Italian Riviera, Portofino and Monte Carlo
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Monaco, Principality of Monaco - Winter sunset © Monaco Government Communication Department
Italy: The Riviera, Portofino and Monte Carlo
Considered to have the most beautiful coastline in Europe, the Italian Riviera curves around the Mediterranean from Tuscany in the east to the French border in the west. This beautiful area also called the Riviera of Flowers because of the many beautiful hilltop gardens scattered along the coast. Beautiful displays of flora and fauna nestle between quaint and historic towns.
During your visit to the Italian Riviera, you will stay in the charming resort of Diano Marina, and experience traditional Italian hospitality. Diano Marina is a wonderful town with plenty of amenities and a sunny beach. Take a stroll along the promenade and soak up the sunshine! With out fantastic package in March and October, you enjoy wonderful dinners with choice menus from the second evening. The package also includes a typical Ligurian meal and an evening of live music. Furthermore, to welcome you to the Riviera, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink.
While exploring this beautiful coast, visit San Remo. Exploring the Old Town, be sure to make a stop at the Russian Orthodox Church which boasts a truly spectacular dome. A true highlight of this tour is the pretty little town of Portofino. Take a boat and catch your first glimpse of this jewel from the water. The pastel shades of the buildings complement the striking blue of the skies and Mediterranean. Furthermore, head to the tiny country of Monaco! The Old Town features a palace and beautiful gardens while Monte Carlo is an urban playground for the rich and famous.
Discover the many jewels along the Italian Riviera. From bustling markets to sparkling seas, this is the perfect destination.
Dates
Suggested itinerary
Day 1
Arrival
Arrive in Italy and check into your hotel in the beautiful Diano Marina on the famous Italian ‘Riviera of Flowers’. If time allows, begin exploring the area before enjoying dinner in your hotel.
Day 2
Free time in Diano Marina and the Medieval Village of Cervo
Spend this morning at leisure to relax and explore the seaside town of Diano Marina. Potter past historical villas and enjoy a stroll along the beach. This afternoon, we visit the nearby ancient hill top village of Cervo. Cervo’s roots date back the Roman times and its 16th Century walls, overlooking the sea, protect its medieval streets, churches and houses.
Day 3
‘Santa’ lunch and Portofino by Boat
We travel east passing Genoa and stop for lunch in ‘Santa’ Margherita Ligure – one the coast’s prettiest towns with Belle Époque buildings and a handsome town hall. After lunch, we take a short boat trip to Portofino. This world-famous fishing village of pastel hued houses is so pretty it looks like it belongs in a watercolour painting. This is the perfect place to soak up some sunshine and glorious views whilst sipping a glass of Italian wine.
Day 4
San Remo and Botanical Gardens
Villa Ormond is a beautiful residence, crowning sloping English gardens. This morning we visit these gardens and stroll along their winding paths past exotic plants, ancient trees and fountains. Enjoy tranquility and a view across San Remo’s bay. After lunch, we explore the Old Town of San Remo. The capital of the Riviera of Flowers boasts a grand casino, a pretty domed Russian Orthodox Church, and romantic Old Town narrow streets. The town is abundant in impressive villas and marvellous ornate churches. Perhaps take a leisurely stroll along the beachside promenade, which affords unrivalled views of the stunning coastline.
Day 5
Monte Carlo and Monaco
Discover one of Europe’s smallest countries: Monaco. Nestled in a cove along the coast close to the French/Italian border, it is the home of the rich and famous. Perhaps enjoy a guided tour to explore the historic cliff-top Old Town, where you will discover the beautiful Exotic Garden, overlooking the sea is home to thousands of giant sized cacti, thanks to the area’s exceptional climate, as well as many sculptures and works of art. There is also the Royal Palace and Cathedral and quaint streets far removed from the famous Casino and port. Perhaps watch the changing of the Palace Guards or visiting the amazing Grand Prix Circuit. Enjoy some free time at the Casino Square or ‘Golden Square’ with prestigious shops, amazing restaurants and luxury cars.
Day 6
Island Cruise and Alassio
Enjoy a morning cruise, as we sail from Alassio around Gallinara – a wildlife sanctuary and privately owned island. In the afternoon, we enjoy free time to explore the beach front town of Alassio with its beautiful promenade. The old town features narrow streets lined with clothes shops, gelaterias and bookshops. Perhaps visit the Villa della Pergola, where the gardens are built onto verdant terraces. Water lilies laze on the surface on ponds, tickled by fountains, and wisteria covered pathways lead between gardens.
Day 7
Ventimiglia Market, Ancient Villages and Wine Tasting
Today we drive to Ventimiglia, the end of the line in Italy before France. Lying on the border, it became famous for its lively markets popular with locals an tourists alike. Friday is Ventimiglia’s market day and you can find many bargains at the famous markets, running the length of the town and sea front. Afterwards, we continue a short way to visit Antico Frantoio for tastings for local produce and wine. In the afternoon, we visit the ancient village of Dolceacqua. Overlooked by a castle and with a humpback bridge arching attractively over a scenic river, this is a delightful place to find yourself. It’s so beautiful that Monet even visited here to paint.
Day 8
Depart
Time permitting, enjoy some final sightseeing or buy some last minute before saying ciao to the Italian Riviera. It’s time to leave this blissful piece of paradise behind and begin your homeward journey.
Suggested Hotels
Hotel Eden Park ****
This property is 1 minute walk from the beach. Located by the sea and just 200 yards from the town centre, this hotel is surrounded by picturesque gardens with a swimming-pool, and offers guests access to its private beach. The hotel has a restaurant and bar and the rooms feature air conditioning, satellite TV, safe, mini bar, hairdryer, direct telephone and Wi-Fi.
Hotel Gabriella ***
Hotel Gabriella is located directly opposite its own private beach in Diano Marina. It offers free parking and free WiFi, a heated swimming pool, and a sea-view rooftop terrace. It has a bar and the restaurant serves local and international cuisine. The air-conditioned rooms feature a balcony, LCD satellite TV and free Wi-Fi.
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| Dates | 8 days / 7 nights |
| Twin/double | Available on request |
| Single | Available on request |