades, heated outdoor pool and a relaxing spa with panoramic saunas, a gym, massage showers and a relaxation area (spa treatments are available at an extra cost). The comfortable cabins are elegantly designed and offer airconditioning, a TV, hairdryer, telephone, safe and shower/WC.

A-ROSA VIVA

Accommodating up to 202 passengers, A-ROSA VIVA offers a relaxing and flexible way to explore the Rhine. The comfortable outside-facing cabins feature a private bathroom with shower, bathrobe, TV and hairdryer. Main deck cabins have a picture window, whilst upper decks have Juliette balconies. The spacious sun deck boasts a heated Jacuzzi, sun loungers, a putting green, shuffleboard and a giant chess board. The restaurant offers all meals, either served or gourmet buffet dining, and there’s also the chance to enjoy al fresco dining afternoon tea and snacks.

With

safe, air-conditioning, TV, hairdryer, telephone. There is a restaurant, plus a panoramic lounge with bar and dance floor. We can also make the most of the spa, gym and relaxation areas during our time on board (spa treatments at extra cost).

Cruising the Seine - from Paris to Honfleur

Set sail from Paris on a spectacular cruise along the River Seine and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery that inspired renowned artists. Our A-ROSA cruise takes us to charming Rouen, Les Andelys, Caudebec-en-Caux, Monet’s garden and more: à bientôt!

YOUR CRUISE

Day 1

We begin our journey by taking the ferry to Calais and travelling to St. Denis, where we board the A-ROSA VIVA for a seven-night cruise. This evening, we enjoy a welcome dinner on board.

Day 2 – Rouen

Our adventure takes us along the Seine to Rouen, Normandy’s capital. Known as ‘The Gothic City’, Rouen boasts exquisite medieval architecture, including the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. This 13th-century gothic masterpiece inspired impressionist Claude Monet, who spent two years admiring its façade before entering the cathedral. Today, why not join a guided walking tour to explore the city’s history? Learn about Joan of Arc, whose ashes were scattered in the Seine, and discover how Rouen’s half-timbered buildings and churches were reconstructed after World War II.

Day 3 – Honfleur

Next, we visit Honfleur, nestled at the mouth of the Seine, known for its charming harbour and cosy alleyways. Visit a Calvados shop to sample the local apple brandy before heading to Deauville, a picturesque Normandy village. Here, marvel at magnificent buildings overlooking the Atlantic Ocean during a brief tour.

Day 4 – Caudebec-en-Caux

Our cruise brings us to Caudebec-en-Caux, a tranquil town brimming with French charm. Stroll to the Brottone Bridge or visit the beautifully preserved cathedral, favoured by King Henry IV of France. For maritime enthusiasts, the Museo Seine is a must-see. Alternatively, join a guided tour of the Old Town’s atmospheric alleyways, passing medieval half-timbered houses and cafés, culminating at a viewpoint for a stunning overview.

Day 5 – Les Andelys

Les Andelys, built by King Richard the Lionheart in 1196, is one of the Seine’s most scenic ports. Its hilltop Château Gaillard offers breathtaking views of Petit-Andely and Grand-Andely. Opt for a guided walking tour or visit Château de Vascooueil, renowned for its garden sculptures. Explore Petit Andelys and the St. Savior Church before ascending to Château Gaillard’s ruins for panoramic views of the Seine winding through lush landscapes.

Day 6 – Monet’s Garden at Giverny

In Vernon, we visit Claude Monet’s house and garden in Giverny. This enchanting site, beloved by art and culture enthusiasts, features Monet’s personal artefacts and the iconic lily pond that inspired one of his most famous paintings.

Day 7 – Paris

Sailing from Vernon, we arrive in Paris for a farewell dinner on board. Consider an optional Paris by night tour to see the city illuminated in evening twilight, a stark contrast to its daytime bustle.

Day 8 – Disembarkation in St. Denis, Palace of Versailles & Paris

After breakfast, we disembark in St. Denis and explore Paris on a city tour. Highlights include the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral and more. Visit the Palace of Versailles, a Baroque masterpiece transformed by King Louis XIV. Its gardens, opulent chambers, and rich history showcase the grandeur of French royal power.

Later, we head to Rueil-Malmaison to check into our hotel for dinner.

Day 9 – Day at Leisure

Day 10 – Ferry home from Calais

We conclude our journey by travelling to Calais for the return ferry home, stopping for lunch at your leisure in Lille. FROM ONLY £1,999

a cruise escort

CAMERA-ALT Optional Paris by night tour (£25pp)

Please note: there is no seating plan or dress code; free table times ensure a relaxed atmosphere among guests.

YOUR ACCOMMADATION A-ROSA VIVA

Price shown is based on two people sharing an outside cabin with

Cabin upgrades available (situated on higher decks and complete with Juliette balconies to enjoy watching the delightful riverscapes pass by). Subject to availability.

Les Andelys

A-ROSA ALVA

Rüdesheim am

Strasbourg

Cruising the Southern Rhine - from Speyer to Basel

Cruise the Southern Rhine on the elegant A-ROSA CLEA, with exclusive National excursions to Speyer, Strasbourg, Obernai, Basel, Breisach and Mainz. Discover cathedrals, villages and wine cellars, plus time to relax on board with like-minded travellers.

YOUR CRUISE

Day 1

We begin our journey with a ferry to Calais, continuing onwards to Cologne where we check into our hotel for an overnight stay on a half-board basis.

