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Medieval Bruges is a perfectly preserved gem as befits one of northern Europe’s richest cities of the Middle Ages. The ‘Venice of the North’ is criss-crossed . . . → Read More: Christmas Markets of Bruges by First Class Rail]]>

Bruges Christmas Markets

Medieval Bruges is a perfectly preserved gem as befits one of northern Europe’s richest cities of the Middle Ages. The ‘Venice of the North’ is criss-crossed with attractive waterways and boasts some of the finest examples of Flemish and European art, including the richly detailed canvasses by Van Eyck and Memling and Michelangelo’s beautiful Madonna with Child. The heart of the city is dominated by the Markt Square and imposing Basilica of the Holy Blood, whilst step-gabled Merchants’ buildings line the pretty canals. All around cobbled streets, guild houses, palaces and stone bridges lead to tempting shops, historic cafés and indulgent restaurants.

3 night Christmas markets holiday by First Class rail staying at the Hotel Bryghia (3 star) from £349 per person, or staying at the Hotel Aragon (4 star) from £375 per person or staying at the Oud Huis de Peellaert (4 star) and the Grand Hotel Casselbergh (4 star superior) from £390 per person

Christmas Markets of Bruges – Holiday Highlights

• Medieval Bruges
• Christmas Markets
• First Class rail travel

Christmas Markets of Bruges – Itinerary

Day 1 – London to Bruges

Your short break begins at iconic St Pancras International. Enjoy the beauty of London’s destination station before the Eurostar service speeds you to Brussels. Sit back in your spacious Standard Premier Class seat and make the most of the light meal and drinks. On arrival in Brussels, you change trains and join the InterCity train to Bruges. You will need to take a taxi (payable locally) for the short journey to your hotel for 3 nights, the Hotel Aragon or the Oud Huis de Peellaert (4 star), ideally located in the heart of Medieval Bruges.

Days 2 and 3 – Bruges and its Christmas Markets

You have 2 full days in Bruges at the perfectly situated Hotel Aragon or Oud Huis de Pellaert (4 star). The ideal way to get your bearings in the stunning city of Bruges is on a walking tour. Uncover the fascinating history of this medieval masterpiece as you wend your way through hidden corners of this captivating city. Enjoy the Bruges Christmas Markets at this festive time. You may choose to journey further afield to Yprès and visit some of the monuments that record the tragic events of the First World War, including the Menin Gate and the nearby ‘In Flanders Field Museum’. Why not indulge yourself in two of Belgium’s most celebrated traditions – Chocolate and Beer! You can visit an artisan chocolate-maker and the renowned brewery museum. Whether your interests are cultural or culinary there is something for everyone in Bruges, from Flemish painters to Belgian chocolates.

Day 4 – Bruges to London

Return to Bruges station for the start of the return journey as you travel by InterCity train to Brussels, where you join the Eurostar service back to London. Take time to reflect on the sights, sounds and tastes you have enjoyed on your short break to Bruges, as you sit back and relax with your light meal and drinks before your arrival into London St Pancras.

Your Hotels

Hotel Bryghia - Bruges	Hotel Bryghia The Hotel Bryghia (3 star) is a small, charming period building dating back to the 15th Century, which was originally connected with the Bruges headquarters of the Hanseatic leagues (medieval Europe’s most powerful alliance). This family-owned hotel is centrally located and overlooks one of the prettiest canals in Bruges. It has a beamed breakfast room and an exquisitely furnished lounge and bar. All the hotel’s ensuite rooms are tastefully furnished and equipped with hairdryer, satellite TV, minibar, safe, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Hotel Aragon - Bruges	Hotel Aragon The welcoming Hotel Aragon (4-star), is run by the DeGroote family. It has been beautifully converted from historic buildings and is situated in the heart of the medieval centre and only a few steps away from the Markt Square. The hotel has 42 spacious and comfortable en suite rooms which are tastefully decorated and equipped with air conditioning, colour TV, a hairdryer, safe and minibar. The hotel facilities include a cosy lounge area and a bar.
Hotel Oud Huis de Peellaert	Hotel Oud Huis de Peellaert The elegant and stylish Hotel Oud Huis de Peellaert (4 star) is run by the De Groote family and situated right in the historical centre of Bruges, only 150 m from the Markt Square. This intimate hotel offers a warm welcome, efficient and friendly service and true hospitality within the inviting and peaceful atmosphere of an old 19th century house. The hotel has 50 spacious and comfortable en suite rooms which are tastefully decorated and equipped with air conditioning, TV, phone, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer, safe and minibar. The hotel facilities include a wellness centre and access is free to guests.
Grand Hotel Casselbergh	Grand Hotel Casselbergh The brand new and quite unique Grand Hotel Casselbergh (4-star), is ideally located in the heart of the historical centre of Bruges. Housed in a charming historic building, the hotel is an elegant property, which combines modern luxury and rich history. All bedrooms are larger than average with air conditioning and spacious bathrooms. A wellness centre is available in the 16th century cellars and from the hotel, all interesting places and the numerous shops and restaurants can be easily reached.

