Fred.\ Holidays 2019 Brochure Ponders

Rail | Flights | Multi-centre | Beach | Ferry | Self-drive | Events | and more

Tailor-made European Holidays & City Breaks

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Contents

Bremen

54

Bremerhaven

56

European Travel Specialists

4

Cologne

58

Looking For Inspiration?

6

Dresden

59

Düsseldorf

60

Special Interest Holidays 2020 Oberammergau Passion Play

8

Frankfurt & Heidelberg

61

Battlefields & Rail Holidays

10

Hamburg

62

Beer Festivals & Christmas Markets

11

Historic Highlights of Germany

63

Tailor-made Group Travel & Escorted Holidays

12

Leipzig

64

Sporting Events & Themed Holidays

13

Rostock & Warnemünde - Baltic Sea

65

Theme Parks

14

Ruhr Valley - Dortmund

66

Austria

16

Stuttgart

67

Lakes & Mountains

17

Thuringia - Erfurt & Weimar

68

Salzburg

18

Wiesbaden

69

Vienna

19

Gibraltar

70

Belgium

20

Greece

71

Rail Travel & Beer

21

Athens

72

Antwerp, Bruges & Ghent

22

Hungary - Budapest

73

Brussels, Leuven, Mechelen

23

Iceland

74

Canary Islands

24

Reykjavik

75

Croatia

26

Italy

76

National Parks, Lakes & Islands

27

Italian Lakes

77

Dubrovnik

28

Amalfi Coast

78

Pula, Zadar & Zagreb

29

Milan

80

Czech Republic

30

Rome

81

Prague

31

Tuscany

82

Denmark - Copenhagen

32

Venice & Verona

83

Estonia - Tallinn

34

Netherlands

84

Finland - Helsinki

35

Amsterdam

85

France

36

Norway

86

Bordeaux & Toulouse

37

Bergen, Oslo & Tromsø

87

Lyon & Nice

38

Poland

88

Paris

39

Kraków & Warsaw

89

Germany

40

Portugal

90

Baden-Baden

41

Lisbon & Porto

91

Bavaria & Franconia

42

Spain

92

Altötting

43

Barcelona

93

Bamberg & Würzburg

44

Bilbao & Valencia

94

Explore The Romantic Road

45

Ibiza, Majorca & Menorca

95

Munich

46

Madrid

96

Nuremberg

47

Malaga & Seville

97

Regensburg

48

Sweden

98

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

49

Stockholm

99

Switzerland

100

Germany continued Berlin

50

Basel & Bern

102

Black Forest - Freiburg, Titisee-Neustadt & Triberg

52

Zurich

103

Bodensee (Lake Constance)

53

Jungfrau Region

104

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Iceland

Norway

Denmark Netherlands

European Tailormade Specialists

Germany Belgium

Tailor-made Travel Specialists

France

At Fred.\ Holidays, we specialise in European tailor-made holidays.

This means we can create the perfect holiday designed specifically to your requirements; whether you prefer 3, 4 or 5-star accommodation, additional nights, rail transport, regional flights or even multi-country holidays, simply let us know and we will do the rest.

Switzerland It

Why Tailor-made Travel?

Tailor-made travel allows you to explore your chosen destination or destinations at your own pace, experience local cuisines to your taste and to visit mainstream and off the beaten track locations. In essence, tailor-made travel is to travel your way.

Spain

Most Importantly – Financial Security For your peace of mind - In addition to being part of one of the UK’s most established travel companies, Fred.\ Holidays is ABTA and ATOL bonded, ensuring that you are financially protected in the event of unforeseen circumstances. for your peace of mind 09 44

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Portugal

taly

Sweden

Finland

Russia Estonia Latvia Lithuania Belarus Poland Ukraine

Czech Rep Austria

Slovakia Hungary

Slovenia Croatia Montenegro

Romania

Serbia

Albania Greece Malta

Moldova

Bulgaria

Georgia

Macedonia (FYROM) Turkey

Armenia

Azerbaijan

Cyprus 5

Looking for Inspiration?

Gone are the days of traditional seven and 14-night holidays.

Today, holidaymakers are replacing their usual summer escape with multiple holidays throughout the year, varying in duration from a short break to an exploratory travel experience.

At Fred.\ Holidays, we have compiled a collage of photographs from some of the recent trips our staff members have taken. These include: • A visit to Europa-Park and a retreat into the Black Forest • German Christmas Markets in Bremen • Exploring Greek Mythology in Athens • Travelling along the famous Amalfi Coast and to the islands of Ischia and Capri • Exploring the magnificent waterfalls of Iceland • And more Within this brochure we feature a selection of tailor-made holidays and city breaks designed to offer inspiration. If you are looking to fly from a local airport, to extend your stay based around our suggested holidays or to create your very own holiday experience, call our friendly Travel Specialists today. We look forward to hearing from you.

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“Better to see something once than hear about it a thousand times�

In today’s world, international news is at the touch of a button; friends and family share their memories instantly and telephone calls from payphones are almost extinct.

Communication is of importance to us all, if only to boast about the fantastic views we have unearthed or the historic sites we have visited.

Whilst not all of us have succumbed to posting selfies on social media, digital images shared allow us to forge everlasting memories. And these memories fulfil the enjoyment of travel.

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Special Interest Holidays

2020 Passion Play Oberammergau 16th May - 4th October 2020 In 2020, the Passion Play will be performed for the 42nd time, maintaining the tradition of this unique, world-famous event.

The history of the Oberammergau Passion Play begins in 1633. After endless death and hardship at the hands of the Thirty Years' War and the bubonic plague, the surviving population of Oberammergau vowed that they would perform the "play of the suffering, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ" every ten years if they were spared from extinction.

At Whitsun in 1634, they kept their promise for the first time and so began the history of the Oberammergau Passion Play which demonstrates the suffering, death and resurrection of Christ.

As early as the middle of the 18th century, spectators came to Oberammergau from all over Germany, attracted by the great power and mystique of the play. The villagers have kept their vow ever since and their faith and commitment has been recognised and admired around the world.

It is regarded as one of the most important passion plays.

Rail Holidays & Private Guided Tours With excellent rail networks and breath-taking scenery, you can experience this once-in-a-lifetime event and explore the stunning regions surrounding it via rail. Visit the Bavarian capital of Munich, explore the beautiful Bavarian countryside, or extend your stay even further and visit the classical cities of Vienna and Salzburg during your 2020 Passion Play holiday.

Make your Oberammergau Passion Play experience even more special with one of our private guided holidays. Throughout your journey, you will benefit from expertise and guidance of your own private driver-guide who will transfer you between destinations and give you and in-depth insight into the history of each city and the spectacular play itself.

An Experience for Everyone From individuals to couples, families, friends and groups, the 2020 Passion Play can be enjoyed by all.

Passion Play Theater at night Š Passion Play Oberammergau 2020

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Suggested holiday: Departures available between May & October 2020

Itinerary 1. Day 1 Depart UK - Munich Depart the UK on your flight to Munich and explore this city at your own leisure.

2. Day 2 Munich - Oberammergau Today, after breakfast, take the train from Munich to Oberammergau with the rest of the day at leisure to explore.

3. Day 3 Oberammergau Today, visit the village of Oberammergau for your Passion Play Experience.

4. Day 4 Oberammergau - Linz After breakfast, take the train from Oberammergau to Linz, a picturesque town on the banks of the Danube River.

5. Day 5 Linz - Vienna After breakfast, take the train from Linz to Vienna the capital of Austria. Explore this magnificent city at your leisure.

6. Day 6 Vienna Today, continue your exploration of this wonderful city steeped in history.

7. Day 7 Vienna - Salzburg After breakfast, take the train from Vienna to Salzburg, where the genius composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born.

8. Day 8 Salzburg Salzburg is the fourth largest city in Austria. The city offers the perfect combination of a picturesque mountain setting and a beautifully preserved old town. Explore at your own leisure.

9. Day 9 Salzburg - Arrive UK Today, your journey ends with your return flight to the UK.

What's Included • Eight nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast • Train tickets, 2nd class: °° Munich to Oberammergau °° Oberammergau to Linz °° Linz to Vienna °° Vienna to Salzburg • Admission to the Passion Play including °° Category 2 tickets °° 3 course meal during the Passion Play °° Bus transfer to the Passion Play and to the Passion Play-Meal °° Passion Play text book • Return flights from UK

From £1,949pp Please note, accommodation for the Oberammergau Passion Play may be in Oberammergau or the surrounding area. Prices are based on flights from London, regional flights are available and may incur a supplement. Full terms and conditions apply.

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Special Interest Holidays

Battlefields, Rail Holidays & Steam Engines

Whether you choose to join a guided tour, to visit independently or to embark on an escorted journey, the inclusions of battlefield excursions and visits to historic wartime sites offers visitors the opportunity for remembrance and education.