Day 2 – Frankfurt

The next day, we drive along the Rhine towards Frankfurt, stopping at Rüdesheim am Rhine for lunch at your leisure. Upon arrival in Frankfurt, we board the A-ROSA CLEA to embark on our seven-day cruise.

Day 3 – Discover Speyer

Our first stop is Speyer, arriving late morning. Here, we explore one of Germany’s oldest cities on a guided walking tour. We marvel at its imperial history, strolling beneath the twin towers of the UNESCO-listed Romanesque cathedral. Meandering through charming lanes, we discover the historic Jewish quarter and have time to browse local shops or relax in a café. Later, we return to the ship as the crew prepares for our onward journey to Strasbourg.

Day 4 – Strasbourg & Obernai

Strasbourg, the capital of the Grand Est region, straddles the French-German border, its river marking the divide. A guided tour unveils the charm of the Old Town, with timber-framed houses, winding alleys, and the flower-lined canals of Petite France. We marvel at the Gothic cathedral before continuing to Obernai. Here, we enjoy more guided insights and free time to explore its medieval streets.

Day 5 – Day at Leisure

We spend a relaxed morning aboard the A-ROSA CLEA, moored in Strasbourg until midday. This afternoon, as the ship sails south towards Basel, we unwind and take in the Rhine’s scenery—vineyards, forested hills, and sleepy villages. Enjoy the spa, lounge, or sun deck, embracing the slower pace of river cruising.

Day 6 – Discover Basel

In Basel, Switzerland’s cultural capital, a guided city tour introduces us to its striking red sandstone Town Hall and medieval Old Town and the Rhine-spanning bridges and bold architecture of its modern art museums. After the tour, we enjoy leisure time before the ship departs late afternoon.

Day 7 – Geldermann Sparkling Wine

Early in Breisach, we enjoy a gentle morning stroll with our tour manager to the Geldermann cellar, nestled beneath the historic hilltop. Here, we uncover the secrets of méthode champenoise sparkling wine production, complete with a tasting session. Afterwards, free time allows us to explore Breisach’s cobbled streets, visit the cathedral, or relax with a coffee before rejoining the A-ROSA CLEA for our afternoon departure.

Day 8 – Discover Mainz

In Mainz, we explore the atmospheric Old Town, famous for its wine-growing region and as the birthplace of the printing revolution. Cobblestone lanes wind through colourful half-timbered houses, lively wine bars, and traditional shops. After free time, we rejoin the ship for its afternoon journey to Frankfurt.

Day 9 – Trier

Disembarking in Frankfurt, we begin a scenic drive to Reims, passing through Trier along the Moselle River’s course. After a stop to explore Trier, we continue to Reims for an overnight stay in the heart of Champagne country.

Day 10

On our final day, we depart Reims, travelling north through the French countryside. We pause in Amiens for lunch at your leisure before continuing to Calais for the return ferry home.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel

y Return ferry crossings with included access to Club Lounge

y First & last night in Cologne & Reims

(JG4 rating) on a half board basis

y 7-night round-trip cruise from Frankfurt, Germany on a premium all-inclusive basis:

y Breakfast, lunch & gourmet buffet

y Accompanied by a cruise escort throughout

y Afternoon tea & snacks

y Free room service (drinks only, during bar hours)

y Tea, coffee & water available all day & evening

y Premium drinks (11am-11pm): soft drinks, beers, sparkling wine & a selection of wines, cocktails & long drinks (specialities subject to surcharges)

y Water, bathroom products, bathrobe & slippers

y Free use of all on-board facilities such as sauna

& fitness room

y Use of on-board e-bikes for independent exploration in key locations

y On-board entertainment (includes up to two cultural performances)

y Exclusive excursions for National passengers to Speyer, Strasbourg, Obernai, Basel, Breisach, Geldermann Sparkling Wine & Mainz

y Exclusive guided tours for National passengers

in Speyer, Basel, Strasbourg, Obernai & Mainz

y En-route visits to Cologne, Rüdesheim am Rhine, Frankfurt & Amiens

y Services of a cruise escort

Please note: there is no seating plan or dress code; free table times ensure a relaxed atmosphere among guests.

YOUR ACCOMMADATION

A-ROSA CLEA

Price shown is based on two people sharing an outside cabin on Deck 1 with large port holes.

Cabin upgrades available (situated on higher decks and complete with Juliette balconies to enjoy watching the delightful riverscapes pass by). Subject to availability.

ARROW-UP-FROM-BRACKET Upgrade to a C Grade Cabin from £250

ARROW-UP-FROM-BRACKET Upgrade to a D Grade Cabin from £300

Single cabins on request.

Grand Capitals of the Danube

Experience spectacular capital cities and scenic landscapes on this all-inclusive cruise along the beautiful River Danube, from enthralling Vienna and charming Bratislava to majestic Budapest plus the enchanting Wachau Valley, blanketed with vineyards, hilltop castles and picturesque towns. As well as marvelling at the scenery from the spacious sundeck, the sauna or one of the lounges aboard A-ROSA BELLA, we also take three panoramic tours to admire the cityscapes from a different perspective.

YOUR CRUISE

Day 1

Ferry to Calais and onwards to our hotel, where we stay overnight in France on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 2

After breakfast, we continue to our second overnight hotel, where we stay on a half-board basis.

Day 3

We continue our journey to Passau (stopping en-route for lunch) where we board the A-ROSA BELLA for our six-night Danube cruise.

