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Verona and Milan Opera Break with Enchanting Lake Garda
Break Available: SOLD OUT FOR 2022
7 days
Price Per Person: From £1,995
This is one for the serious opera buffs, attending not one but 2 of the most prestigious Italian operas in very different settings – one from an open-air arena in Verona and the other from one of the most famous opera house in the world, La Scala. Both take place in the very best seats in the house.
As well as time to explore two fascinating Italian cities, nearby Lake Garda provides some much needed “me time” to unwind from everyday life.
This trip can be tailor-made to suit a beginner to the region or a regular attender.
Main photo copyrighted Courtesy of Fondazione Arena di Verona.
We are currently offering a Free Complimentary Upgrade to the best seats in the arena in Verona.
Highlights
- Attend the Opera at the Arena di Verona in the very best seats in the arena (Free Complimentary Upgrade)
- Attend the Opera at La Scala in Milan in the very best seats
- Visit the Privately Owned stunning Garda Island with its beautiful gardens and villas
- 4 Star hotel in Verona and balcony view room on Lake Garda
- Verona Pass Card providing free beat the queues access to many local sights in Verona
Day 1
Fly to Verona and Private Transfer to your hotel
Day 1
Fly to Verona and Private Transfer to your hotel
Fly to Verona where your private driver will be waiting to transfer you to your chosen hotel in Verona. All of our transfers are private to you, we do no do groups.
Staying in a centrally located hotel, you will be within easy walking distance of the main sights along with the opera arena, meaning you are free to wander and not reliant on taxis.
Waiting for you at hotel reception will be your opera tickets and your Verona Pass Card. The Verona Pass Card allows free access to many of the local churches and museums. It also comes with a handy map pinpointing the main sights, to help you make the most of your time.
This evening, follow your nose! Verona has many stunning restaurants. We recommend you try one outside of the arena. Then if it is an opera night, you can hear the incredible acoustics while you dine.
Day 2
Day at Leisure and Attend the Opera at the Arena di Verona
Day 2
Day at Leisure and Attend the Opera at the Arena di Verona
Spend the day exploring Verona. You can enjoy Juliet’s Balcony and Tomb, Castelvecchio, The Natural History Museum and the various museums and churches all free with your Verona Pass Card.
Head to the Arena Museum to see old sets and costumes, the latter of which include those worn by Maria Callas. We recommend you also use your Verona Pass Card to gain access to the arena during the day. Of course it will all be transformed tonight for your opera performance!
If you want to purchase the libretto head to the Arena Shop, conveniently located within the arena, for this and many other opera-related souvenirs.
This evening attend the opera at the Arena di Verona in the very best seats in the arena, which we are currently offering as a Complimentary Free Upgrade. Located on the ground floor and the first 11 rows, affords the best view of the stage. For more information on Seating & Practical Advice.
For a flavour of this spectacle please click on the photo opposite.
The Verona Opera Schedule runs from 17 June – 04 September 2022, however, we are now fully booked for June and July. Schedule:
AUGUST
Aida – 05, 21, 28
La Traviata – 06, 20
Turandot – 07, 10, 13, 19, 26
Carmen – 11, 14, 27
Carmina Burana – 12
Nabucco – 18
Domingo in Verdi Opera Night – 25
SEPTEMBER
La Traviata – 01
Turandot – 02
Nabucco – 03
Aida – 04
Video, Header photo and photos 2-8 inclusive opposite, copyrighted to Fondazione Arena di Verona.
A la Carte Optional Extras
- Verona - Day visit to Palladium Villas of Vicenza
- Verona - Al Cristo Wine Tasting
- Verona - Villa Novare Wine Tasting
- Verona - Byblos Spa Day
A la Carte Optional Extras
Verona - Day visit to Palladium Villas of Vicenza
Today a private guide will take you to visit beautiful Vicenza, with the highlights being Villas Valmarana Al Nani and La Rotonda.