Suggested Holiday Dresden Steam Engine Festival Four nights departing 11th April 2019

Itinerary 1.

2-3. Dresden Steam Engine Festival The Steam Engine Festival opens its doors - With your admission ticket to the Dresden Steam Engine Festival, you are also free to visit the Dresden Transport Museum.

4.

Dresden Explore the old town of Dresden, also fondly called the "Florence on the Elbe" ("Elbflorenz"). Enjoy the beauty and charm of the city and follow the footsteps of the Saxon Elector, August the Strong during a 1.5 hour sightseeing tour. You can also visit the Steam Engine Festival or enjoy one of the various adventurous trips with special trains and steam engines in and around Dresden.

(Additional charges may apply).

5.

Dresden - Arrive UK Depart Dresden by train to Berlin. Check in for your flight to the UK.

Suggested holidays may include: • WW1 Battlefields • ANZACs on the Western Front • Auschwitz Concentration Camp • Nuremberg Rally grounds From times of luxury to modern day economy, rail travel throughout Europe has become a part of the holiday itself. From green meadows, to mountain passes and travels through historic cities, a rail journey is the perfect way to feed your appetite for exploration. Embark across multiple countries, travel along historic routes or take the opportunity to combine smaller towns with large cities.

Some of our most popular rail holidays include: • Combining Munich, Vienna & Prague • Exploring Switzerland with a Swiss Travel Pass • Combining stops in France, Belgium and the Netherlands • A visit to Stuttgart & the Black Forest • Travel from the UK for a no-fly rail holiday

Depart UK - Dresden Depart UK flight to Berlin, upon arrival transfer by train to Dresden.

What’s Included • Four nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast • One-day ticket to the Steam Engine Festival • Entry to the Dresden Transport Museum • Guided tour through the historic city centre of Dresden • One ticket for a special steam train ride • Return rail from Berlin to Dresden • Return flights from the UK Additional tickets for the Steam Engine Festival and for the Night Photography Parade are available on request at an additional cost.

From £649pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 11th April 2019. Please note, steam train rides are subject to availability and change.

Other events include the Meiningen Steam Festival and Winter Steam in Advent.

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Special Interest Holidays

Beer Festivals & Christmas Markets With a magnitude of events to choose from throughout Europe, beer festivals, carnivals and Christmas markets take centre stage every year.

From the world-renowned Oktoberfest to the Cologne Carnival or the Bremen Freimarkt, there is fun for individuals, couples, groups of friends and families alike. Beer halls, Ferris wheels, local brewers, stalls and more.

Some of our most popular Beer Festivals include: • Oktoberfest - Munich • Hamburg DOM • Berlin Beer Festival • Starkbierfest - Munich (Oktoberfest’s little brother) • Cologne Carnival • Bremen Freimarkt • Czech Beer Festival - Prague As the colder days and darker nights roll in, across Europe the festivities of Christmas begin to shine. From the traditional to the more eccentric, a winter break can take on many forms

Some of our most popular destinations include: • Bremen • Lake Constance - Bodensee • Ludwigsburg • Düsseldorf • Cologne • Rothenburg ob der Tauber Call today for your tailor-made Beer Festivals or Christmas Markets holiday.

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Special Interest Holidays

Group Travel & Escorted Holidays

Groups of friends, family members, a club or society, travelling together may introduce additional benefits to your holiday.

Interested in a golfing break, a trip to a beer festival or even an escape to a woodland retreat? All of our suggested holidays and breaks featured within this brochure can be tailored for the requirements of a group.

Some of our most popular group travel holidays include: • Europa-Park - Theme Parks • Cycling River Paths • Beer Festivals • Formula 1 Weekends • Spa Retreats

From tailor-made travel to escorted travel.

Are you looking to delve a little deeper into the destination to learn about its history and what makes its heart beat?

At Fred.\ Holidays, we can offer a range of escorted travel arrangements either in the format of a private group holiday or an opportunity to join like-minded travellers and explore together.

Some of our most popular escorted holidays include: • Germany & its Castles • Discover Sicily • Swiss Mountains & Glacier Express • Explore Tuscany • The Heart of Germany & Prague • Exploring Naples Bay

Preferred Partner - Back Roads Touring With more than 30 years’ experience in premium small group tours across Europe, Back-Roads Touring is truly the original Small Group Touring company.

With each European tour capped at 18 passengers, Back Roads curates authentic, off-the-beaten-track travel experiences.

Catering for the mature traveller, Back-Roads has built up a brand rooted in expert local knowledge, sustainable tourism, culinary excellence and boutique accommodation.

Looking for inspiration or to discuss your requirements further?

Speak with one of our travel specialists today.

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Special Interest Holidays

Sporting Events & Themed Holidays From Moto GP to horse racing and the high-octane Formula 1 Grand Prix, there are many sporting events taking place throughout Europe and you can enhance your holiday with a trip to one of these.

Some of our most popular tours and events include: • Formula 1 Grand Prix °° Weekend & Race Day Tickets °° VIP Tickets • Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe • Baden-Baden International Horse Racing • Moto GP °° Weekend & Race Day Tickets °° VIP Tickets Looking for something a little different? Enhance your holiday further and embark on a luxury car journey, cycle along rivers or go hiking in the hills.

Suggested Holidays Include: • Germany and Its World Famous Cars • Cycling Holidays °° Danube, Elbe & Weser Cycle Paths °° Baltic & North Sea Cycle Paths °° Lake Constance Cycle Path °° Main, Moselle & Rhine Cycle Paths • Walking Holidays °° Harz Mountains °° Black Forest °° Bavarian Alps • German Football Route

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• Tecina Golf

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Special interest holidays

European Theme Parks

Thrill seekers will be glad to know that Europe is home to some of the best theme parks in the world. Whether you are looking for steep drops, stunning acrobatic performances, or something that the whole family can enjoy, you won’t be disappointed with the range of options available.

Europa-Park Germany's largest theme park attracts more than five million visitors to this fascinating world of adventure each year. Covering an area as big as 136 football pitches, visitors to Europa-Park can experience fun and adventure in various themed areas, each representing a different European country. The typical architecture, natural surroundings and food specialities take visitors right into the country of their choice.

Hurtle from dizzying heights on high-speed rides, including the SilverStar, one of Europe's highest rollercoasters, or be amazed by the fascinating acrobatic shows and enjoy first-class entertainment.

Attractions such as the Crazy Taxis, Grimm's Enchanted Forest and Dwarf City promise bundles of family fun.

After all the excitement, retreat to one of five different themed hotels (soon to be six, opening in 2019) or the cowboy-themed Camp Resort.

The accommodation offers quirky family rooms and delicious restaurants so you can unwind and refuel for another day of fun.

Suggested Holiday Europa-Park & Baden-Baden Daily Departures Available Please note, Europa-Park operates a Summer and Winter season

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Europa-Park Depart UK on your flight to Basel. Upon arrival, transfer to Europa-Park for your two night stay.

2. Europa-Park Enjoy a full day at Europa-Park 3. Europa-Park - Baden-Baden Transfer from Europa-Park to Baden-Baden 4. Baden-Baden Explore this much loved spa town in the foothills of the Black Forest.

5. Baden-Baden - Arrive UK Depart Baden-Baden on your flight to the UK.

What’s Included • Two nights' 4* accommodation at Europa-Park’s El Andaluz hotel including breakfast • Two nights' 4* accommodation in Baden-Baden including breakfast • Two-day park ticket at Europa-Park • Private overseas transfers • Return flights from the UK

From £769pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 4th June 2019.

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Tivoli Gardens

Other Popular European Theme Parks Phantasialand Situated in BrĂźhl, near Cologne, in the heart of the Rhineland in Germany, Phantasialand is a fascinating world of adventure and excitement. As one of Europe's top entertainment parks, Phantasialand boasts a spectacular selection of attractions and shows for children and adults alike.

Adrenaline junkies should head straight for the spine-tingling Black Mamba roller-coaster and the nerve-jangling, Aztec-inspired adventure Talocan. Plunge 65 metres on a bungee cord through the Mystery Castle and wrestle with the rapids on the River Quest, the world's highest rafting ride.

The little ones will love the enchanting steam-powered carousel, the mini bumper cars and Octowuzy, the interactive water playground. In addition to thrilling rides, the park also offers a mesmerising variety of live shows.

Efteling Theme Park Discover the enchanting world of wonders and magic. Efteling is the largest theme park in the Netherlands, accommodating more than 4 million visitors every year, and is twice the size of the original Disneyland Park in California.

Experience the ancient myths, legends and fairy tales of the Netherlands and Europe as they come to life through 35 rides, six roller coasters, four water rides and numerous shows, films and restaurants.

Take a stroll through the Fairytale forest and meet Long Neck, Fairytale Tree and all the other inhabitants along the way. Experience the exciting adventure of Pagode and enjoy the wonderful sights you see from a Gondoletta boat, or test your nerve with a ride on the Baron roller coaster with its 37.5m free fall and speeds of over 55mph.