Day 4 – Vienna, Austria

We arrive in Vienna in the afternoon and then have free time to start exploring this magnificent city. A true highlight of our Danube journey, Vienna dazzles with its grand Baroque palaces and a vibrant cultural scene featuring the renowned State Opera and lively cafés. Be sure to join the included guided walking tour, an insider’s journey through Vienna’s historic streets, iconic landmarks and charming squares, revealing the stories and spirit that make this city so beloved by the Viennese.

Day 5 – Vienna Woods

We head off on a scenic tour of Vienna Woods, a pretty forested area outside Vienna. in the afternoon, enjoy time at leisure or take part on our optional excursion to Schonbrunn Palace.

Day 6 – Day at Leisure

Take today to explore or relax at your leisure.

Day 7 – Budapest, Hungary

We spend the day in Budapest, starting with a guided walking tour of the city to soak up the sights and then time at leisure. ‘Take the waters’ at one of the many popular bathhouses or discover the stunning Castle Hill – with its striking architecture and many turrets, it looks like something straight out of a fairytale.

Day 8 – Bratislava, Slovakia

Located on the left bank of the Danube, Bratislava is the youngest capital city in Europe yet throughout the Old Town, traces of the Austro-Hungarian Empire can be seen. On our included panoramic tour with our cruise escort, we discover this leisurely city of baroque and rococo, palaces and palisades, art and coffee houses and more.

We depart Bratislava mid-afternoon and sail on the delightful Danube through the evening and overnight towards the riverside town of Melk.

Day 9 – Disembarkation in Melk & overnight hotel stay in Germany

We enjoy a real treat for the senses as we experience the famous Wachau Valley between historic Krems and Melk from the deck of our ship. This fascinating river landscape of rolling hills, vineyards and fortresses is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is even the chance to enjoy an optional excursion to Dürnstein and Melk Abbey; one of Europe’s most magnificent baroque buildings that offers a fantastic view over the Danube and the dreamlike landscape of the Wachau. We disembark in Melk and head to our overnight hotel in the Frankfurt area, where a light evening meal is included.

Day 10 – Ferry home

We check out of the hotel and head to Calais for our return ferry home.

walking tour of Vienna

y Services of a cruise escort Please note: there is no seating plan or dress code; free table times ensure a relaxed atmosphere among guests.

YOUR ACCOMMADATION

A-ROSA BELLA

Price shown is based on two people sharing an outside cabin with picture windows.

Cabin upgrades available (situated on higher decks and complete with Juliette balconies to enjoy watching the delightful riverscapes pass by). Subject to availability.

ARROW-UP-FROM-BRACKET Upgrade to a C Grade Cabin from £280 Single cabins on request.

Budapest

Basel

Strasbourg

A-ROSA BELLA

Bratislava

Discovering the Douro

Discover the wonderful Alto-Douro Valley and join us for an immersive seven-night cruise of gastronomic delights, culture and history surrounded by truly spectacular vistas. Beginning in Porto, famed for its colourful merchant houses and splendid Old Town, we follow the famous River Douro as our cruise laces its way across the border between Portugal and Spain; its banks peppered with enchanting vineyards, unspoilt walled villages, peaceful hillsides and sun-drenched terraces crammed with olive groves. This is an enchanting tour of sleepy villages and charming towns, with sumptuous dining experiences and a few culinary and cultural evenings of entertainment thrown in for good measure! There’s also the opportunity to visit the ancient Spanish city of Salamanca, renowned for its sun-lit golden hues, on a delightful optional tour.

YOUR

Day 1

CRUISE

Fly to Porto in Portugal and transfer to the A-ROSA ALVA in Vila Nova de Gaia for the start of our seven-night Douro cruise. We enjoy a welcome dinner on board this evening.

Day 2 – Régua & Pinhão

We depart the city after breakfast and sail to Régua; the largest town on the banks of the Douro in this wine-growing valley. Being such a beautiful place it’s no wonder the Alto Douro region has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. The town played a fundamental role in the production and marketing of port wine, which was transported away by sailing boat from as early as the 18th century.

Take the opportunity to join an excursion to Lamego available from Régua and spend the day visiting one of Portugal’s most famous pilgrimage sites.

Our next stop is the peaceful town of Pinhão. Located in the famous port wine region, in an area where the Douro and its surrounding landscape are at their most picturesque, the town is encircled by enchanting vineyards and the quintas that produce the wine. The town is also famed for its train station covered in blue and white azulejo tiles depicting various scenes of Portuguese life. From Pinhão, visit the nearby Quinta da Avessada for an included tour, wine tasting and local evening dinner at the Quinta.

Day 3 – Vega de Terron

This morning, we enjoy an included port tasting at Quinta da Roeda, famed for its unusual ‘pink port’.

We continue to the Spanish port town of Vega de Terron, which lies on the Portuguese border, surrounded by lush landscapes. Beautifully unspoiled, the town has a charming laid-back atmosphere and boasts a mix of Portuguese and Spanish influences.

The beautiful Chafariz dos Pretos fountain, set in the market square, is the ideal place to relax with a glass of port.

The town also serves as a gateway for excursions to the ancient city of Salamanca, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, dating back to the 13th century. The city is full of intricately carved golden sandstone churches, palaces and plazas, giving it the nickname La Dorada, the golden city, while its historic centre has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 4 – Barca d’Alva

We moor up in Barca d’Alva, a quaint Portuguese river port near the Spanish border. This tranquil town is shadowed by mountains and bordered by terraced vineyards and attractive olive and almond groves. While we are here, take the opportunity to discover Salamanca – nicknamed ‘The Golden City,’ for its ornate pinky-gold sandstone in the sunshine; it is considered one of one of Spain’s most beautiful cities.

