The Italian Riviera and Tuscany

Experience a journey through some of Europe’s most beautiful and celebrated landscapes, where Renaissance cities, dramatic coastlines and elegant seaside resorts come together in one unforgettable holiday. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the colourful shores of the Italian Riviera, this carefully crafted tour reveals Italy at its most captivating.

The itinerary features a remarkable collection of iconic destinations. Discover Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, rich in world famous art and architecture. Visit Pisa to admire its legendary Leaning Tower and explore the beautifully preserved walled city of Lucca. Along the coast, experience the dramatic beauty of the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of colourful villages clinging to rugged cliffs above the Mediterranean. The journey also includes time in the picture perfect harbour of Portofino and a guided visit to the glamorous Principality of Monaco, where royal history, grand architecture and Mediterranean views create a truly memorable experience.

Comfort and location are key to this tour, and both are reflected in the quality of the hotels chosen for your stay. In Alassio, the highly rated Grand Hotel Spiaggia, a long standing favourite with Arvonia customers, combines comfort and classic Riviera style in a superb location close to the beach and promenade. In Viareggio, the Grand Royal Hotel provides an elegant and welcoming base within easy walking distance of the promenade, shops and cafés, allowing you to enjoy the character and atmosphere of this much loved Tuscan resort at your own pace.

With scenic journeys, excellent accommodation and a thoughtfully balanced programme of guided visits and free time, this tour offers a rich and rewarding experience of Italy and the Riviera. A holiday designed to inspire, delight and create lasting memories.

Click on the images below to see more...

GRAND ROYAL HOTEL VIAREGGIO

The Grand Royal Hotel Viareggio is an elegant and historic hotel housed in a beautiful Liberty style building, set among palm trees and gardens in one of Viareggio’s most refined areas. Located within easy walking distance of the famous promenade, beach, shops and cafés, it provides a comfortable and well positioned base for enjoying this classic Tuscan seaside resort.

The hotel offers a welcoming restaurant with a pleasant garden terrace, along with a bar and attractive outdoor spaces where guests can relax after a day of sightseeing. Bedrooms are comfortably furnished in a traditional Italian style and are well equipped with air conditioning, satellite television, Wi Fi, telephone, minibar, safe and hairdryer. A lift serves all floors for added convenience.

Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s charming private garden and pleasant outdoor spaces. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool which operates seasonally and may be available during our visit.

GRAND HOTEL SPIAGGIA

Occupying a superb beachfront position in Alassio, the Grand Hotel Spiaggia is a stylish and well regarded hotel that has become a firm favourite with Arvonia customers, consistently praised for its comfort, quality and outstanding location on the Italian Riviera.

One of the hotel’s highlights is its panoramic restaurant, offering wonderful sea views, along with an impressive rooftop terrace featuring a swimming pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxing while enjoying the coastal scenery. Bedrooms are comfortably furnished and well equipped with air conditioning, satellite television, Wi Fi, telephone, desk, safe and hairdryer. A lift serves all floors for added convenience.

Guests also benefit from access to the hotel’s own private beach area, located directly in front of the hotel, further enhancing the appeal of this much loved seaside property.

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THIS TRAVEL PACKAGE

Accommodation with dinner and breakfast in Alassio
Accommodation with breakfast in Viareggio
Accommodation with breakfast in Lille
Accommodation with dinner and breakfast in Macon
Accommodation with breakfast in Mulhouse
Guided tour of Monte Carlo
Guided tour of Lucca
Guided tour of Cinque Terre villages
Boat journey from La Spezia to Monterosso
Boat journey from Santa Margherita to Portofino
All excursions and visits as detailed in the tour itinerary
Return Eurotunnel crossings
Return travel by luxury coach

Day One

Our journey begins with an early departure, travelling south to Folkestone before crossing beneath the Channel to France via the Eurotunnel. We continue through northern France to the elegant city of Lille, where we enjoy our first overnight stay and begin our continental adventure.