Villa La Rotonda was built in the 1570’s as a refined meeting point for Aristocrats and “literary idleness”, whilst Villa Valmarana Al Nani is situated in a beautiful wide 18th Century Park. You will also visit downtown Vicenza and see the Olympic Theatre, Pizza del Signori and Palladian Basilica.
Please note La Rotonda is only open to visit inside on a Wed and Saturday , whilst Valmorana Ai Nani is open Tues- Sun.
Price per person: From £325
Verona - Al Cristo Wine Tasting
We have two great options for you. The first is for those wine connoisseurs. Located within walking distance of your hotel is this small family run restaurant. The Maitre will take you to the cellar and introduce you to 3-4 wines.
Alternatively, if you have done a wine tasting tour before and want to skip straight to the tasting part, why not combine with a meal, and sampling the wines with each course.
Price Per Person: From £50 for Wine Tasting
Price Per Person: From £95 for Wine Tasting with Lunch
Price Per Person: From £110 for Wine Tasting with Dinner
Verona - Villa Novare Wine Tasting
Set in the sweeping landscape of the Valpolicello countryside is the Villa Mosconi. The villa is nestled in the ancient region well known for its wine, wine cellars and clear running water. In 1936 Villa Mosconi created the name of Amarone, one of the most respected wines of the region.
On this day you will have your private transfer to drive you to this scenic location and be given a tour of both the majestic house and garden. At the end of the tour, you will be able to taste 4 wines from the local Valpolicello region along with finding out their history.
Your private transfer will take you back to the hotel after.
Price Per Person: From £165
Verona - Byblos Spa Day
Transfer to Byblos Art Hotel and pamper yourself for the day at their luxurious spa. Enjoy the illuminated pool with hydromassage and chromotherapy, sauna, steam bath and tropical showers.
Included are 1 Keraskin or Decleor treatment, hydromassage, sauna, steam room, tropical showers, use of the Technogym equipment and 3 course light lunch at the Atelier restaurant.
Price Per Person: From £255
Day 3
Private Transfer to your Lake Garda hotel
Day 3
Private Transfer to your Lake Garda hotel
Mid morning private transfer to your Lake Garda hotel, around 40mins away. Settle into your hotel, 4 star Grand Hotel Gardone. Nestled on the west side of Lake Garda, this hotel is located on the Gardone Riviera, where you have access to shops and restaurants nearby.
A short taxi ride and you can reach Salo Harbour for a historical town, or even venture to the bottom of the lake for Sirmione, the castle fort.
Perhaps take a swim in the inviting pool after you have unpacked.
Rest of day at leisure.
Day 4
Visit Garda Island
Day 4
Visit Garda Island
Take the boat which takes you across the scenic lake, arriving at the privately owned Isola del Garda.
Once there you will be given a tour of the island, perhaps even by the Borghese Cavazza family themselves who live on this beautiful island. Get to learn the history of the place as the guide shows you the neo gothic Venetian style villa, the landscaped luscious gardens and the fantastic view over the lake, along with tasting some of the local wine and olive oil. Arrive back on the mainland and rest of day at leisure.
Depending on the day of the week, the tour might take place from your hotel pier or require a short taxi ride.
A la Carte Optional Extras
- Lake Garda - Villa Novare Wine Tasting
A la Carte Optional Extras
Lake Garda - Villa Novare Wine Tasting
Set in the sweeping landscape of the Valpolicello countryside is the Villa Mosconi. The villa is nestled in the ancient region well known for its wine, wine cellars and clear running water. In 1936 Villa Mosconi created the name of Amarone, one of the most respected wines of the region.
On this day you will have your private transfer to drive you to this scenic location and be given a tour of both the majestic house and garden. At the end of the tour, you will be able to taste 4 wines from the local Valpolicello region along with finding out their history.
Your private transfer will take you back to the hotel after.