Day 5 – Pinhão

There is the option to join a wonderful excursion to Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo; surrounded by almond trees, whose blossom brightens the landscapes, this village is known as the ‘white city’. Visit the ruins of the castle and explore the pretty, narrow streets before we continue our scenic journey, arriving back in Pinhão in the late afternoon.

Day 6 – Régua & Leverinho

We moor up back in Régua in the morning, with free time to explore at leisure. Why not visit one of the area’s iconic wine-making institutions, take a stroll along the pretty riverside or explore the Douro Museum to learn more about the valley’s wine-producing history. The optional excursion to Lamego is definitely recommended; this charming little town is also one of Portugal’s most important pilgrimage sites.

In the evening we arrive in Leverinho, a charming port nestled in the Douro Valley.

Day 7 – Vila Nova de Gaia (Porto)

We arrive back in Vila Nova de Gaia. The day is left free to explore at leisure. Perhaps visit one of the famous port wine lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia or head across to the north bank of the river to Porto.

The gleaming azulejo tiles adorning church walls and townhouse façades are one of the typical sights of Portugal’s second-largest city, with plenty of mesmerising landmarks at every turn. We enjoy a farewell dinner on board this evening.

Day 8

We disembark in Vila Nova de Gaia and transfer to Porto airport for our return flight home.

Porto

A-ROSA ALVA

Porto

A-ROSA ALVA

Pinhão

Barca d’Alva

Pinhão

Coach pickup points & estimated departure times for European holidays

At National Holidays we are committed to offering you the widest possible selection of local pickup points. Simply select your pickup point below, sit back and let us take care of the rest.

For all pickup points in bold no supplement applies. For pickup points marked with  please add £15 per person and for those marked with  please add £30 per person.