Christmas Markets – What’s included

• First Class rail travel London to Bruges and return (Standard Premier service on Eurostar journeys with light meals and drinks)
• 3 nights’ Bed & Breakfast accommodation in the Hotel Bryghia, Hotel Aragon, Hotel Oud Huis de Peellaert or the Grand Hotel Casselbergh in twin/double rooms (based on 2 people sharing)

Additional information

• Taxi transfers not included
• Holiday duration is 4 days

For information and booking
Tel: 01347 811810 or email info@planetrail.co.uk

Read more about Christmas Markets

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Cologne Christmas Markets

Experience Christmas shopping as it should be amidst . . . → Read More: Christmas Markets of Cologne by First Class Rail]]> Christmas Markets of Cologne – departure dates between the dates of 24^th November and 20^th December 2011

Cologne Christmas Markets

Experience Christmas shopping as it should be amidst Cologne’s seven Christmas markets, each with their own unique charm, on this festive short break.

3 night holiday by Standard Class rail from £349 per person and by First Class rail from £499 per person

Christmas Markets of Cologne – Holiday Highlights

• Cologne’s seven Christmas markets
• Cologne and its famous Cathedral
• First Class rail travel aboard the Flagship services of Eurostar, Thalys and ICE

Christmas Markets of Cologne – Itinerary

Your Outward Journey

Day 1 – London to Cologne

Your holiday begins as you enter iconic St Pancras International and head for the continent aboard Eurostar to Brussels. Sit back, relax and enjoy your journey over a complimentary meals and drinks on board. You then join the high-speed ICE service to Cologne. On arrival, check in for 3 nights at the comfortable, ideally located Four Points Hotel (4 star) just 100 yards from the station.

Days 2 and 3 – Cologne and its Christmas Markets

You have two whole days free to soak up the truly festive atmosphere of Christmas time in Cologne. There are six Christmas markets to choose from, each with its own unique character, offering a varied selection of seasonal gifts and decorations, sweets, arts and crafts, as well as traditional stalls selling sausages, wine and beer. Perhaps start your day beneath the biggest Christmas tree in Rhineland at the principal market on bustling Roncalliplatz next to the magnificent cathedral. Then wend your way to the wonderful floating market held on-board a cruise ship on the Rhine. Be sure to visit the medieval market at the Chocolate Museum with musicians, acrobats and craftsmen. In between shopping at the fantastic markets take some time to discover Cologne, its elegant squares, majestic cathedral and beautiful Romanesque churches.

Day 4 – Cologne to London

Your morning is free for a leisurely start to the day and time to hunt for some last-minute bargains. You leave Cologne in the afternoon and travel by superb ICE train to Brussels. Here you join the Eurostar service. Relax and enjoy your meal and drinks as you reflect on the last few days of your short break before arriving into London St. Pancras International.