Tivoli Gardens One of the Europe's most famous theme parks and the second oldest in the world after its opening in 1843. Attracting almost five million visitors year on year, Tivoli is one of the most popular seasonal theme parks in the world. The park is best known for its famous wooden roller coaster, the Mountain Coaster. Built in 1914, it still operates today.

With an incredible variety of rides and attractions, including a mammoth carousel, aquarium, theatre, stunning pleasure gardens and open-air music performances, there is everything you could need for a fun-filled holiday for the whole family.

Visitors to Tivoli Gardens will experience something different with every season, with specially designed programmes for Christmas; including a Christmas market, parades and Santa's grotto, Halloween; including Halloween market stalls and a Monster parade, and New Year's Eve celebrations; including a fireworks festival.

Disneyland Paris Fairy tales take flight across five incredible lands filled with classic attractions, shows and street parades. Rub shoulders with swashbuckling pirates, zoom through time and space and look on in awe at the unforgettable firework and light displays over Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Since its opening in 1992, Disneyland Paris has become one of the most famous theme parks in Europe and welcomes guests through its doors year round.

Phantasialand

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Berlin

Austria

Poznan

Imagine one of the resplendent Hapsburg monarchs eating a deliciouslooking cake whilst gazing out over Alpine scenery and you have Austria in a nutshell. But the country is much more than a few stereotypes strung together to form a hypothetical royal picnic.

Yes, Vienna is a cultural hub home to a number of palaces and castles stockpiled by the powerful Hapsburg Empire. Yes, the country’s penchant for sweet treats like sachertorte and gugelhupf have earnt it the nickname ‘Capital of Cake’. And, yes, the sweeping alpine scenery creates many opportunities for thrills and spills in nature, but there’s plenty more besides.

Wroclaw

Along with the capital, cities such as Linz, Graz and Salzburg offer the ideal setting for a short weekend break. The latter is home to medieval alleyways and cobblestones that were once graced by Mozart and are now used by fans of the hit musical ‘The Sound of Music’ as they tour places used during its filming. Elsewhere, opera houses showcase stories that we know and love, whilst a new wave of cool is sweeping through the kitchens, bars and galleries.

But if you’re after a real adventure, leave the fascinating museums and cultural highlights behind and head for the lakes and mountains. During the winter months this involves the many ski resorts that offer slopes for beginners and experts, but when the temperatures rise there are many other ways to get around. Grab your hiking gear and explore a maze of scenic trails, take to two wheels and bike the Danube Cycle Path, pick up a paddle and steer your raft through raging waters or discover the depths and a new love for canyoning – the options are almost as endless as the landscapes.

Prague

Českỳ Krumlov

Regensburg

Munich

Linz

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Wels

Vienna

Salzburg Bregenz

Westerndorf Zell am See

Innsbruck

Graz

Mayrhofen

Wörthersee

Ljubljana Venice

Milan

Verona

Pisa 16

Bologna

Zagreb

Plitvice Lakes

Did you know?

The Eagle’s Walk is a 33-stage hiking trail stretching for more than 250 miles across the country. The name comes from the fact that, when mapped out, the trail looks like an Eagle with its wings outstretched.

Austria

Lakes & Mountains As one of the best destinations in Europe for skiing, Austria has a wealth of slopes down which confident, and not so confident, skiers love to hurtle. The powdered mountainsides are so renowned that even James Bond himself has graced them, having filmed a key scene from Spectre in the popular resort of Sölden.

During the summer months, though, Austria’s mountains and lakes play host to vast numbers of tourists in search of relaxing breaks or adventurous activities. If the fast-paced nature of white water rafting and thundering along an Alpine coaster aren’t for you, the shores of Lake Constance and Zeller See are waiting. Take it easy here as you alternate between wandering through charming towns and relaxing next to natural swimming holes.

Highlights • Bregenz – On the Austrian shore of Lake Constance, Bregenz is home to a medieval town centre and a cable car that will take you up the Pfänder Mountain.

• Zell am See – The dramatic 16th-century castle stands out in this lakeside town. The lake freezes over in the winter and everyone dons their ice skates.

• Wörthersee – This was the chosen spot for the Austrian aristocracy to relax during the 19th century. The water is warmer than other lakes in the country.

• Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse – Looking for a road trip? Navigate this twisting and turning mountain highway for breathtaking views of Austria’s highest peak.

• Swarovski Crystal Worlds, Wattens – Created by artist André Heller, this is one of the most popular attractions in Austria. It offers a heady mix of gardens, playgrounds and mazes.

Suggested holiday: Innsbruck & Bregenz Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Innsbruck 2. Innsbruck 3. Innsbruck - Bregenz 4. Bregenz 5. Bregenz - Innsbruck 6. Innsbruck - Arrive UK

What's Included • Five nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast • Return rail travel from Innsbruck to Bregenz • Return flights from the UK

From £599pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 11th March 2019.

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Austria

Salzburg Salzburg moves to the rhythm of two distinctly different musical influences. As the birthplace of Mozart, it pays homage to one of the most talented composers the world has ever seen in a number of different ways, including a sweet treat known as Mozartkugel. The other melodious marvel with a connection to Salzburg is the award-winning musical ‘The Sound of Music’. Various tours along these cobbled streets will take you to many of the filming locations before you sit down for tea (a drink with jam and bread) in one of the traditional coffee houses.

With multiple palaces and the striking Hohensalzburg Fortress perched high above the medieval streets, Salzburg is just as resplendent as Vienna. These imperial buildings, along with the lavish town houses, were built thanks to a wealth created by the roaring salt trade. A stroll along the Salzach River will take you away from the narrow alleys but to an equally romantic backdrop.

Highlights • Hohensalzburg Castle – This commanding fortress was never conquered by any enemy. It has served as a prison and army camp over the years but now hosts three interesting museums.

• Salzburg Cathedral – The turquoise domes of the cathedral are an iconic image of the city and the building displays Salzburg’s wealth during the 1600s.

• Mozart’s Birthplace – Born here on January 7th, 1756, Mozart lived at this residence until he was 17. The museum inside details the work he did in his early years.

• Salzburg Festival – Held for five weeks every summer, this famous music event showcases opera, drama and orchestral performances.

• The Sound of Music Tour – If you love this musical masterpiece, there are plenty of tours available that will take you to some of the filming locations.

Did you know?

Amadeus is not Mozart’s original middle name. He was actually christened Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgang Theophilus Mozart and Amadeus is the Latin version of Theophilus.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £399pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 11th June 2019.

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Austria

Vienna Recent ranked as the most liveable city in the world by Mercer (for the ninth time), Vienna has everything you could wish for in a city break destination. It’s a cultural hub that’s home to some of the best art galleries, opera performances and museums on the planet, as well as being the centre of the Hapsburg Empire. The resplendent buildings found around every corner are a symbol of the family’s power and provenance and, today, offer an elegant look into the past. Many of them lie on the famous Ringstrasse, a three mile long avenue that links some of the city’s best attractions.

Another big part of life in Vienna is the café culture that can be observed on every street corner. From traditional tall-ceilinged tea rooms to modern coffee houses putting their own twist on 19th-century life, you can join the Viennese for some opulent patisserie and watch the world go by over a steaming cup.

If the occasion calls for a stiffer drink, the atmosphere in the local beislns (pubs) will get the night started in the right way, whilst the stemmed glasses in the vinotheks (wine bars) offer a more refined environment.

And with fantastic transport connections across the city, you never need to worry about how you’re getting back to your hotel.

Highlights • Riesenrad – The city’s famous wheel was built in 1897 and is the oldest in the world. It provides great views over the rooftops.

• Schönbrunn Palace – A Baroque beauty, the palace is the former summer residence of many different Hapsburg monarchs.

• Leopold Museum – This gallery features a fantastic selection of work

by Gustav Klimt and his protégé Egon Schiele. If you’re looking for ‘The Kiss’, though, you’ll find it in the Belvedere Palace.

• The Palmenhaus – This glass greenhouse is one of the best places in which to sample that famous café culture. It’s also situated within the beautiful Burggarten Park.

• The Hofburg Palace – If you’re not all palace-d out visit the lavish home of the Spanish Riding School, Sisi Museum, butterfly house and Imperial Apartments of the Hapsburgs.

Suggested holiday: Austria & Czech Republic Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Salzburg 2. Salzburg - Linz - Melk - Vienna 3. Vienna 4. Vienna - Hainburg - Rohrau - Eisenstadt - Vienna 5. Vienna - Brno - Prague 6. Prague - Arrive UK

What's Included • Five nights 3* accommodation including breakfast • Economy-category rental car for the duration of your stay • Return flights from the UK

From £999pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 25th March 2019.

Did you know?