Corby 02:30 04:00

Daventry 02:00 - 03:30

Diss 02:00 - 04:30

Downham Market 01:00 02:30

North West England

Dunstable 04:00 - 05:30

Felixstowe 04:30 - 06:00

Gorleston 01:00 - 02:30

Grays 06:30 - 07:00

Great Yarmouth 01:30 - 03:00

Harlow 05:00 06:30

Hatfield (Herts.) 03:30 - 05:00

Hemel Hempstead 04:00 - 05:30

Hertford 03:30 - 05:00

Hunstanton 00:00 01:00

- 01:30

22:30 - 00:00

00:30 - 02:00

Port 23:00 00:30

Services (M6) 23:30 - 01:00

00:00 - 01:30

23:00 - 00:30

00:00 - 01:30

01:00 02:30

00:00 - 01:30

00:00 01:30 Rochdale 00:00 - 01:30

St Helens 23:00 00:30

Stockport 00:00 01:30

Southport 00:00 - 01:30

Warrington 00:00 - 01:30

Widnes 23:30 - 01:00

Wigan 00:00 - 01:30

East of England

Ampthill 04:00 - 05:30

Basildon 05:00 - 06:30

Bedford 03:30 - 05:00

Biggleswade 03:30 05:00

Bishop’s Stortford Birchanger Green

Services (M11) 04:30 06:00

Bourne 02:00 - 03:30

Braintree 03:30 05:00

Bury St Edmunds 02:30 - 04:00

Cambridge 03:30 - 05:00

Chatteris 02:30 - 04:00

Chelmsford 05:00 - 06:30

Cheshunt 05:00 06:30

Clacton-on-Sea 04:30 - 06:00

Colchester 04:00 05:30

Huntingdon 03:30 - 05:00

Ipswich 04:30 - 06:00

Kempston 03:30 - 04:30

King’s Lynn 01:00 - 02:30

Letchworth 03:00 - 04:30

Lowestoft 01:30 - 03:00

Luton 04:00 - 05:30

March 02:30 - 04:00

Newmarket 03:30 - 05:00

Norwich 02:00 - 03:30

Peterborough 02:00 - 03:30

Peterborough Services 02:00 - 03:30

Rayleigh 04:30 - 06:00

Rushden 02:30 – 04:00

Sandy 03:30 - 05:00

South Benfleet 05:00 - 06:30

Southend 05:00 - 06:30

St Albans 04:30 - 06:00

Stamford 01:30 - 03:00

Stanford-le-Hope 04:30 - 06:00

Stevenage 04:30 - 06:00

Sudbury 04:00 - 05:30

Thetford 02:30 - 04:00

Thurrock Services (M25) 06:30 - 07:00

Tilbury 05:00 - 06:30

Watford 04:30 - 06:00

Wellingborough 02:30 - 04:00

Welwyn Garden City 04:30 - 06:00

Wisbech 01:00 - 02:30

The Midlands

Acocks Green 02:00 - 03:30

Banbury 03:00 - 04:30

Birmingham 02:00-03:30

Boston 01:00 - 03:30

Burton-upon-Trent 01:00 - 02:30

Cannock 01:30 - 03:00

Swadlincote 01:00 - 02:30

Tamworth 01:00 - 02:30

Telford 00:00 - 01:30

Wallsend 00:00-01:30

Walsall 01:00 - 02:30

Warwick 02:30 - 04:00

Watford (M1) 03:00 - 04:30

Wellington (Shrops.) 00:00 - 01:30

Wolverhampton 01:00 - 02:30

Woodall Services (M1) 01:30 - 03:00

Worcester 01:30 - 03:00

South East England

Andover 03:00 - 04:30

Ashford 07:00 08:30

Aylesbury 03:30 - 05:00

Banstead 05:30 07:00

Basingstoke 04:00 05:30

Bexhill 05:00 - 06:30

Bicester 03:30 05:00

Bletchley 04:30 - 06:00

Bognor Regis 03:30 05:00

Brighton 04:00 - 05:30

Chesterfield 00:30 - 02:00

Coalville 01:00 - 02:30

Coventry 02:30 - 04:00

Derby 01:00 02:30

Didcot 04:00 - 05:30

Droitwich 01:30 - 03:00

Dudley 01:30 - 03:00

Evesham 02:00 - 03:30

Grantham 01:00 - 02:30

Halesowen 01:00 - 02:30

Hereford 00:30 - 02:00

Hinckley 01:00 - 02:30

Holbeach 01:30 - 03:00

Hopwood Park Services (M42) 02:00 - 03:30

Hucknall 01:30 - 03:00

Kettering 02:30 - 04:00

Kidderminster 01:00 02:30

Kidsgrove 23:30 - 01:00

Leamington Spa 04:00 - 05:30

Ledbury 00:30 02:00

Leek 01:30 - 03:00

Leicester 01:30 - 03:00

Leicester (Fosse Park) 01:30-03:00

Leicester Forest East Services 01:30 - 03:00

Leominster 00:30 - 02:00

Lincoln 01:00 - 02:30

Long Eaton 02:00 - 03:30

Loughborough 01:00 02:30

Louth 01:00 02:30

Mablethorpe 23:30 - 01:00

Malvern 01:30 - 03:00

Mansfield 01:30 - 03:00

Market Harborough 01:30 - 03:00

Melton Mowbray 02:00 - 03:30

Newark 01:30 - 03:00

Newcastle-under-Lyme 01:30 - 03:00

Northampton 02:00 - 03:30

Nottingham 02:00 - 03:30

Oswestry 00:00 - 01:30

Pershore 01:30 - 03:00

Redditch 01:30 - 03:00

Ross-on-Wye 01:00 - 02:30

Rugby 01:30 - 03:00

Shrewsbury 23:30 01:00

Skegness 23:30 - 02:00

Solihull 02:00 - 03:30

Spalding 01:00 02:30

Stafford 23:30 - 02:00

Stoke-on-Trent 00:00 - 01:30

Stratford-upon-Avon 02:30 - 04:00

Sutton Coldfield 01:30 - 03:00

Sutton-in-Ashfield 00:00- 01:30

Portsmouth 02:30 04:00

Ramsgate 06:00 09:30

Reading 04:00 - 05:30

Redhill 05:30 07:00

Rochester 05:00 - 06:30

Romford 05:00 - 06:30

Seaford 04:00 - 05:30

Sevenoaks 06:00 - 07:30

Shoreham-by-Sea 04:00 - 05:30

Southampton 02:30 - 04:00

Staines 05:00 - 06:30

Sutton 05:00 - 06:30

Thame 04:00 - 05:30

Tonbridge 06:00 09:30

Tunbridge Wells 06:00 - 09:30

Uxbridge 04:30 - 06:00

Waterlooville 02:30 04:00

Whitstable 08:00 - 09:30

Winchester 04:30 - 06:00

Woking 05:30 - 07:00

Wokingham 04:00 - 05:30

Witney 02:30 - 04:00

Worthing 04:30 06:00

Broadstairs 06:00 - 07:30

Bromley 05:00 - 06:30

Burgess Hill 04:00 05:30

Camberley 05:00 - 06:30

Canterbury 06:00 - 07:30

Chatham 06:00 - 09:30

Chichester 03:00 - 04:30

Chieveley Services (M4) 03:30 - 05:00

Christchurch 02:00 - 03:30

Clacket Lane Services (M25) 06:00 - 07:30

Crawley 05:00 - 06:30

Croydon 05:00 - 06:30

Dartford 05:00 - 06:30

Deal 06:00 - 07:30

Dover Port 08:50

Eastbourne 05:30 - 07:00

Eastleigh 04:00 - 05:30

Enfield 05:00 - 06:30

Epsom 05:00 06:30

Fareham 03:30 05:00

Farnham 04:00 05:30

Faversham 05:30 07:00

Fleet Services (M3) 04:00 - 05:30

Folkestone Stop 24 Services (M20) 08:15

Gillingham 06:00 - 09:30

Guildford 05:30 - 07:00

Gravesend 05:00 - 06:30

Hailsham 05:30 07:00

Hastings 06:00 - 07:30

Havant 03:00 - 04:30

Haywards Heath 04:00 05:30

Herne Bay 06:00 - 07:30

High Wycombe 04:30 - 06:00

Horsham 05:00 - 06:30

Hove 05:00 - 06:30

Hythe (Kent) 08:15

Leighton Buzzard 04:00 - 05:30

Lewes 05:00 - 06:30

Lewisham 05:00 - 06:30

Littlehampton 04:00 - 05:30

Maidenhead 05:00 - 06:30

Maidstone 06:00 09:30

Maidstone Services (M20) 06:00 - 07:30

Margate 06:00 - 07:30

Milton Keynes 04:00 - 05:30

Newhaven 04:00 - 05:30

Oxford 04:00 - 05:30

Oxford Peartree Services 04:00 05:30

Oxford Services (M40) 03:00 - 04:30

Polegate 04:00 - 05:30

Portchester 02:30 04:00

South West England

Amesbury Countess Services 02:30 - 04:00

Bath 02:30 - 04:00

Bodmin 23:30 - 01:00

Bournemouth 02:30 - 04:00