Day Two

We travel south through the heart of France today, following the autoroutes through ever changing landscapes. By late afternoon we arrive in Macon, beautifully set along the River Saône in the Burgundy region, where we enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

B, D

Day Three

After breakfast, we journey into Italy and towards one of the country’s most breathtaking regions. As we approach the Ligurian coast, dramatic cliffs tumble towards the Mediterranean and colourful towns appear along the shoreline. We arrive in the Riviera resort of Alassio during the afternoon, perfectly placed for exploring this beautiful stretch of coastline.

B, D

Day Four

A full day to enjoy Alassio at leisure. Known for its wide sandy beach, elegant promenade and relaxed Mediterranean charm, Alassio offers the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. Stroll through the historic centre, enjoy time by the sea or simply soak up the atmosphere of this much loved Italian resort.

B, D

Day Five

Today we visit one of the most famous destinations in Europe, the Principality of Monaco. Joined by a knowledgeable local guide, we explore this remarkable city state, dramatically set between mountains and sea. Highlights include the historic old town, the Prince’s Palace and the Changing of the Guard ceremony. There is also time to enjoy Monte Carlo, renowned for its glamorous harbour, luxury yachts, grand hotels and legendary Grand Prix circuit.

B, D

Day Six

Leaving Alassio behind, we follow the stunning coastline to Santa Margherita Ligure. After time to explore the colourful harbour and waterfront, we board a boat for a memorable journey along the Italian Riviera to Portofino. Famed across the world for its beauty and exclusivity, Portofino enchants with its pastel coloured houses, crystal clear waters and elegant harbour setting. Enjoy time to explore its narrow streets or relax beside the waterfront before returning by boat and continuing on to Viareggio on the Tuscan coast.

Day Seven

A day at leisure in Viareggio, one of Tuscany’s most elegant seaside resorts. Famous for its Liberty style architecture and palm lined promenade, Viareggio invites you to enjoy its relaxed coastal atmosphere. Take a stroll along the Passeggiata Margherita, browse stylish shops, enjoy a café overlooking the sea or spend time on the long sandy beach.

Day Eight

Today we experience one of Italy’s true natural wonders, the Cinque Terre. From La Spezia we are joined by a local guide who introduces us to these five remarkable villages, dramatically perched along the rugged coastline and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accessible only by train or boat, the Cinque Terre offers unforgettable scenery, colourful houses, terraced vineyards and sweeping views across the Mediterranean.

Day Nine

We travel inland to Florence, the artistic and cultural heart of Tuscany. Few cities in the world can rival Florence for its wealth of history, art and architecture. Home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Botticelli, the city offers iconic sights at every turn, from the magnificent Duomo to the historic Ponte Vecchio. Time here allows you to experience the atmosphere of one of Europe’s greatest cities.

Day Ten

Our day begins in Lucca, a beautifully preserved medieval city encircled by tree lined Renaissance walls. Enjoy time to explore its elegant piazzas, historic churches and charming streets, or take a walk atop the famous city walls. We then continue to Pisa, where we visit the world famous Leaning Tower, set within the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli alongside the cathedral and baptistery, creating one of Italy’s most striking architectural ensembles.

Day Eleven

We bid farewell to Italy this morning and begin our journey north. Travelling through Switzerland, we pass through spectacular Alpine scenery and the region around Lucerne, where mountain peaks, lakes and valleys create a dramatic backdrop. This scenic route provides a memorable conclusion to our time in Italy before we cross into France and arrive in Mulhouse for our overnight stay.

B, D

Day Twelve

We continue north through France today, travelling along the autoroutes before arriving in the vibrant city of Lille for our final overnight stay. This lively Flemish influenced city is known for its elegant architecture, historic squares and excellent dining scene. The evening is free to enjoy Lille at your own pace. Perhaps take a stroll through the atmospheric old town, admire the beautiful Grand Place, or choose from one of the many cafés and restaurants serving regional specialities. A fitting and enjoyable final evening to reflect on the journey and experiences shared.