Your Hotel

Best Western Grand City Hotel

Best Western Grand City Hotel Cologne The Best Western Grand City Hotel Cologne in Cologne is a modern hotel situated directly opposite the station, close to the iconic cathedral in the centre of the city. The hotel features a comfortable bar, lounge and restaurant. All en suite bedrooms are well-equipped with a telephone, wireless internet access, satellite, minibar, hairdryer, trouser press, safety deposit box and tea and coffee making facilities for a welcome morning cuppa.

Christmas Markets – What’s included

• Standard Class or First Class return rail travel from London to Cologne
• 3 nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel (4 star)

Additional information

• Deposit from £100 per person
• Cancellation, medical & travel insurance available
• Holiday duration is 4 days

For information and booking
Tel: 01347 811810 or email info@planetrail.co.uk

Read more about Christmas Markets

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Stunning and stylish – New Year in Paris is the perfect short break destination by rail. This most romantic of cities boasts an abundance of . . . → Read More: New Year in Paris by First Class Rail]]>

Stunning and stylish – New Year in Paris is the perfect short break destination by rail. This most romantic of cities boasts an abundance of iconic monuments, world-class museums, gastronomic restaurants and chic boutiques, all framedby elegant tree-lined boulevards and the mesmeric river Seine.

New Year in Paris 3 night short break by First Class rail staying in superior double rooms at the Hotel Mayfair from £675 per person.

New Year in Paris - First Class

Whether you are enticed here by the romance of the Île St. Louis, the grandeur of the Louvre, the vibrancy of the Champs Elysées, the more bohemian Quartier Latin, the audacious modernity of the Centre Pompidou or the imposing and unique Eiffel Tower, New Year in Paris will beguile you with its gallic charm.

Your chosen hotel is very well located in the heart of Paris, between the Place de la Concorde and the Place Vendôme. The Hotel Mayfair (4 star) boasts an excellent reputation for quality and service, and is the ideal base for your New Year in Paris city break, giving easy access to the Louvre, the river Seine, Left Bank and world-class attractions.

In fact since Paris is such a compact city you will find yourself at the heart of it all, from the finest gastronomic restaurants, welcoming, traditional brasseries and smart cafés that spill invitingly onto the streets. Experience the marvellous views from the Sacré-Coeur, the poignancy and quirkiness of Notre Dame and the Père-Lachaise cemetery, and the lesser known charm of the Marais near the Bastille. Paris is one of those fabulous cities that reveal a different aspect at every turn, leaving the visitor with wonderful memories and an overwhelming desire to return time after time.

New Year in Paris – Holiday Highlights

• The incomparable city of Paris at New Year
• First Class rail travel
• Excellent First Class 4 star hotel in an ideal location

Paris Attractions

• Eiffel Tower and the river Seine
• Cathedrals of Notre Dame and Sacré Coeur
• Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay
• Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysées
• Les Marais and Père Lachaise Cemetery
• Rive Gauche and Quartier Latin

(Sightseeing, excursions and entrance fees payable locally)

New Year in Paris – Itinerary

London to Paris

Your holiday begins as you enter stunningly restored St. Pancras International station.

Take the time to admire the impressive glass roof. Then let the holiday mood take over as you board the Eurostar service for the high-speed journey to Paris. Sit back and relax in your spacious Standard Premier Class seat and make the most of the light meal and drinks On arrival in Paris a private transfer will take you to your hotel for 3 nights, the stylish Hotel Mayfair (4 star), ideally located close to the Louvre in the heart of Paris.

Take a stroll from your hotel and find yourself on the pulsating Champs Elysées, among the chic boutiques of the rue de Rivoli or amidst the tranquillity of the Jardin des Tuileries. This evening choose from the myriad of wonderful gastronomic restaurants or a cosy bistro for dinner.

New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day  – Incomparable Paris

Take some time to plan your days over a leisurely breakfast to ensure you make the most of this magnificent city.

You may decide to explore Paris on foot and wend your way along the river Seine past Notre Dame, the charming Île St. Louis and onto the Rive Gauche. Perhaps soak up some culture with a visit to the treasures of the marvellous Louvre, including the Mona Lisa, feast on the impressionist spectacle at the Musée d’Orsay or revel in the inimitable Centre Pompidou. Why not take a trip up the Eiffel Tower or along the river Seine aboard one of the Bâteaux Mouches (payable locally), alternatively wander among the classy streets and stylish shops of Paris’ 1^st and 8^th arrondissements. Alternatively seek out the quieter streets of the Marais or head for the city’s elegant stores and colourful markets. For dinner you may prefer the welcome of one of Paris’ traditional, evocative brasseries or a stylish gourmet French restaurant.