Bridgwater 01:00 - 02:30

Bristol 02:00 - 03:30

Bristol Cribbs Causeway 02:00 03:30

Cheltenham 02:00 - 03:30

Chippenham 03:30 - 05:00

Cirencester 02:00 – 03:30

Dorchester 02:00 - 03:30

Exeter Services (M5) 00:00 - 01:30

Gloucester 02:00 - 03:30

Gordano Services (M5) 03:00 - 04:30

Keynsham 02:00 - 03:30

Kingswood 02:30 - 04:00

Newton Abbot 00:00 - 01:30

Plymouth 23:30 - 01:00

Poole 02:30 - 04:00

Salisbury 02:30 - 04:00

St Austell 23:30 01:00

Stroud 02:00 03:30

Swindon 04:00 - 05:30

Taunton 00:30 02:00

Tewkesbury 02:00 - 03:30

Tiverton Sampford Peverell

Services (M5) 00:30 02:00

Torquay 00:00 - 01:30

Wareham 02:30 - 04:00

Weston-super-Mare 02:00 03:30

Weymouth 01:00 - 02:30

Yate 02:00 - 03:30

Yeovil 01:30 - 03:00

Wales

Abergele 23:30 - 01:00

Colwyn Bay 23:30 - 01:00

Connahs Quay 23:30 - 01:00

Flint 23:30 - 01:00

Llandudno 23:30 - 01:00

Mold 23:30 - 01:00

Northop 23:00 - 00:30

Prestatyn 23:30 - 01:00

Rhyl 23:30 - 01:00

Wrexham 23:30 - 01:00

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have to pay a single supplement?

We sympathise with the frustration single supplements can cause and we acknowledge that it may be a barrier to booking for many. Unfortunately, many of our hotels charge by room, not by occupancy. However, we continuously work with our suppliers to keep our single supplements as low as possible.

Why do I have to pay a pickup point supplement?

We have listened to feedback from our customers who are looking for greater choice and opportunity to travel, with a much-reduced risk of their booking being subject to a pickup change closer to departure. For all 2026 departures, you can now choose the pickup point closest to you and pay a supplement (if one is applicable) or you can travel under your own steam to a pickup point that does not have a supplement. This means that we can continue to offer a wide choice of departure points that Just Go Holidays, National Holidays and Omega Breaks are renowned for. Pickups in BOLD have no supplement, those with a small + have a £15 per person supplement and those with a small triangle have a £30 per person supplement.

Will my pickup point change?

Pickup points are subject to change. Although we endeavour to pick up customers at the pickup point selected, it can sometimes be necessary to cancel some pickup points for operational reasons. When this happens if the pickup point is less than 10 miles from the chosen one, we will not offer any monetary compensation. If the pickup point is over 10 miles from the original one, we will offer a monetary contribution towards any additional transport you may need to arrange. Please be aware that the amount offered might not be equal to the full amount for the chosen way of transport to the new pickup location. Please see our full Terms and Conditions for more information.

What time will my pickup be?

On our European holidays, pickups will be early morning or on occasion late the previous night. Your exact pickup time will be advised two weeks before you travel. Return times will be late evening.

Who is responsible for my luggage during my journey?

As with all personal items, it is your responsibility to ensure your suitcase is on board the coach. Please make sure you see the driver place your luggage into the coach and on the way home carefully check you collect the correct luggage from the driver at your drop-off point. We cannot accept responsibility for misplaced or damaged luggage and, whilst we will assist you with the recovery of any lost suitcase, this will be upon receipt of the courier costs.

How much luggage can I take with me?

For holidays by coach, your luggage must be restricted to one medium-sized suitcase weighing no more than 18 kilograms (40 pounds); we cannot carry any additional luggage items. Also, we cannot accept responsibility at any time for your personal hand luggage. For tours involving a flight, the amount of luggage will be driven by the airline and we will notify you of the maximum weight limit in your final paperwork.

I have mobility issues – can I bring a walking aid?

You must advise us if anyone in your party has mobility concerns – the minimum requirements are that you are able to climb the steps onto a coach unaided. Please read the tour itinerary carefully to make sure it is appropriate for your mobility level. Due to weight and space limitations we can only accommodate a maximum of two walking aids on to each coach, either collapsible wheelchairs or collapsible walking frames or one of each; the maximum weight of any aid must not exceed 15kg.Therefore you must pre-book a space when you book your holiday and confirmation of this will be on our correspondence to you.

Due to weight and space restrictions we can only accommodate one mobility scooter on a coach. If you wish to bring a mobility scooter you must reserve a space at the time of booking, and this will be available on a first come first served basis. Once the space is taken we will be unable to accommodate any additional mobility scooters. When you book we will ask for the scooter’s dimensions and confirm in writing whether it can be carried. Acceptance is not guaranteed as this may depend on the size and weight of the scooter and the coach. If you do not receive confirmation that a mobility scooter space has been reserved you will not be able to bring one and if you try to do so we will not allow you

to travel. In such circumstances your holiday will be deemed as cancelled by you and full cancellation charges will apply. We regret we cannot carry any motorised wheelchairs.

Please also be aware that some of our hotels may charge you for charging your scooter battery; some hotels may not be able to accommodate mobility scooters due to their structural design, so while we may have room on the coach, if the hotel cannot support it, then we may have to decline your request to bring it along.

Can my special diet be accommodated?