Vienna is one of only a few world capitals that produces its own wine. There are also water fountains on the streets providing fresh water directly from the Alps.

Belgium Belgium is one of Europe’s great food destinations and it’s only a short hop across the English Channel – although we recommend taking the efficient Eurostar or a swift flight.

It’s difficult to know where to start when it comes to tasting the country’s world-renowned cuisine. Brilliant breweries beckon you to sample tipples that have been perfected over hundreds of years, a wave of waffles overwhelms you with a gamut that runs from sweet to savoury, and charming chocolate shops coax you inside their praline paradises.

Belgium can do sophisticated too, though. Modern restaurants with unique twists on culinary classics are popping up in cities like Bruges and Leuven, creating trendy neighbourhoods that blend seamlessly with the historic architecture.

And speaking of architecture, a walk through the old town of any of these cities will make you feel like you have just stepped into a fairy tale. Or, if you find yourself on the street-art-filled alleys of Brussels, it may feel more like a comic book. That fairy tale feeling is created by the looming church spires and Gothic façades of the buildings that surround you.

Whether it’s the Grand Place or the floodlit canals of Ghent, a romantic feeling will wash over you wherever you stroll.

The Hague

Life moves at a slow pace here, too. So, there’s plenty of time to sample the culture (and the Moules-frites).

Rotterdam

North Sea

Bruges

Antwerp Ghent

Eindhoven

Mechelen Brussels

Kortrijk

Liège

Lille Mons

Arras

Malmedy

Chimay

Rochefort

Luxembourg City

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Belgium

Rail Travel & Beer If you’re looking to travel by train, Belgium is one of the easiest destinations to visit. Regular Eurostar services from St. Pancras, Ebbsfleet and Ashford take you to Brussels at high speed and from there it’s easy to get to any of the other major cities. Not only is it a stress-free way to travel, you also have the added benefit of seeing much more during your journey.

The sheer variety of Belgian beer means there are plenty of tipples to try as you make your way around the country. Whether you do this via a brewery tour, tasting session or local beer walk, you’ll soon discover that each drop is uniquely complex but also strangely familiar. This juxtaposition of flavour is a result of hundreds of years of developing the perfect brew and there are plenty of historic institutions that are more than happy to show off the final product.

Did you know?

The Kwak glass has a unique shape and was supposedly designed this way so that coach drivers (horse and cart) could stop at an inn for a drink without having to break the rule which prevented them from leaving their coach unattended.

Suggested holiday by rail: Belgian Beer

Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Brussels - Ghent 2. Ghent 3. Ghent - Antwerp

Highlights

4. Antwerp

• Train World, Brussels – As the website states, this interesting museum will show you the impressive ‘track record’ of Belgian trains, along with a look to the future.

5. Antwerp - Brussels

• ’t Brugs Beertje, Bruges – This traditional pub is tucked away on one of the side streets in Bruges’s old town and serves 300 different bottled beers.

• Zythos Beer Festival, Leuven – Many Belgian cities have their own beer festival, but Leuven’s is one of the biggest and best.

• De Heeren Van Liedekercke, Brussels – Stay for a drink and you’ll have 300 bottles to choose from, stay for the food and taste a variety of dishes made using local beer.

• Three Valley Steam Railway, Mariembourg – Known as the CFV3V, this authentic steam train takes you from Mariembourg to Treignes via some of the prettiest towns in Belgium.

6. Brussels 7. Brussels - Arrive UK

What's Included • Six nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast • Return rail travel from UK • Rail travel from Ghent to Antwerp • Rail travel from Antwerp to Brussels

From £699pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London St. Pancras on 4th March 2019.

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Belgium

Antwerp, Bruges & Ghent

In the 2008 film ‘In Bruges’, Brenden Gleeson spends most of the movie trying to persuade Colin Farrell that Bruges isn’t boring. However, it will take you far less time to discover this fact. As romantic as cities come, the canals and church spires combine to create scenes that could have been taken directly from a fairy tale. When darkness descends, the floodlighting adds an extra layer to the dreamy surroundings.

Ghent is the closest thing to a hidden gem in Belgium – a city small enough not to be overrun by crowds of tourists but big enough to offer plenty to keep you busy over a weekend. The architecture takes you seamlessly from century to century, museums educate and fascinate, and the canals provide a peaceful way in which to navigate the compact network of cobbled streets.

Where other Belgian cities attract visitors with historic architecture, Antwerp is the home of glamourous fashion and glitzy diamonds. That’s not to say that it doesn’t have its fair share of history and culture though, as anyone who has ever admired the works of Peter Paul Rubens will be able to tell you.

Highlights • Museum aan de Stroom, Antwerp – Known as the MAS, this is the best place to learn about the history of Antwerp and its people.

• Diamond Pavilion, Antwerp – See for yourself why Antwerp is considered the diamond capital of the world.

• The Béguinage, Bruges – This peaceful town within a city is largely unchanged since it was founded in the 13th century. It was first home to women who lived like nuns without taking an oath.

• Basilica of the Holy Blood, Bruges – This church proudly displays a phial that is said to contain the blood of Christ. It’s also home to a crown that once belonged to Mary of Burgundy.

• Castle of the Counts, Ghent – This castle is the only one remaining in Flanders that has a moat. The exhibitions inside reveal the tumultuous political past of the city.

Did you know?

Ghent is a keen promoter of vegetarianism and regularly holds meat-free Thursdays in schools and restaurants. One local treat is the Ghent nose – a sweet, purple cone filled with jelly.

Suggested break: Antwerp Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast & return rail from the UK

From £299pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London St. Pancras on 12th March 2019.

Suggested break: Bruges Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation & return rail from the UK

From £299pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London St. Pancras on 14th May 2019.

Suggested break: Ghent Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast & return rail from the UK

From £319pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London St. Pancras on 4th June 2019.

22

Belgium

Brussels, Leuven & Mechelen Brussels provides the perfect welcome to anyone arriving in Belgium, many of whom head straight for the resplendent Grand Place, one of the world’s finest historic squares. Brussels is slowly overtaking Paris as an important art hub with many museums and galleries around the city. And the best part is, it’s so easy to explore. You can hop from brew-house to chocolatier to waffle vendor to fine dining restaurant in minutes.

Mechelen is definitely an underrated Belgian destination. Beautiful churches around every corner, picturesque canals to wander alongside and plenty of interesting museums that will help you learn more about this part of Flanders. With breathtaking buildings wherever you look, many of which are protected by UNESCO, you may spend a lot of your time looking up in admiration.

Centrally located Leuven is given a trendy and vibrant atmosphere by its large student population, but it’s easy to see why so many of them stick around once their studies are over. Whether you’re here to shop, sample some culinary delights or gaze at the Gothic beauty, Leuven has something for every traveller.

Highlights • Dyle Path – This charming walkway takes you alongside the River Dyle which flows through the city. It gives you an interesting perspective of the waterside houses.

• St. Rumbold’s Tower – The unfinished cathedral tower is just one of Mechelen’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Climb it for unrivalled views over the city.

• Grand Place, Brussels – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the central hub of Brussels.

• Belgian Comic Strip Center – As the home of TinTin, Brussels proudly displays over 5,000 pieces of comic strip art in this interesting museum.

• Oude Markt, Leuven – A lively part of town nicknamed ‘the longest bar in the world’. It’s the ideal place for a pre or post-dinner drink.

Suggested break: Brussels Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast & return rail from the UK

From £359pp Prices based on two adults sharing a room departing London St. Pancras on 21st May 2019.

Suggested break: Leuven Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation & return rail from the UK

From £379pp Prices based on two adults sharing a room departing London St. Pancras on 25th June 2019.

Suggested break: Mechelen Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation & return rail from the UK

From £349pp Prices based on two adults sharing a room departing London St. Pancras on 2nd April 2019.

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Canary Islands It’s rare that we talk about a region being bigger than it was this time last year, but that is exactly the case with the Canary Islands. If you are travelling in 2019, you will have an even bigger choice of destinations than those who visited the archipelago in 2018. That is because there has recently been an eighth addition – the island of La Graciosa. Located off the northern tip of Lanzarote, it only has 710 permanent residents and there are no roads. It’s definitely a remote paradise that’s waiting to be discovered.

As a group, the Canary Islands celebrate heavy influences from both Africa and Spain. This can be seen in the food, the colourful buildings and the glorious beaches that are home to volcanic sand or golden grains. Their unique position makes them a year-round destination, offering glorious sunshine in the summer and temperatures much higher than the UK during the winter months.

The most popular islands – Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura – all lie in the east or centre of the archipelago. Their excellent water sport opportunities, historic towns and restaurants that make perfect use of the surrounding seas attract holidaymakers that like to spread their time between relaxing and exploring various sights.

Tenerife is also where you will find Mount Teide, Europe’s tallest active volcano and the perfect adventure for anyone who loves the outdoors.