Free-time in Paris – Paris to London – Homeward bound

After breakfast why not take a trip up the Eiffel Tower or along the river Seine aboard one of the Bâteaux Mouches (payable locally), alternatively wander among the classy streets and stylish shops of Paris’ 1^st arrondissement.

Your private transfer to the Gare du Nord heralds the start of your journey home and time to bid au revoir to France’s capital city. Here you join the Eurostar service and head for home. Take time to reflect on the magnificent sights, sounds and tastes you have enjoyed on your short break to Paris, as you sit back and relax with a light meal and drinks before your arrival into London St Pancras.

Your Hotel

Hotel Mayfair - Paris

Hotel Mayfair The Hotel Mayfair (4-star) is a charming four star hotel located in the heart of Paris, between the Place de la Concorde and the Place Vendôme, which offers a superior quality of service. On arrival you will enter a calm, intimate and luxurious property flooded with soft light. The hotel exudes a peaceful and refined atmosphere, complemented by the hospitality, attention and courtesy that only the finest French tradition can offer. Each of the hotel’s 51 air-conditioned rooms and bathrooms is fully equipped and has its own unique decor which reflects a spirit of authenticity and comfort. The hotel has a cosy and intimate breakfast room where it serves meals throughout the day, and a pleasant bar and lounge for a relaxing drink.

New Year in Paris – What’s Included

• First Class rail travel from London to Paris return (Standard Premier service on Eurostar with meals and drinks)
• 3 nights’ Bed & Breakfast accommodation in superior double rooms at the Hotel Mayfair (4 star)
• Private return transfers from Paris Gare du Nord to your hotel

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Celebrate Christmas in true style in the magical city of Venice. Treat yourself to the charm and delights of incomparable Venice over the festive season. A short . . . → Read More: Christmas and New Year]]>

Christmas Markets

Celebrate Christmas in true style in the magical city of Venice. Treat yourself to the charm and delights of incomparable Venice over the festive season. A short break in this most romantic of cities is the ultimate Christmas gift.

You can tailor make your Christmas and New Year holiday by rail  to exciting destinations throughout Europe including Italy, Switzerland, France, Spain, Germany and Austria.

What better way to chase away the winter blues than a holiday to one of Europe’s magical Christmas Markets? Our short breaks by rail include Germany’s oldest Christmas Market in Dresden dating back to 1434. Here the historic Striezelmarkt, with its romantic and festive charm, is an inspiration in itself, a real treasure trove for traditional handmade crafts. In Berlin you can experience the incomparable excitement of “WinterMagic” in the capital city of the German Christmas Markets. Set amidst some of Europe’s most beautiful squares and renowned buildings, with scrumptious treats and pretty fairy lights, are Germany’s largest selection of over 60 markets. Montreux’s charming market sits cosily alongside the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva and tempts visitors with handmade crafts from local artisans. We also give you the opportunity to explore these fascinating cities and their attractive surrounding areas during the festive season.

The legendary Venice-Simplon Orient Express offers a unique travel experience. For your trip of a lifetime embark on the classic journey from London to Paris and onto . . . → Read More: Venice-Simplon Orient Express]]>

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

The legendary Venice-Simplon Orient Express offers a unique travel experience. For your trip of a lifetime embark on the classic journey from London to Paris and onto the magical city of Venice. Step aboard the Orient Express and you step back in time to a bygone age of luxury rail travel.

Special offer – 4 night holiday by Orient Express (London to Venice) and First Class return rail including 2 nights at the Hotel Cipriani (5 star) in Venice from £2,650 departing from London on 19th July 2012. Also available for journey by First Class rail from London to Venice and returning on the  Orient Express (Venice to London) departing from London on 8th June and 20th July

Special offer – 200 Euros on-board credit for new bookings – travelling on the Orient Express train on any date in 2012 from Venice to London

Departures from March to November 2012 and tailor-made just for you.