Passengers are requested to inform us of any food allergies/ requests at the time of booking and we will attempt to accommodate them, however, special arrangements cannot be guaranteed. Passengers who are coeliac or follow a gluten-free diet are advised to contact the hotel before arrival to check if the diet is catered for. Some customers take their own bread for breakfast. Customers with severe food allergies or dietary requirements are advised to make appropriate arrangements with the hotel before commencing their tour and speak to the hotel staff on arrival.

What type of food can I expect in Europe?

On our European holidays meals are included as indicated on each tour page. These may be waiter service or buffet style and will be a set choice group menu often consisting of local traditional dishes. Don’t expect lots of vegetables in Spain or lots of potatoes in Italy. Do expect pasta most days in Italy and pork in Austria. In brief, we offer you the opportunity to embrace local food traditions served the local way and not necessarily the British way. Breakfast will be continental with occasional hot options added in certain hotels.

Why do I need insurance?

At National Holidays we are committed to ensuring you are taken care of every step of the way, from the day you book, through to the last day of your holiday. Occasionally passengers fall ill before they travel or have an accident whilst on holiday preventing them from travelling home with the coach or on the return flight or requiring medical care when abroad. This may impact you financially; it is a company policy that all our customers hold some form of travel insurance when purchasing one of our EU tours.

When do I need to pay the balance of my holiday?

The balance due dates (the period before the departure date on which your full balance normally becomes due) are: 8 weeks before departure for all UK mainland holidays, Events and Themed breaks by coach or 10 weeks before departure for all European, Ireland, Isle of Man and Channel Islands holidays by coach. For UK, Europe, Ireland, Isle of Man and Channel Islands holidays by air, the balance is due with us no later than 10 weeks before travel. For bookings made after the balance due date; full payment is due at the time of booking. You can also make interim payments anytime between paying the deposit and the balance due date.

Railway excursions

Please note that journeys on certain railways may not always be steam hauled, even when pictured in this brochure as being so. Diesel locomotive trains are sometimes in use on certain journeys over which, regrettably, we have no control.

What do I do if I have a special request?

All special needs and requests must be advised to us at the time of booking. These cannot be guaranteed but will be noted on your holiday confirmation document. If you need assistance, or may not fully be able to enjoy all aspects of your holiday you must tell us in advance so that we can maximise your enjoyment of the holiday. Before booking your holiday, you should be sure that you and your party are physically and mentally capable of completing the itinerary. We will not always be able to tell you before you leave if we cannot meet your special requests and we cannot accept your booking on the proviso that the request is honoured. If you will require a special diet please tell us at the time of booking, or as soon as you are medically advised, together with a copy of the diet.

Will there be a toilet on the coach?

All coaches that we contract have a toilet. Please note that due to their tank capacity we would suggest they are used sparingly. We also ensure there are adequate comfort stops scheduled within our journeys.

Will it always be the tour coach that collects me from my chosen pickup point?

Not always, sometimes we utilise smaller feeder vehicles to operate some pickups; these vehicles will transfer you to join the main tour coach. We do this to offer a wide range of pickup points and to keep the overall journey times for the tour coach to a minimum. Please note if you have booked front seats or any other guaranteed seats through our seat reservation service, these only apply once you join the main tour coach.

Are the excursions guaranteed to run on the day specified in this brochure?

Our brochures and itineraries are put together sometimes over a year in advance therefore, unfortunately, things may change before the tour takes place and some excursions may be swapped from one day to another.

Will there be tea/coffee makers in the hotel room?

This facility is unfortunately very rarely available in European hotels.

Do I need a passport?

All our Europe, Ireland and Channel Islands holidays are sold on the basis that you are a British Passport holder. It is your responsibility to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of the tour return. You need to advise us if you are not travelling on a British passport for port security checks. In addition, any visa requirements are your responsibility.

What do I do if I’m not completely happy?

It is imperative that if you are unhappy about any aspect of your holiday, you raise the matter IMMEDIATELY with the coach driver, tour manager or accommodation provider. If you do not tell us at the earliest opportunity about a problem giving rise to your complaint, we cannot take steps to investigate and rectify it at the time. If the matter cannot be resolved immediately, you must write to/email the Customer Contact Department via the on-line form on our website, quoting your booking reference and the details of your complaint so that we may commence an investigation.

What is a JG Explorer Coach?

This is a brand-new deluxe coach, thoughtfully designed to provide an enhanced coach journey experience. We will always use our every endeavour to ensure a ‘JG Explorer’ coach operates a tour it is scheduled for. However, as with all things mechanical breakdowns can occur. Our fleet of ‘JG Explorer’ coaches are totally unique built especially to our specification, so it won’t be possible to find a replacement coach to the same specification. Therefore, in the event a ‘JG Explorer’ coach is not able to operate the tour we will supply our usual executive coach and make a refund of the premium paid and this shall be the full and total extent of our liability. On some holidays to Europe, Ireland and in the UK we may operate a coach interchange system. In these cases, you will join your ‘JG Explorer’ coach at the interchange. Our onboard entertainment system delivers entertainment, quizzes and games etc via Wi-Fi to your own device. Therefore, please bring your own smart phone or tablet to access this service. Each seat on the coach has access to a USB port for charging.

Entry & Exit system for visiting the EU (EES) All non-EU nationals travelling to a European country will be subject to checks at the border.

The EES system replaces passport stamping and automates border control procedures collecting and recording the data in your passport, your date and place of entry and exit from a European country and also your facial image and fingerprints.