In contrast, the lesser-visited Canary Islands to the west (La Gomera, El Hierro, La Palma) are largely untouched and offer a slightly more laid back type of holiday. Appealing to a different type of traveller, they are home to fantastic hiking trails, beautiful flora and fauna, and even (in El Hierro’s case) exciting stargazing opportunities.

La Graciosa

Lanzerote

La Palma

La Gomera

Tenerife

Hotel Jardín Tecina

Fuerteventura Pyramids of Güímar

Gran Canaria

El Hierro

Ca

s a i n ar

North Atlantic Ocean Morocco 24

Hotel Jardín Tecina & Tecina Golf the Canary Islands’ best kept secret

0808 159 0795

www.fredhoteljardintecina.co.uk sales@fredholidays.co.uk for your peace of mind 09 44

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Seven nights' half board accommodation, private overseas transfers, ferry crossing & return flights from the UK

From £699pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 7th May 2019.

25

Croatia Croatia

Dubrovnik, Lokrum, Pula, Zadar, Split, Hvar, Brač, Zagreb

Croatia continues to establish itself as the ideal destination for just about any type of holiday you could think of. Want to relax on golden sands next to turquoise waters? No problem. Want to discover ancient civilisations on a journey through the past? There’s plenty of choice.

Want to engage in active adventures through spectacular scenery?

Take your pick from a number of breathtaking national parks.

Then we move onto the food, something that – along with its packed summer schedule of raucous festivals – Croatia is quickly garnering attention for. The country’s cuisine cherry picks the best flavours from nations such as Italy, Albania, Bosnia and Greece, resulting in a melting pot of delicious dishes that will have you struggling to decide what to eat from any menu you encounter. Local olive oil, seafood and wine are all earning acclaim around the world and the welcoming Croatian hospitality provides a great environment in which to sample some of it.

If you are the kind of traveller that cannot sit still for too long, the stunning islands off the Adriatic coast (and the regular ferries that operate between them) will give you the chance to island-hop your way from one glorious beach to another, from one historic Old Town to the next, and from one hidden gem to yet more heavenly, secluded spots.

Away from Hvar, Korčula and the other islands, the cities are home to impressive sights and celebrated museums. When you’re not wandering the quirky halls of the Museum of Broken Relationships you could find yourself walking the streets of Kings Landing or admiring Venetian architecture.

Ljubljana

Zagreb

Plitvice Lakes

Pula Zadar Krka National Park

Sarajevo

Split

Brač Hvar Korčula

Dubrovnik Podgorica Kotor

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Croatia

National Parks, Lakes & Islands The islands off the Dalmatian Coast are one of Croatia’s biggest draws.

And, with beaches that you can really sink your feet into and the chance to enjoy water sports like kayaking, wind surfing and snorkelling, it’s really no surprise. Ferries to Šolta, Hvar, Brač, Korčula and Vis run regularly from Split so there’s no excuse not to sail off into the sunset.

You don’t have to just lie there and soak up the sun if you don’t want to, though. Each island has its own remnants of past civilisations and the old towns are home to some of the country’s most fascinating history.

Much of Croatia’s natural beauty, though, can be found in the eight national parks. From the waterfalls of Krka to the boarded trails of the Plitvice Lakes and the rising peaks in Risnjak, adventure is waiting and it’s very easy to find.

Highlights • Stari Grad, Hvar – This is Croatia’s oldest town and was settled around 384BC. A museum displays Greek treasures found from this time period.

• Zlatni Rat, Brač – Instantly recognisable because of its long, pointed shape, this is one of the best beaches in the world.

• Blue Grotto, Biševo – Every day, between 11am and midday, tourist boats flock to this mysterious cave to marvel at the striking blue colour caused by the sun’s rays.

• Skradinski Buk, Krka National Park – This popular waterfall is a beautiful spot for swimming or just enjoying the views. You can reach it via a well-trodden hiking path or take the local bus.

• Barac Caves, Plitvice Lakes National Park – Venture underground to explore these extraordinary caves that are full of stalactites and stalagmites.

Did you know?

More than 2,700 hours of sunshine are recorded in Hvar every year, making it the sunniest place in Croatia.

27

Croatia

Dubrovnik

Did you know?

The Republic of Dubrovnik was one of the first places to ban slavery. A bill was passed in 1416, a full 450 years before the USA.

If you’re looking for a city break in Croatia then Dubrovnik has to be top of your list. Its historic Old Town has many stories to tell and its striking look saw it chosen as a key filming location for Game of Thrones. The famous red-roofed buildings can be seen from many viewpoints, including the path which runs along the top of the dramatic city walls. From here, you can see local life happening in the houses and schools nestled inside the perimeter, gaze across the narrow stretch of sea to Lokrum Island or stop for a drink in this unique location.

As the sun glistens off the polished marble, it can be easy to lose yourself amongst the maze of steps, alleyways and passages. However, this is arguably the best way to explore this remarkable city, giving you the chance to stumble across hidden churches, charming souvenir shops or the best ice cream this side of the Mediterranean.

Highlights • City Walls – A must during any visit. By sure to pack plenty of water during the summer and take the time to enjoy the views in every direction.

• Cable Car – If you’re looking for the best vantage point from which to capture Dubrovnik in all its glory, take the cable car to the top of Srd Hill.

• Lokrum Island – Regular ferries can take you to this natural paradise where you can follow walking routes or sit on the famous Iron Throne.

• Lovrijenac Fortress – Situated just outside of the Old Town’s walls (and included in your ticket), this fortress was built in just three months to stop Venetian forces establishing a base in a powerful position.

• Old Pharmacy Museum – Thought to be the oldest pharmacy in the world, this establishment dates back to the 1300s. It’s in a beautiful, yet secluded, location, too.

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Suggested break: Daily departures available

Four nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast & return flights from the UK

From £449pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 7th May 2019.

Croatia

Pula, Zadar & Zagreb This trifecta of fascinating cities is often overlooked in favour of a trip to Dubrovnik, but they are all worthy of dedicated visits.

Pula is the perfect place to learn of the many ancient civilisations that have passed through Croatia in the past. You can’t miss monuments like the 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheatre (literally and metaphorically), but there are many other historical gems to also discover, displaying the prowess of the Venetians and, much later, the Austrian Empire. Pula also has a modern side though, something highlighted by its annual Outlook Festival which places music stages amongst the dazzling architecture.

The capital, Zagreb, also has a calendar brimming with cultural events and a number of fascinating galleries and museums to go with it. The city is split into two areas (Upper and Lower town), each of which provides its own unique atmosphere and opportunity to soak up everyday life in Croatia.

Zadar is more of a trendy destination, pushing the boundaries with quirky attractions like the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation. Less crowded than Dubrovnik, it offers a similar character but with more of an edge.

Stunning ruins are packed onto a narrow peninsula, meaning there’s a treasure trove waiting around every corner.

• Church of St. Donatus, Zadar – This is Croatia’s largest preRomanesque building, dating back to the 9th century. Climb to the top for views over the city’s ancient ruins.

• Lighting Giants, Pula – Head down to the shipyard to watch the cranes come to life with a stunning light and music show. It lasts for 15 minutes every hour from 9pm.

• Tkalčićeva Street, Zagreb – This charming, sleepy street comes to life at night when the bars, cafés and restaurants provide the setting for a delicious local meal.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Zagreb 2. Zagreb 3. Zagreb - Pula 4. Pula 5. Pula - Zadar 6. Zadar 7. Zadar - Split 8. Split 9. Split - Arrive UK

Highlights

What's Included

• Sea Organ and Sun Salutation, Zadar – This light-up dance floor (Sun Salutation) and organ built into steps on the shore line (Sea Organ) need to be seen/heard to be believed.

• Eight nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast

• Klovicevi Dvori Gallery, Zagreb – Located within an 18th-century monastery, the gallery showcases Croatian art and travelling exhibitions from around the world.

• Pula Amphitheatre – Used to host gladiatorial contests, this 2000-yearold structure now embraces crowds for live music and theatre events.

• Economy-category rental car for the duration of your stay • Return flights from the UK

From £899pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 18th May 2019.

29

Czech Republic

Suggested holiday:

Most people’s first thought when they think about visiting the Czech Republic is to head to Prague. And why not? Its breathtaking medieval architecture, quirky street art and world-renowned beer create one of Europe’s best city break hubs. However, look beyond the capital and you’ll see there’s a wealth of fascinating history and culture to be discovered in every corner of the country.

Think of Prague as the shop window; it entices you off the street and when you get inside you see that there is plenty more where the display behind the glass came from. Due to the country’s position in the centre of Europe, it shows the marks of empires and raiders that have trodden these lands throughout the past. The castles, châteaux and legends that they leave behind hang in every town and city, casting a physical or metaphorical shadow.