Orient Express Holiday Highlights

Travelling on the Orient Express offers so much more; your personal steward is on hand to attend to your every comfort and show you to your exquisite compartment of wooden marquetry and polished brass fittings in original 1920s detail, with soft towels and crisp linen. Experience fine dining as white linen, French silverware and heavy crystal create a marvellous setting for your gourmet meals. All the while you travel across Europe viewing magnificent scenery and ever-changing landscapes from the comfort of this classic train.

Embark on the British Pullman from London and cross the Channel before boarding the immaculate blue and gold carriages of the Venice Simplon Orient Express. Enjoy life on board one of the world’s most iconic trains as you travel through the towering Swiss Mountains and Austrian Alps before arriving in the magnificent city of Venice.

London to Venice on the Orient Express

Your holiday includes rail travel in ultimate style on board the Venice Simplon Orient Express from London to Venice with all meals included and overnight accommodation in a private sleeping compartment, private water taxi transfer to/from Venice Santa Lucia station to your hotel, accommodation with breakfast at your chosen hotel in Venice, First Class rail travel from Venice to London with overnight accommodation en route.

• 1 night on board the Venice Simplon Orient Express from London to Venice
• 3 nights bed and breakfast accommodation at the 4 star Una Hotel Venezia
• Private water taxi transfer to/from Venice Santa Lucia station to your hotel
• First Class rail travel from Venice to Montreux
• 1 night bed and breakfast accommodation at the 4 star Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic
• First Class rail travel from Montreux to London

Itinerary

On Board The Orient Express

Dinner on The Orient Express

Day 1 – As you board the gleaming carriages of the British Pullman train at London Victoria station, your steward will show you to your reserved seat. Sit back and enjoy a three-course lunch with wine and a glass of champagne as you travel throughout the Kentish countryside. On arrival in Folkestone you are escorted by uniformed staff via coach to Cheriton to board the Eurotunnel train to France. After crossing the channel board the distinctive blue and gold carriages of the Continental Wagons-Lits.

Throughout your journey you will be attended by your own personal Steward. After you have settled into your comfortable private compartment it will soon be time to dress for dinner. Why not sip a pre-dinner cocktail before making your way to one of the magnificent restaurant cars. Here you will be served a delicious four-course dinner, prepared by skilled French chefs. After dinner you may want to linger in the bar car, listening to the sound of the baby grand piano. When you are ready, retire to your compartment, which has now been transformed into a cosy bedroom.

Through the Alps to Venice on the Orient Express

Day 2 – You awake to the magnificent scenery of the Swiss Alps as breakfast is served in your compartment at a time to suit you. Choose to spend the morning in the Bar Car chatting to fellow guests over coffee or relax and gaze out at the fabulous views from the comfort of your seat. Enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch served in another of the beautiful restaurant cars. This afternoon you may choose to visit the on board Boutique to purchase souvenirs, while away the hours in conversation or take it easy in your compartment and admire passing scenery as the train travels through the Italian Dolomites. Later, afternoon tea is served in your compartment as you travel through the Brenner Pass. All too soon it is time to prepare to disembark as the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon and pulls into Venice Santa Lucia station.

Venice

Venice

Days 3 & 4 - You have two full days in Venice to experience the uniqueness of this incredible city. You may decide to visit St. Mark’s square, the Doges Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica or explore the food market and shops in and around the Rialto Bridge. Perhaps wander through the hidden campi (squares) and over the countless bridges which link the criss-cross of canals, or take to the water on a romantic gondola to see a different side of Venice.

Homeward Bound

Orient Express Room Service

Day 5 – Savour your final morning in Venice before your private boat taxi transfer re-unites you with the rest of the world as you leave Italy behind and board the Eurostar Italia service for the First Class journey to Milan. From here join the comfortable Eurocity service as you head in to the Alps and on to the pretty lakeside town of Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva. Here you stay 1 night, including breakfast, at the belle époque Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic located right next to the station. Take a stroll alongside Lake Geneva and, time permitting, visit the beautiful Château de Chillon.