Day Thirteen

Our journey draws to a close as we travel to Calais for our return crossing to Folkestone via the Eurotunnel, before continuing home to North Wales with lasting memories of Tuscany, the Italian Riviera and the many unforgettable experiences along the way.

B=Breakfast Included, D=Dinner Included

GRAND HOTEL ROYAL VIAREGGIO

MONACO & MONTE CARLO

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

Name	Address	Distance
Abergele	Abergele, Bowling Green Bus Stop
Bangor, Nelson Pub	Bangor, Bus Stop Opposite Nelson Pub
Bangor, Pontio Centre	Bangor, Pontio Centre Bus Stop
Bethel	Bethel, Primary School Bus Stop
Bontnewydd	Bontnewydd, Bus Stop Near Chip Shop
Bryngwran	Bryngwran, School Entrance
Caergeiliog	Caergeiliog, Outside Sportsmans Pub
Caernarfon, Campbell Road	Caernarfon, Bus Stop Bottom of Campbell Road
Caernarfon, Leisure Cent.	Caernarfon, Bus Stop opposite Leisure Centre
Caernarfon, Morrisons	Caernarfon, Morrisons Bus Stop
Caernarfon, Waterloo Port	Caernarfon, Waterloo Port Bus Stop
Caernarfon, Y Glyn	Caernarfon, Y Glyn Bethel Road
Chester	Chester, Holiday Inn South Hotel Bus Stop
Chirk	Chirk, Moreton Park Garden Centre
Colwyn Bay	Colwyn Bay, Railway Station Bus Stop
Criccieth, Medical Centre	Criccieth, Medical Centre Bus Stop
Ewloe	Ewloe, Outside St David's Park Hotel
Gaerwen	Gaerwen, Stermat Car Park
Gwalchmai	Gwalchmai, Opposite Clock
Holyhead	Holyhead, Bus Stop Outside Ferry Terminal Entrance
Llanberis, Maes Padarn	Llanberis, Bus Stop Opposite Maes Padarn
Llanberis, Spar	Llanberis, Outside Spar Shop
Llandudno	Llandudno, Mostyn Broadway Coach Park Bus Stop
Llandudno Jct. Station	Llandudno Junction, Station Hotel Bus Stop
Llandygai	Llandygai, Penrhyn Castle Entrance
Llanfairfechan	Llanfairfechan, Castle Bridge Bus Stop
Llanfairpwll	Llanfairpwll, Pringles Car Park (Parking not permitted at Pringles car park)
Llanfairpwll Park & Ride	Llanfairpwll, Park & Ride
Llangefni	Llangefni, Church Street Bus Stop
Llanrug	Llanrug, Arvonia Garage
Menai Bridge	Menai Bridge, Library Bus Stop
Northop	Northop, Red Lion Pub Bus Stop
Oswestry	Oswestry, Mile End Services Coach Park
Penrhyn Bay	Penrhyn Bay, Post Office
Penygroes	Penygroes, Bus Stop Opposite Co-op
Porthmadog	Porthmadog, Tesco Bus Stop
Pwllheli	Pwllheli, Bus Station
Rhos on Sea, Cayley Arms	Rhos on Sea, Bus Stop Opposite Cayley Arms
Rhos on Sea, Hickorys	Rhos on Sea, Bus Stop Opposite Hickorys Restaurant
St. Asaph	St. Asaph, Bus Stop Outside Petrol Station
Valley	Valley, Opposite Valley Hotel
Wrexham	Wrexham, Bus Stand Lord Street
Y Felinheli, St. Marys	Y Felinheli, St Mary's Church Bus Stop
Y Felinheli, Victoria	Y Felinheli, Victoria Hotel Bus Stop