And it’s those legends and stories that feed a folklore culture that stretches across Bohemia. Age-old traditions are kept alive thanks to annual events that see the locals sing, dance, drink and celebrate their unique way of life. This part of the Czech Republic is also home to gems such as Kutná Hora, Český Krumlov and Karlovy Vary. All of these have their own charming character and a small town feeling that always makes you feel welcome.

Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Prague - Český Krumlov 2. Český Krumlov 3. Český Krumlov 4. Český Krumlov - Prague 5. Prague 6. Prague -Arrive UK

What's Included • Five nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast • Private overseas transfers ° Prague Airport to Český Krumlov ° Český Krumlov to Prague ° Prague to Prague Airport • Return flights from the UK

From £549pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 10th April 2019.

The hearty cuisine in this part of the world, and the local beer and wine used to wash it all down with, is also a definite highlight. Czech food may not look like much but the stews, dumplings and fried cheese are just what you need after a day of sightseeing.

Wroclaw

Dresden

Liberec Katowice

Prague Kunta Hora

Pilsen Tabor

Brno

Český Krumlov

Linz Wels Berchtesgarden

nsbruck

Salzburg

Zell am See Mayrhofen

Zlin

Bratislava Vienna

Budapest Wörthersee

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Ostrava

Czech Republic

Prague

By the time you’ve put your phone or camera back in your pocket you will have stumbled across another photo-worthy site, as is the sheer density of impressive buildings on the streets of Prague. The intricate alleyways and cobbled lanes lead you past churches, through archways and across the picturesque Vltava River on a tour of admiration.

Mixed in with the medieval architecture, you’ll see modern art installations that display an absurdity of which Prague’s famous son, Franz Kafka, would be proud. There are also plenty of museums and art galleries that prove the capital has one foot in the modern era as well as one in the past.

And, of course, you cannot come to this beautiful city without sampling the local beer, which acts as the main draw for many visitors. A host of well-known names like Pilsner Urquell and Budvar are joined by smaller, up-and-coming brews in pavement bars all over the city.

Highlights • Prague Castle – This sprawling complex sits high on a hill above the Old Town. It includes the castle itself, numerous palaces and the breathtaking St. Vitus Cathedral.

• Charles Bridge – The iconic structure will take you from the Old Town to what’s known as the Lesser Town. Originally called the Stone Bridge, the name was changed to honour Czech king Charles IV. • Astronomical Clock – Following a major renovation in 2018, the world’s most famous moving clock is back to wow onlookers every hour.

• Petrin Hill – Escape the city centre to explore the leafy side of Prague.

You can take a pleasant stroll or hop on the cable car all the way to the top.

• Speculum Alchemiae – Discover the history of the city’s secret alchemists. Even Emperor Rudolf dabbled in this mysterious practice.

Did you know?

Prague has its fair share of ghost stories that have been told for years. Some believe the souls of the beheaded haunt the Charles Bridge, Kafka talked of ghouls causing tremors beneath the ground and there’s a man-made channel known as the Devil’s Stream.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £339pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 11th May 2019.

31

Denmark

Copenhagen Copenhagen offers Scandinavian life in a nutshell. The pretty Nyhavn Harbour, with its multi-coloured houses, provides a quintessential image; locals demonstrate forward-thinking attitudes by choosing to propel themselves with pedal power; and world-renowned gourmet cuisine pushes the boundaries with new techniques and ingredients. If you had to describe the city in one word, it would undoubtedly be ‘cool’.

Easily explored on foot, it’s impossible not to be swept along by the charming nature of Danish design. Urban planning takes into account the need to be green and sustainable but never forgets a desire to look good whilst doing so. There’s a wealth of history beneath the modern exterior too, and it’s not just Copenhagen’s past that’s on display. There are also exhibits showcasing Ancient Egypt and Islamic art.

Highlights • Nyhavn Harbour – End the day with a stroll through this 17th-century harbour district. You’ll find a wealth of tempting restaurants and plenty of places to relax with a drink.

• Amalienborg Palace – Tour the current Danish royal family’s residence and learn of past monarchs. Arrive at midday to watch the changing of the guard.

• Tivoli Gardens – This national treasure is one of the oldest theme parks in the world, but there is so much more to enjoy than just rides.

• Frederiksberg Gardens – A great place to take a romantic stroll and enjoy the natural scenery. There are waterfalls, Chinese pavilions and even the city’s zoo.

• Shopping in Strøget – Thought to be one of the oldest pedestrian streets in the world, Strøget is filled with renowned designers and local brands.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Did you know?

Copenhagen’s famous son, Hans Christian Anderson, lived in three different houses on the Nyhavn. Numbers 18, 20 and 67 were all home to the great author at one point or another.

Four nights' 3* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £499pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 30th May 2019.

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33

Estonia

Tallinn Celebrations throughout 2018 marked Estonia’s 100th year of independence and it’s clear to see the country and its capital have flourished since being released from the rule of the Soviets and, before that, the Germans, Polish, Swedish and Danes. What stands before any visitor to Tallinn today is a fantastic example of a medieval city that has maintained its charm whilst also bringing itself into the 21st century.

The beauty of the architecture seems to be never-ending, as you’ll find a building with a different story to tell around each corner. Church spires reach towards the sky but your eyes are soon brought back down to ground level by the pastel elegance of the merchants’ houses. Within these impressive city walls is a destination that’s easy to navigate and even easier to adore.

Highlights • St Olaf's Church – Once the tallest building in the world, this church’s spire is striking in more ways than one. It’s been hit by lightning numerous times and burnt down on three occasions.

• City Walls – Three quarters of the wall and half of the original towers are still intact and provide the perfect place to learn about Tallinn’s history.

• Toompea Hill – The highest point in the city is from where it was defended and from where it is now ruled. Here you’ll find a wealth of interesting buildings including Toompea castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

• Kadriorg Art Museum – Escape the city walls to a greener part of town and discover the district of Kadriorg. This museum is housed in Peter the Great’s former summer palace.

• Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour – Saved from demolition in 2012, this former seaplane hangar now holds boats, planes and submarines used during the wars of the 1900s.

Did you know?

As the birthplace of Skype and Hotmail, Tallinn is one of the most technologically advanced cities in Europe. It is also one of the first places to use delivery robots, as Starship Technologies started deploying them in 2014.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast & return flights from the UK

From £359pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 2nd May 2019.

34

Finland

Helsinki If you’re into home design, you may want to book some extra luggage space for your trip to Helsinki, as the design capital of the world (officially in 2012 but unofficially every other year) sets trends in lighting, textiles and even urban planning. Another thing it was ahead of the curve on was using natural, organic ingredients in the kitchen. The restaurants here boast menus full of foraged and found ingredients, along with interesting meats like reindeer and snow grouse that you’ll seldom find elsewhere.

Whilst the city centre is jam-packed with the architectural beauty of buildings built in a range of different styles (the Musiikkitalo concert hall and Helsinki Cathedral being perfect examples), a short hop outside the Old Town will take you to a world of peaceful islands, surprising beaches and thrilling active pursuits.

Highlights • Helsinki Cathedral – A true symbol of the city, the cathedral was designed by Carl Ludvig Engel. Statues of the 12 apostles guard Helsinki from in front of the green domes.

• Suomenlinna – The strategic position of this fortress spread across a group of small islands was important when defending the city in the past. It now hosts a number of museums.

• Temppeliaukio Church – A beautiful example of Finnish design, this church is dug out of the surrounding rock. It is flooded with sunlight and has fantastic acoustics.

• Kulttuurisauna – Relax and experience a key part of Finish culture at this modern sauna. The whole complex is self-sufficient in terms of energy usage.

• Moomin Café – If the Moomins were a big part of your childhood, head to one of five themed cafés for some drinks and snacks inspired by Snork Maiden and the rest of the gang.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £369pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 20th May 2019.

Suggested break:

Did you know?

3 nights stay with 3* accommodation Helsinki Airport was named the world’s best by Travel Link in 2017.

Its efficient security, From £329ppcleanliness, services and transport links to the city centre create a great welcome for all visitors. * Prices based on departing 1st June 2018 from London Gatwick

35

France Many people are surprised to hear that France is the most visited country in the world, ahead of the United States and Spain. When you consider the sheer volume of famous attractions and stunning landscapes it can offer, though, it’s really not that surprising at all. Monuments such as the Eiffel Tower and Le Pont d’Avignon are known all over the world and are instantly recognisable, but this is just one layer of its desirability.

France’s culture is just as loved as its attractions, with many people admiring a laid-back approach to life and an attitude that focuses on family and food. Romance is another alluring factor and a big reason why people visit the country. Whether that’s in terms of its people, its buildings, its cuisine or its scenery, it’s more than just a stereotype.

