Venetian Escape
5 Nights - 6 Days
October 11-16, 2024
Friday, October 11
Arrival in Venice
Welcome to Venice! Your adventure begins as you land at Venice Marco Polo Airport. After clearing Immigration and Customs, keep an eye out for our friendly Tour Manager, Lorna, who will be waiting just outside the Customs area to escort you to your hotel.
For a truly Venetian experience, we will take a private water taxi from the airport to the hotel. The dock is conveniently located at the far end of the airport, and this scenic ride will drop you off just a short distance from your accommodation.
For friends arriving from other parts of Italy, the train to Santa Lucia station in Venice, followed by a water taxi to the hotel, is an excellent option.
Upon arrival at the hotel, you can check in or leave your luggage if you've arrived early. Take some time to explore our charming new neighborhood to get your bearings. Lorna will provide some delightful dinner suggestions to prepare you for the exciting adventures ahead.
Saturday, October 12
Venice Exploration
In the morning, get ready to embark on a guided walking tour of Venice led by our Local Guide. Dive into the rich history of this enchanting city, which has thrived on the water for centuries. If possible, our Guide will take us inside the Basilica of San Marco, where you can admire one of Europe's most intricately detailed basilicas and learn about the everlasting connection between Saint Mark and Venice.
The afternoon is yours to wander the winding streets, shop for exquisite glass creations, and soak in the Gothic architecture that defines Venice. We'll reconvene in the evening for a delectable dinner together.
Sunday, October 13
Murano and Burano Excursion
For those looking to escape the tourist crowds, today's adventure takes you to the picturesque islands of Murano and Burano, both close to Venice. Burano is renowned for its vibrant and colorful buildings, while Murano is famous for its exceptional glass craftsmanship.
Hop on a private boat with our Local Guide to visit a traditional glass-making workshop. Learn about the techniques and qualities that make Venetian glass truly special, and you'll have the opportunity to purchase some exquisite pieces, with shipping available.
Next, our Skipper will transport us to Burano, where we'll enjoy lunch amidst the captivating, colorful homes that give the island its unique charm. The afternoon will feature a visit to discover the art of linen fabric and lace making, with ample time for shopping to add a touch of style to your vacation. We'll return to Venice in the late afternoon, and Lorna will provide dinner recommendations.
Monday, October 14
Discover the Doge's Palace
This morning, we'll visit the awe-inspiring Doge's Palace. Explore the unique government structure that allowed the Venetian Republic to thrive for centuries. The palace itself is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with layers of history and ornamentation that tell the story of its evolution from the 14th and 15th centuries to the opulent Renaissance and Mannerist additions.
Learn about Venice's origins, which date back to the fall of the Western Roman Empire, and how it gradually gained independence and flourished.
Afterward, we'll board a vaporetto (Venetian public water taxi) to Piazzale Roma, where our Private Driver will take us on a scenic journey through the countryside for a delightful wine tasting experience. Discover the secrets of Prosecco, including its production methods and what sets it apart from other sparkling white wines.
We'll return to Venice in the evening for dinner at a local Venetian restaurant.
Tuesday, October 15
Farewell to Venice
It's time to bid farewell to the enchanting city of Venice. Our Private Driver will escort us to Zagreb, a journey that takes approximately four hours. Along the way, we'll make a stop in the charming city of Trieste for lunch and indulge in a wine tasting session in Slovenia during the afternoon.
We'll arrive in Zagreb in the afternoon, allowing you to check in, unwind, and prepare for the adventures that await.
October 16
Welcoming Our Tour Comrades
Today, we welcome our fellow travelers for our Premier tour. While Lorna is busy greeting our new friends, you'll be paired with a Zagreb Local Guide. Together, you'll explore the bustling public farmers market, where you'll be introduced to local foods and delicacies. You will be treated to some delightful snacks and beverages to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
Following the market visit, you can choose to continue the culinary adventure with a cooking class or dine at a restaurant featuring authentic Croatian Old World cuisine. In the afternoon, you may have activities planned as per our Premier itinerary, likely including a delightful dinner.
Lorna Holland
+1 571 239 3889