In most cases these checks will be carried out upon arrival in the EU when arriving by air, however, due to the dual French and UK border arrangements in Dover, these checks will take place in Dover for coach passengers, prior to boarding the ship for the cross-channel sailing. All travellers will be required to disembark the coach and pass through the automated EES kiosks for the checks to take place, once complete the coach will have a seal attached to the door and proceed to the port and check-in for the ferry. Customers will no longer therefore be able to join the coach at the port of Dover and the last joining point will now become Stop 24 services on the M20.

European Travel Information

Authorisation System (ETIAS)

During the first half of 2026 the rules of travel to Europe will change and there will be an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals. Travellers will be required to make an online application for and obtain an ETIAS travel authorisation to enter most EU countries, a fee of €7 will be charged. Once confirmed this is linked to your passport and will be valid for 3 years or until your passport expires if that is sooner. If you get a new passport, you will need a new ETIAS travel authorisation. You must carry the email confirming your successful ETIAS submission and unique ETIAS application number along with your passport when travelling as both documents will be checked at the border. ETIAS is not required for Crown Dependencies – Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, or the common travel areas of Northern and Southern Ireland.

Further details can be found at travel-europe.europa.eu and we will update this page as exact dates and further details are released.

Visa requirements:

You will need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for Sri Lanka. To help make this process as smooth as possible, we have partnered up with

Accessibility Information

If you or your travelling companions have any mobility concerns, please inform us at the time of booking. It is a minimum requirement that you are able to climb the steps onto a coach unaided. We also hold accessibility information for each hotel, and are able to advise if lifts and/or ground floor rooms are available. Further details are shown in this brochure and are also available online at nationalholidays.com/accessibility If you have any queries on hotel facilities in relation to mobility, please contact us immediately for detailed information.

Terms & Conditions Extract

Holidays by Coach

Coach package and self-drive holidays are subject to National Holidays terms and conditions which are available to read online at nationalholidays.com/about-us/terms Bookings are accepted on the basis that you have read and understood them. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust

(ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability and government guidelines. Errors and omissions excepted. Holidays by Air

Air package holidays are subject to National Holidays terms and conditions which are available to read online at nationalholidays.com/about-us/terms. Bookings are accepted on the basis that you have read and understood them. Prices are correct at the time of publication but are subject to fluctuation and availability. The final price will depend on your chosen airport, airline and flight time. Financial protection is in place via the ATOL scheme and terms and conditions apply. Please visit our website for more details. Errors and omissions excepted. Operated by National Holidays, ATOL No.10889.

One piece of checked-in hold luggage PER PERSON is included however; the weight allowance does vary between airlines. Please ask for details.

Hotel transfers may be in shared vehicles. You may also have to await passengers arriving on other flights; for your convenience we will do our utmost to keep the waiting time to a minimum. All prices shown are per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Single supplements apply. Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply. Prices are correct at the time of printing (August 2025) and will be honoured for bookings made on or before 14/09/25. Prices after this date are subject to fluctuation.

Full terms and conditions will be provided with your booking confirmation. Also available on request, please call 03332 342 476 or visit nationalholidays.com/about-us/terms.

Hotel ratings can be found online at nationalholidays.com/hotelratings.

Winter Sun

IN BENIDORM OR CALPE

34 Days Departing 7th January & 4th February 2026 from £1,999

Dreaming of sunshine while the UK shivers? Trade grey skies for golden beaches on an unforgettable 34-day all-inclusive escape to Spain’s beautiful Costa Blanca! With golden sands, gentle Mediterranean waters and endless blue skies, this extended winter getaway is the perfect choice for those wanting to get away for longer.

We’ve made your holiday even better, with extra days in resort and a leisurely, scenic journey. Enjoy overnight stops in the charming towns of Troyes and Montpellier, plus a lunch stop in picturesque Mâcon as you travel through France into sunny Spain.

Once in resort, relax with all meals, drinks and entertainment included and take advantage of carefully curated excursions to coastal gems, cultural sights and stunning landscapes – all designed to make the most of your time away. So why wait? Leave the winter blues behind and enjoy 34 days of sunshine, scenery and unforgettable experiences – all without boarding a plane!

Select ONE OF THREE HOTELS

The Port Vista Oro Hotel offers a vibrant and welcoming stay in in the heart of Benidorm. The hotel offers fantastic on-site facilities and is a short walk to the local beaches and the lively Old Town, where you’ll find a wide variety of amenities.

The Port Fiesta Park Hotel offers a lively and welcoming stay in the heart of Benidorm. The hotel boasts fantastic on-site facilities, and with a short walk to the local beaches and Old Town, you won’t need to go far to get everything you need from your stay.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

y Return coach travel & ferry crossings

y First night on a bed & breakfast basis in France

y Additional overnight stays on outward & return journey on a half-board basis on the Costa Brava

y 28 nights all-inclusive at your chosen hotel

Welcome drink  Buffet

y Guided tours of Guadelest, Valencia, Villajoyosa, Alicante & Elche

y Excursions to Altea, Albir, Calpe Markets (Benidorm hotels only) & Old Town Benidorm Markets (Calpe hotel only)

y Services of a resort representative once per week

Single supplement £500

Port Europa Hotel JG3 Calpe, Spain

Located opposite Morello Beach in Calpe, Hotel Port Europa boasts both sea and mountain views and is perfectly situated to make the most of the beautiful local surroundings. The hotel offers a restaurant, bar, an outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Port Fiesta Park JG3 Benidorm, Spain

Port Vista Oro Hotel JG3 Benidorm, Spain