Amsterdam

And speaking of scenery, there’s so much of it to admire. From the lavender fields of Provence to the banks of the River Seine and the beaches of the French Riviera, this diversity of landscapes is what keeps people coming back again and again. These views are not simply superficial, though, as there is a lot of history behind these important places. You could explore the beaches of Normandy, where thousands of men gave up their lives during the D-Day Landings; you could wander through the enchanting gardens of Monet’s house in Giverny, where the artist lived and worked for 43 years; or you could learn about age-old wine-making traditions in some of the world’s most famous regions, including Champagne, Bordeaux and Burgundy.

Rotterdam Eindhoven

Ghent

One further way in which romance is expressed is through art, another thing for which the country has a big passion. World class galleries can be found in various different cities and the vestige of literary figures like Camus and Sartre can be felt in quiet cafés and bars.

Antwerp Brussels

Cologne

Arras

Le Havre

Luxembourg Strasbourg Nancy

Paris

Basel

Orléans

Nantes

Dijon

Bern Lausanne

La Rochelle

Lyon

Geneva

Saint-Étienne

Bordeaux Toulouse Bilbao 36

Marseille

Nice

France

Bordeaux & Toulouse Bordeaux has aged just as well as the fine wines produced in the surrounding vineyards. What was once a rather stuffy, aristocratic city in the 18th century now moves with the times, with even the traditional cuisine receiving a 21st century lift from a wave of young chefs with modern ideas. The former resplendence has not been entirely erased, though. Breathtaking architecture like the Palais de la Bourse ensures the splendour of the past will never be lost.

• Les Abbattoirs, Toulouse – More than 2,000 pieces of art housed in a former slaughterhouse that has been transformed into the city’s most popular modern attraction.

• Jardin Japonais, Toulouse – You can truly relax in this Japanese peace garden, where quaint bridges, soothing fountains and vibrant blooms create an atmosphere of Zen.

Did you know?

The Bordeaux region produces approximately 60 to 70 million cases of wine each vintage. That’s roughly 700 million bottles.

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to Paris, Toulouse is an excellent option. The red-bricked buildings cast a pink hue over the cute churches and cobbled streets – the latter taking you to cultural delights such as the Les Abattoirs art gallery. Just like Bordeaux, the Garonne River influences the landscape, as does the picturesque Canal du Midi. A large student population also means that the night life has been given an injection of energy in recent years.

Suggested holiday:

Highlights

3. Bordeaux - Toulouse

• Palais de la Bourse, Bordeaux – This stunning building is the city’s former business exchange. At night, the floodlights create a reflection in the adjacent miroir d’eau – a shallow pool of water.

4. Toulouse

• Cité du Vin, Bordeaux – This multi-million pound, high-tech, interactive wine centre showcases Bordeaux’s viticulture in the past and present.

The building itself is also a modern masterpiece.

• Cathedrale Saint-Andre, Bordeaux – A majestic building, it was the perfect setting for the wedding of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Louis VII. You can also climb the Pey-Berland bell tower next door for fantastic views of the city.

Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Bordeaux 2. Bordeaux

5. Toulouse 6. Toulouse - Bordeaux - Arrive UK

What's Included • Five nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast • Economy-category rental car for the duration of your stay • Return flights from the UK

From £549pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 2nd June 2019.

37

France

Lyon & Nice Situated perfectly at the confluence of the Rhone and Saône, and used regularly as a gateway to Provence further south, Lyon takes its rightful place at the head of France’s table. Food dominates everyday life here, offering the chance to grab ingredients from street markets, go all out in one of 16 Michelin-starred restaurants, or enjoy a casual lunch at a traditional bouchon.

Suitably refuelled, you can take a romantic stroll through Vieux Lyon to admire the Renaissance buildings in the country’s first culturally protected district. Any time left can be spent shopping or relaxing in France’s largest urban park.

The Côte d'Azur has long been idolised as an upmarket holiday destination and Nice is certainly one of its jewels. The beach is still a big draw and there’s no better place to spend the day when temperatures soar. However, beyond the golden sands there is a city that has inspired many a famous artist over the years and that will beckon you into a swathe of art galleries to muse over the results.

Having once been part of Italy, the boot-shaped country still influences a lot of things here. You’ll see flavourful pasta dishes next to Niçoise salad on the menu, hear words of Italian origin in the local dialect and see buildings that wouldn’t look out of place on the streets of Florence.

Highlights • Fourvière Basilica, Lyon – Known affectionately as the ‘upside down elephant’ and positioned high above the city on a hill, this church has an ornate ceiling and offers spectacular views from its north tower.

• Parc de la Tête d’Or, Lyon – The largest urban park in France is home to a beautiful rose garden, the zoo and the botanical gardens.

• Cafe des Federations, Lyon – Eating local food in one of the rustic bouchons is an absolute must whilst in Lyon and this is one of the most popular.

• Musée Matisse, Nice – Matisse is one of a number of artists that fell in love with Nice and this museum includes works from the 1890s right up until his death.

Did you know?

A women by the name of Catherine Segurane will forever be remembered in Nice for helping withstand a siege by the Franco-Turks. During one raid, she attacked a soldier with her laundry bat and, soon after, the army retreated.

• Promenade des Anglais, Nice – Whether you choose to relax on the beach, peer in the windows of the five-star hotels or sip a drink in a bar, this is the best place to be when the sun is shining.

Suggested break: Lyon Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £319pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 15th May 2019.

Suggested break: Nice Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £329pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 11th June 2019.

38

France

Paris

Did you know?

On the Paris metro, each station has its own theme, often influenced by nearby attractions or the station’s name.

There’s not much you can say about Paris that hasn’t already been said, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be reiterated. One of the world’s premier city break destinations can offer everything you would look for on a holiday of this kind. Iconic attractions? Tick.

Numerous opportunities to discover history and culture? Double tick.

Fantastic restaurants, shopping and nightlife? Tick, tick and tick.

You might start off with typical activities like climbing the Eiffel Tower, musing over the Mona Lisa or avoiding the gaze of the gargoyles at Notre-Dame Cathedral, but extended or return visits could see you exploring the creepy catacombs, marvelling at Monets on the walls of the Petit Palais or snap enviable pictures from the top of Montparnasse Tower.

Highlights • Eiffel Tower – Be sure to book in advance if you plan to climb this iconic structure and don’t miss the dazzling light show at night.

• Arc de Triomphe – Many choose to admire this monument from afar but inside there is an interesting museum and the very top provides fantastic views over Paris.

• Louvre – There’s enough art here to keep you busy for three days.

Choose what you want to see most first so you don’t miss out.

• Sacré-Coeur – After France lost a war against the Prussians in 1870, this beautiful church was built to try and counteract the country’s misfortunes.

• Notre-Dame Cathedral – Situated on a natural island in the middle of the Seine, this is one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £399pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 2nd July 2019.

39

Germany

city break destinations, whilst smaller towns such as Rothenburg and Rüdesheim offer fantastic charm and fairytale beauty.

Excellent transport links make it easy to navigate between places, resulting in Germany being the perfect destination for a multi-centre break. Popular tourist routes that are themed on things like wine and castles are a great way to experience multiple areas whilst still following a well-trodden path.

The vast array of different landscapes makes Germany an excellent holiday destination, whatever it is you like to do when you go away. Spa towns provide a pleasing setting in which to relax, national parks and areas like the Black Forest are a walker’s paradise, each and every town and city has a wealth of history just waiting to be discovered, and even the food is so much better than a lot of people give it credit for.

The urban areas are a mixture of powerful metropolises that run like clockwork and smaller settlements edged by defensive walls and with medieval buildings at their heart. Head to more rural parts and you will be greeted by sweeping vineyards and Alpine scenery. This is where ageold traditions are held in high esteem, where artisans thrive to keep the production techniques of the past alive, and where the country’s underrated nature spots show their true worth.

And if you’re wondering how these distinct destinations are connected, a great selection of tourist routes string them together with themes such as the fairytales of the Brothers Grimm, wine and football.

Germany has everything you could ever wish for in a holiday. Its towns and cities are full of history and culture, there are expansive green areas that are perfect for getting closer to nature, many waterways run through the country to forge routes for river cruises, theme parks rival magical places like Disneyland, and there are even pristine beaches on the North Sea coast.

Whatever you are looking for in a trip abroad, Germany can provide the answer. The cool and cultured capital of Berlin is one of Europe’s favourite

And then there’s the food. German cuisine often gets dismissed as bland and boring, but specialities such as sauerbraten and schnitzel will soon show that hearty, homemade dishes can be exciting too. And that’s without mentioning the many different types of wurst that give each city its own distinct flavour. If you’re looking for something to wash all that down with, Germany can offer a wide range of locally produced wine and beer to enjoy. From the fabled smoked beer of Bamberg to the beautifully crisp Rieslings made in the Rhine Valley, there is something for every taste.