Day 6 - Walk across to the station and continue to Lausanne to board the TGV to whisk you back to Paris. Watch the rolling hills flash past or reminisce on the wonders of the past few days. Your private transfer takes you to the Gare du Nord and the last leg of your journey. Here you join the Eurostar and let the train take the strain as you stretch out and savour the light meal and drinks included in your Standard Premier Class (formerly 1st class) service. At 186mph the landscape is a blur at times, though memories abide as you return to London St.Pancras International.

Accommodation

Una Hotel Venezia	Una Hotel Venezia Right in the heart of Cannaregio, in the Cà d’Oro quarter, one of the most important districts of Venice, the new Una Hotel Venezia (4-star) looks straight out onto the Rio Priuli Canal. It is only 5 minutes on foot from the Rialto Bridge and 10 minutes from magnificent St. Mark’s Square. This stately building has been restored to its ancient splendour thanks to carefully thought out renovation, with the emphasis on detail and furnishing. Special features are the Murano glass chandeliers which create a romantic atmosphere. Una Hotel Venezia has only 37 rooms which are elegantly furnished in a typically ornate Venetian style, and provide every possible comfort. You can enjoy elaborate cocktails and appetizing snacks in the American bar.
Hotel Ai Mori d'Oriente	Hotel Ai Mori d’Oriente Enjoying a great location in an area exclusively reserved for local Venetians, the Hotel Ai Mori d’Oriente (4-star) offers an attractive and calm setting from which to enjoy and explore this most evocative of cities. Named after Turkish tradesmen, “mori”, who for centuries lived in this beautiful palace, the hotel offers guests contemporary accommodation equipped with air conditioning, mini- bar, hair dryer, direct-dial telephone, satellite television, radio, safe, and internet connection point. The hotel benefits from a tastefully decorated breakfast room, bar and reading room. Guests can relax amidst the exotic atmosphere of the hotel’s furnishings which hark back to the times of oriental merchants, and traders, plying their trade on the “Silk Route” which had Venice as its main port. Located about 10 minutes’ walk from the Rialto Bridge, the Ai Mori d’Oriente offers visitors a fascinating insight into the real Venice as well as easy access to charming restaurants frequented by locals rather than tourists.
The Locanda Orseolo	Locanda Orseolo Locanda Orseolo (3 star) is the result of a recent faithful restoration of a typical Venetian home, facing the Orseolo canal and only a few steps from St. Mark’s Square. One of the key features of this charming inn is the wonderful family atmosphere in the heart of enchanting Venice, with breakfast freshly prepared for each guest. All the rooms in his boutique hotel feature tasteful furniture and decor in local Venetian style with thorough attention to detail. Rooms overlook the Orseolo canal or the quiet private courtyard, and feature satellite TV, minbar, safe, hairdryer and wireless internet access.
The Al Ponte Antico Hotel	Al Ponte Antico Hotel The Al Ponte Antico Hotel (4-star) – ranked No.1 on ‘Trip Advisor’ - is an intimate residence facing the Grand Canal, with a splendid view of the Rialto Bridge. The exceptional location of this charming palace, its tasteful design and comfortably furnished and fully-equipped rooms is sure to delight customers. The special quality of this exclusive family-run hotel of only 9 rooms is due to the warm welcome, refined atmosphere and highly personalised service and renowned hospitality of the Peruch Family and its staff. The hotel features luxurious interiors and a wonderful terrace, where you can enjoy truly unforgettable evenings....
Locanda SS Giovanni Paolo	Locanda SS Giovanni Paolo In the heart of the historical centre, a few steps away from the Rialto Bridge and Saint Mark's Square, the Locanda is an ancient eighteenth century house which has been completely renovated. The hotel offers pleasant rooms decorated in 18th century Venetian style each of which has air-conditioning, telephone, wall-safe and a modern bathroom. Breakfast is delivered conveniently by room service at the time that suits you....
Palazzo Giovanelli Hotel	Palazzo Giovanelli Hotel The boutique Palazzo Giovanelli Hotel (4-star) is an elegant hotel in the historic centre of Venice overlooking the Grand Canal. This brand new hotel is set in a 15th Century palace and blends modernity and tradition to good effect. All the 41 comfortable en-suite bedrooms are unique and furnished with stylish, exclusive fabrics and are fully-equipped with all modern amenities. The hotel benefits from a stylish, modern bar and attentive, friendly service....
Hotel Cipriani - Venice	Hotel Cipriani The Hotel Cipriani exudes charm and exclusivity, and represents everything you would expect for a luxurious stay in the wonderful city of Venice. It is a resort: a way of life, an island apart, in every sense. And it involves all the senses that make a stay unforgettable. Just four minutes by private launch from San Marco, on the tip of the Giudecca Island, the Cipriani is a synonym for the dolce vita, Venetian style. The hotel has 79 Rooms & Suites sharing a unique view of Venice, restaurants to please the finest palates and impeccable service await you. Double rooms with a lagoon view and balcony are the most spacious double rooms, beautifully decorated with vivid colours and Venetian style furniture with a sitting area, King or twin beds. Most of these rooms are recently renovated and offer breathtaking views of the open Lagoon and its islands from the private balcony or terrace....
Palazzo Sant Angelo - Venice	Palazzo Sant Angelo The Palazzo Sant Angelo (4 star) is ideally located on the Canal Grande, between the Ponte di Rialto and the Academy. This is an exceptionally intimate and luxurious boutique hotel, where timeless 18th century Venetian furnishings are combined with modern touches. A private pier offers direct access to canal boats, allowing hotel guests to arrive in style. The hotel preserves the aristocratic ambience it had when it was a private residence. A warm light filters through the hall's windows overlooking the Canal Grande, the precious tapestry and the magnificent Palladian floors provide a perfect setting for moments of leisure, watching the gondolas go by or simply sitting next to the fireplace sipping an aperitif. All 26 rooms and suites at the hotel are tastefully furnished and feature all modern comforts, including spacious bathrooms in Carrara and green Alps marble....
The Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic	Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic The Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic is a traditional Belle-Époque 4-star hotel, originally built in 1870 and located right in the centre of Montreux, just a few steps from the Railway Station. The hotel has 140 rooms and benefits from fabulous views of Lake Geneva and the Alps from its summer terrace. All the comfortable en suite rooms in this stylish hotel feature air conditioning, TV, minibar, radio and telephone....