Price Per Person: From £280
Day 5
Train Transfer to Milan and Private Transfer to your hotel
Day 5
Train Transfer to Milan and Private Transfer to your hotel
Private transfer to the train station for your first class train to Milan. (Around 1hr train time.)
On arrival your private transfer will be waiting to take you to your Milan hotel. All of the hotels we use are within easy walking distance of both the Duomo and La Scala opera house.
Rest of day at leisure.
Day 6
Day at Leisure and Attend La Scala Opera
Day 6
Day at Leisure and Attend La Scala Opera
Day at leisure to explore Milan. You can head to Castello Sforzesca for the museums and the park.
Don’t forget to walk through the park where you will see the Peace Arch towering above you. This was started by Napoleon when he ruled the city, however, after he left, the Milanese decided it was too plain and have since added more decoration to the monument. The park is also wonderfully relaxing for those wanting a slower pace of life.
If you have time you could also explore the nearby art gallery for some culture.
Alternatively why not add in one of our Optional Extras. If this is your first time to Milan, we recommend the Private guided Duomo with Rooftop and The Last Supper tour. See below for more information.
This evening enjoy the La Scala opera in your stall seats. For more information on Seating & Practical Advice.
La Scala 2022 Schedule:
September:Â
Il Matrimonio Segreto (Cimaresa) – 07, 10, 13, 16, 19,22
A la Carte Optional Extras
- Milan - Private Guided Duomo with Rooftop
- Milan - Private Guided Duomo with Rooftop and Last Supper Tour
- Milan - Lake Maggiore Day Trip
A la Carte Optional Extras
Milan - Private Guided Duomo with Rooftop
Today your private guide will meet you for your tour of the Duomo. This gothic building was built in the 5th century and took almost six further centuries to complete. The tour is not complete without a trip onto the rooftop, allowing beautiful views across the city. The roof can be accessed either by lift or stairs.
Price per person: From £115
Milan - Private Guided Duomo with Rooftop and Last Supper Tour
Today your private guide will meet you and take you for a tour of the Duomo. This gothic building was built in the 5th century and took almost six further centuries to complete. The tour is not complete without a trip onto the rooftop, allowing beautiful views across the city.
Move on to Santa Maria della Grazie, the church that houses the world famous Leonardo di Vinci’s Last Supper painting. This mural painting has narrowly avoided two main disasters – the first the paint badly fading so the figures became unrecognisable, the second almost being destroyed during the bombing of World War II. This enigmatic painting has led to speculation that it is Mary and not John sitting to Jesus’ right.
Price Per Person: From £140
Milan - Lake Maggiore Day Trip
To escape from the city for a day, opt for an island hop experience to Lake Maggiore, surrounded by majestic Alps and beautiful scenic gardens. You will enjoy a private transfer to Stresa, (around 1.5 hrs) before your group panoramic boat cruise on the lake, enjoying fresh crystalline waters. You will visit all three of the Borromee Islands – Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella, before arriving back at Stresa to resume your private transfer back to Milan. The tour includes entrance tickets to Isola Madre and Isola Bella (no entrance tickets required for Isola dei Pescatori).
Please note this is available from 18 March – 25 September only.
Price Per Person: From £245
Day 7
At Leisure until Private Airport Transfer for flight home
Day 7
At Leisure until Private Airport Transfer for flight home
At leisure until your private airport transfer for your flight home after your Verona Opera, Lake Garda and Milan Opera Break.
Alternatively, why not extend your trip. We recommend our Venice, Verona, Lake Garda and Milan trip.
Where You'll Stay
Hotel Firenze - Verona (4 Star)
Hotel Firenze - Verona (4 Star)
The Hotel Firenze is located in Corso Porta Nuova. From this elegant hotel, guests can reach all the most important monuments and touristic places of the city:
the Arena, the House and Tomb of Juliet, the Roman Theatre, Castelvecchio with its unique military bridge and Scaligeri Arches along with the tombs of the medieval Signoria family.
All rooms have recently been refurbished, have air conditioning and bathrooms either with Jacuzzi or shower with steam sauna.