What’s Included

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Orient Express – read more on the history and routes of the Orient Express

Piazza Navona

We specialise in organising holidays for groups (as well as individuals). We offer fully-escorted group holidays to a variety of exciting destinations, including . . . → Read More: Escorted Tours and Group Bookings]]>

Piazza Navona

We specialise in organising holidays for groups (as well as individuals). We offer fully-escorted group holidays to a variety of exciting destinations, including Italy and Germany. 

There are numerous benefits to these types of holiday:

You will be fully escorted by one of our friendly, professional Tour Managers. Thanks to their organisational and social skills they ensure that all our arrangements run smoothly, allowing you to relax, meet new friends and have a fabulous holiday.

When we visit an attraction as a group we benefit from the expertise of a local guide, who will often add a whole new dimension to the experience.

Every excursion, city tour and sightseeing visit we describe in the itinerary is included in the price. We make it clear on each holiday itinerary exactly what is included, so you can budget accordingly, safe in the knowledge there are no hidden extras.

You can choose from our pre-planned itineraries or we can tailor make your trip for you. 

If there are 6 or more of you in your party you can benefit from savings on your holiday costs.

What’s more you will be able to enjoy excursions to some fascinating and unique destinations and experiences, sometimes at a reduced cost.

We can cater for groups of any size so if you are a local association or organisation we can take the hassle out of organising a trip for you and your friends. You will also benefit from valuable savings, including free places*, which will make your planned trip more affordable. 

We also include the services of a professional tour manager * on some tours

* dependant on the tour and number of passengers travelling