This hotel is only a 10 minute walk from the Arena.
Hotel Accademia - Verona (4 Star)
Hotel Accademia - Verona (4 Star)
The Accademia Hotel is in the centre of Verona. The hotel is in the heart of the exclusive shopping area of Verona, conveniently positioned between the Brà Square with the Arena and Erbe Square with Giulietta's House and balcony.
All rooms are spacious and feature air conditioning.
A breakfast buffet is served every morning and includes both sweet and savoury options. Restaurant Accademia specialises in Veneto food and wine, with meals prepared with fresh local products.
This is our most popular hotel for Verona, which consistently comes out top on fantastic feedback.
Grand Hotel Gardone - Lake Garda (4 Star)
Grand Hotel Gardone - Lake Garda (4 Star)
Built in 1884 as the first hotel on Lake Garda, the Grand Hotel Gardone testifies the elegance and style of an era. Amongst the many celebrities that have stayed at the Grand Hotel Gardone are: King George of Saxony, D'Annunzio and Churchill.
The Lakeside Rooms have a splendid view of the lake. Refined cuisine with local specialities can be enjoyed at the pool snack bar, the lakeside Veranda restaurant or a candlelight dinner à la carte on the big terrace. Winnie’s Piano Bar offers the opportunity for a drink and dance after dinner. There is a jetty for motorboats, private beach, new heated swimming pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam bath, relax beds, massage area, and Wi-fi in all the public rooms.
Hotel de la Ville (SINA) - Milan (4 Star)
Hotel de la Ville (SINA) - Milan (4 Star)
Considered to be one of the most elegant meeting places of Milan the hotel is patronised by fashion celebrities, show business personalities, and entrepreneurs. Very close to the Duomo, La Scala and Via Montenapoleone, it is a comfortable and tranquil place, perfect for a stay.
The hotel's restaurant, "Il Vizio", is open late at night, and is the ideal setting for an after theatre meal. There are fine dining options both inside and outside. All the food prepared uses locally sourced ingredients to create traditional Milanese meals. The menu changes with the season.
Enjoy the rooftop pool along with the Wellness Centre, to make your stay relaxing after you explore this fascinating city.
And, as in any aristocratic home, the rooms and suites all have their own distinct personality thanks to the use of different fabrics and decor, the fine furnishings and the marble bathroom.
Grand Hotel Rosa - Milan
Grand Hotel Rosa - Milan
The Rosa Grand Hotel perfectly captures Milan’s mix of the innovative and the inspiring. The refurbished interior exudes Italian craftsmanship with each of the 330 rooms fusing impeccable comfort with chic Italian style. Widely acclaimed as one of the best hotels in Milan, the Rosa Grand puts you in the heart of the city’s historic district with the Duomo and world-famous Via Monte Napoleone just moments away.
True style doesn’t need to shout and our Superior rooms offer refined elegance for your vacation in Milan. You’ll find light, spacious interiors, warm cherry wood furniture and soft fabrics as well as a sumptuous double bed and Italian marble bathroom.
Verona - Day visit to Palladium Villas of Vicenza
Today a private guide will take you to visit beautiful Vicenza, with the highlights being Villas Valmarana Al Nani and La Rotonda.
Villa La Rotonda was built in the 1570’s as a refined meeting point for Aristocrats and “literary idleness”, whilst Villa Valmarana Al Nani is situated in a beautiful wide 18th Century Park. You will also visit downtown Vicenza and see the Olympic Theatre, Pizza del Signori and Palladian Basilica.
Please note La Rotonda is only open to visit inside on a Wed and Saturday , whilst Valmorana Ai Nani is open Tues- Sun.
Price per person: From £325
Verona - Al Cristo Wine Tasting
We have two great options for you. The first is for those wine connoisseurs. Located within walking distance of your hotel is this small family run restaurant. The Maitre will take you to the cellar and introduce you to 3-4 wines.
Alternatively, if you have done a wine tasting tour before and want to skip straight to the tasting part, why not combine with a meal, and sampling the wines with each course.
Price Per Person: From £50 for Wine Tasting
Price Per Person: From £95 for Wine Tasting with Lunch
Price Per Person: From £110 for Wine Tasting with Dinner
Verona - Villa Novare Wine Tasting
Set in the sweeping landscape of the Valpolicello countryside is the Villa Mosconi. The villa is nestled in the ancient region well known for its wine, wine cellars and clear running water. In 1936 Villa Mosconi created the name of Amarone, one of the most respected wines of the region.
On this day you will have your private transfer to drive you to this scenic location and be given a tour of both the majestic house and garden. At the end of the tour, you will be able to taste 4 wines from the local Valpolicello region along with finding out their history.
Your private transfer will take you back to the hotel after.
Price Per Person: From £165
Verona - Byblos Spa Day
Transfer to Byblos Art Hotel and pamper yourself for the day at their luxurious spa. Enjoy the illuminated pool with hydromassage and chromotherapy, sauna, steam bath and tropical showers.
Included are 1 Keraskin or Decleor treatment, hydromassage, sauna, steam room, tropical showers, use of the Technogym equipment and 3 course light lunch at the Atelier restaurant.
Price Per Person: From £255
Lake Garda - Villa Novare Wine Tasting
Set in the sweeping landscape of the Valpolicello countryside is the Villa Mosconi. The villa is nestled in the ancient region well known for its wine, wine cellars and clear running water. In 1936 Villa Mosconi created the name of Amarone, one of the most respected wines of the region.
On this day you will have your private transfer to drive you to this scenic location and be given a tour of both the majestic house and garden. At the end of the tour, you will be able to taste 4 wines from the local Valpolicello region along with finding out their history.
Your private transfer will take you back to the hotel after.
Price Per Person: From £280
Milan - Private Guided Duomo with Rooftop
Today your private guide will meet you for your tour of the Duomo. This gothic building was built in the 5th century and took almost six further centuries to complete. The tour is not complete without a trip onto the rooftop, allowing beautiful views across the city. The roof can be accessed either by lift or stairs.
Price per person: From £115
Milan - Private Guided Duomo with Rooftop and Last Supper Tour
Today your private guide will meet you and take you for a tour of the Duomo. This gothic building was built in the 5th century and took almost six further centuries to complete. The tour is not complete without a trip onto the rooftop, allowing beautiful views across the city.
Move on to Santa Maria della Grazie, the church that houses the world famous Leonardo di Vinci’s Last Supper painting. This mural painting has narrowly avoided two main disasters – the first the paint badly fading so the figures became unrecognisable, the second almost being destroyed during the bombing of World War II. This enigmatic painting has led to speculation that it is Mary and not John sitting to Jesus’ right.
Price Per Person: From £140
Milan - Lake Maggiore Day Trip
To escape from the city for a day, opt for an island hop experience to Lake Maggiore, surrounded by majestic Alps and beautiful scenic gardens. You will enjoy a private transfer to Stresa, (around 1.5 hrs) before your group panoramic boat cruise on the lake, enjoying fresh crystalline waters. You will visit all three of the Borromee Islands – Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Bella, before arriving back at Stresa to resume your private transfer back to Milan. The tour includes entrance tickets to Isola Madre and Isola Bella (no entrance tickets required for Isola dei Pescatori).
Please note this is available from 18 March – 25 September only.
Price Per Person: From £245
Testimonials
What's Included?
- 6 nights accommodation with breakfast (Hotel Firenze – Verona), (Grand Hotel Gardone – Lake Garda), (Hotel de la Ville – Milan)
- Activities as described
- Verona Pass Card
- Flights from the UK (includes 1 hold bag per person)
- Private airport and train transfers
- 1st Class Trains
Departure airports:
Gatwick
Manchester
Our international clients are welcome to book their own flights.