If you make your visit at the end of the year, Germany is transformed into a glittering wonderland of Christmas markets. Every town, city and village has its own version which usually features locally crafted gifts and culinary specialities that delight the senses. The festive scene is set thanks to live carol performances, twinkling decorations, and welcome visits from the main man in the red suit. There are also plenty of activities for children to enjoy, including fairground rides, arts and crafts, and petting zoos.

The exciting events are not just reserved for the Christmas period, though.

Germany hosts a wide range of festivals and other celebrations throughout the year that honour age old traditions and bring people together. Whether it’s an historic beer festival, an important trade fair or a temporary art exhibition, the calendar is usually packed with plenty to see and do.

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Germany

Baden-Baden Things have changed a lot here since the celebrities and aristocrats of the 1800s would make Baden-Baden their destination for a summer full of bathing, betting and being entertained at the races. However, that doesn’t mean this is any less of a fantastic city to discover. Still famous for the natural waters which flow through a number of different spas, this destination on the edge of the Black Forest is now a centre of culture and beauty.

Gardens and waterside walks (see Lichtentaler Allee below) increase the romance and mean there is always somewhere peaceful and calming to wander. Museums and performing art venues offer the chance for a night at the opera or an afternoon at an open-air music event, whilst a host of elaborate buildings provide a window into the lavish past.

None more so than the colonnaded casino that still attracts the rich and famous today.

Highlights • Festival Hall Baden-Baden – With space for 2,500 visitors, this is the largest opera house in Germany.

• Lichtentaler Allee – Stroll alongside the River Oos, crossing over bridges and taking in the fresh scent of multi-coloured blooms.

• Friedrichsbad Spa – Bathe beneath curative waters underneath stunning frescoes in a spa that first opened in 1877.

• Roman Bath Ruins – Once you’ve relaxed in the modern day spa, take a look at where it all started. These ruins lie underneath Friedrichsbad and were once used by Roman soldiers.

• City Museum Baden-Baden – Take a deeper look into the past as you study Roman artifacts, artworks and monuments.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Four nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

Did you know?

From £379pp

Mark Twain once said of the Baden-Baden spas – “after 10 minutes you forget time, after 20 minutes the world.”

Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 4th June 2019.

41

Germany

Bavaria & Franconia Bavaria conjures up traditional images of Germany – women in dirndls and men in lederhosen quaffing large steins of beer. But there’s much more to the country’s largest state than stereotypical dress and drinking customs. Having said that, beer definitely plays an important part in life here, with every town and city bursting with pride over their very own brew – all of which adhere to purity laws that have been in place for more than 500 years and many of which are celebrated at the annual Oktoberfest.

Although not an official state, the region of Franconia is still widely recognised and its people are fiercely proud of the fact they are Franconian. Although it’s part of Bavaria, it has its own dialect, culinary staples and historical sights that showcase its former position at the centre of the Holy Roman Empire. Cities such as Bamberg and Rothenberg ob der Tauber are definite highlights.

Bavaria’s importance in Germany is born out of the fact that it used to be its own autonomous kingdom. Until 1918, it battled for superiority with Prussia and, today, you can still see castles built by Ludwig II to demonstrate the state’s wealth and power.

Bavaria is also famous for its Alpine landscapes, which create a stark contrast between bustling cities such as Munich and Nuremberg.

Whilst thrill-seekers and outdoor adventurers can enjoy skiing or hiking, others can go in search of history and culture on the Marienplatz. If you are looking for a multi-centre break, though, consider a drive along the Romantic Road. As one of Germany’s most famous tourist routes, it snakes its way through Bavaria to provide an itinerary of charming villages and towns that typify German culture.

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Salzburg Berchtesgarden

Germany - Bavaria & Franconia

Altötting

Did you know?

One of the hearts kept inside the Chapel of Grace belongs to the fairy tale King Ludwig II, the ruler responsible for the beautiful Neuschwanstein Castle.

Altötting is to Germany what Lourdes is to France – a small town that has earnt its name as a pilgrimage destination. It may not be as famous as the town nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees, but more than one million visitors still arrive every year to see the ‘Black Madonna’ with their own eyes. This wooden statue of the Virgin Mary is held inside the Chapel of Grace, along with the hearts of various Bavarian Dukes, Kings and Electors.

Another pilgrimage site nearby is Einsiedeln, a fellow member of the Shrines of Europe, the most important Marian Pilgrimage sites in Europe.

The members are Czestochowa, Lourdes, Loreto, Fatima, Mariazell, Altötting and Einsiedeln.

Einsiedeln is located in the heart of Central Switzerland close to Zurich.

The Benedictine Abbey of Einsiedeln is the most important baroque building in Switzerland. Since the Middle Ages the Chapel of Our Lady with the famous Black Madonna is one of the most important pilgrimage places in Europe. The Region around Einsiedeln is a true paradise for all kinds of sports, activities, tradition and culture.

Highlights • Gnadenkapelle (Chapel of Grace), Altötting – A woman is said to have brought her child in front of the statue and begged for him to be returned to her after he drowned. Miraculously, the child open his eyes.

• Jerusalem Panorama, Altötting– A 360-dregree mural of the Crucifixion of Christ by Gebhard Fugel can be seen here. It is the only one of its kind still in existence.

• Basilika St. Anna, Altötting – This is the largest church built in Germany during the 20th century. It has an ornate organ dedicated to Mary.

• Monastery Einsiedeln with the Chapel of Our Lady, Einsiedeln.

Suggested holiday:

In the footsteps of the shrines of Europe Daily departures available

The Black Madonna of Altötting

Chapel Square of Altötting

• Impressive baroque abbey Library, Einsiedeln.

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Zurich - Einsiedeln 2. Einsiedeln 3. Einsiedeln - Bregenz 4. Bregenz 5. Bregenz - Munich 6. Munich 7. Munich - Altötting 8. Altötting 9. Altötting - Salzburg 10.Salzburg

What's Included • 10 nights' 3* accommodation • Private overseas transfers • Return flights from the UK

From £1,499pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 3rd June 2019.

The Benedictine Abbey of Einsiedeln

11.Salzburg - Arrive UK

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Germany - Bavaria & Franconia

Bamberg & Würzburg Regularly listed as one of Germany’s most idyllic small towns, Bamberg will bring you under its spell with a mix of romantic streets and picturesque canals. Having avoided major damage during the Second World War, the Old Town is the country’s largest intact example of a medieval settlement and has therefore been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As well as the cultural sights, Bamberg is famous for its smoked beer which was accidentally created after barley was burnt in a fire.

Like Bamberg, Würzburg’s nightlife is fuelled by a large student population. But while the cafés and bars receive most people’s attention at night, it is the stunning Residence Palace that captivates everyone during the day. Add the commanding Marienberg Fortress and various museums and it’s easy to see how history comes to life on the banks of the Main River.

Highlights • Bamberg Old Town Hall – After the Bishop of Bamberg refused to grant land on which to build a town hall, the residents built it on stilts over the River Regnitz.

• Bamberg Cathedral – With four imposing towers, the cathedral is built in various different styles. It houses many important works of art.

• Würzburg Residence – An impressive palace, the Residence is home to Venetian art and a beautiful, sweeping staircase.

• Würzburg’s Marienburg Fortress – Towering over the city, the complex features two museums, a round church, a dungeon and a stately garden.

• Bürgerspital Weinstuben, Würzburg – Taste some of the region’s famous wines without having to leave the city centre. There is white wine in the cellar dating all the way back to 1540.

44

Did you know?

The largest ceiling fresco in the world, painted by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, can be found above the main staircase at the Würzburg Residence.

Suggested break: Bamberg Daily departures available

Four nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, return rail travel from Frankfurt to Bamberg & return flights from the UK

From £489pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 6th June 2019.

Suggested break: Würzburg Daily departures available

Four nights' 3* accommodation, return rail travel from Frankfurt to Würzburg & return flights from the UK

From £459pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 3rd July 2019.

Germany - Bavaria & Franconia

Explore the Romantic Road

Germany has many different tourist routes that lead you to a selection of locations linked by a theme, but this is arguably the most famous. The Romantic Road stretches for over 250 miles between the cities of Würzburg and Füssen and there are some fantastic sights to see along the way. Each destination gives you a new reason to pull over and explore, from beautiful churches to interesting museums and fairytale castles.

Places like Augsburg, Schongau and Dinkelsbühl would probably never have crossed your path, but being part of the Romantic Road highlights them, and the many others, as the sparkling gems that they are. Most people choose to drive the route (or parts of it) themselves but it’s also possible to take a bus or even cycle.

Did you know?

Creglingen, close to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, is home to a thimble museum containing 4,000 different pieces.

Highlights • Neuschwanstein Castle – One of the stand-out attractions on the route, this is supposedly the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle.

• Rothenburg ob der Tauber – This charming town has a beautifully intact medieval city wall and looks as though it’s been taken straight out of a post card.

• Wieskirche – The ‘White Church’ is a popular pilgrimage destination and marks the Romantic Road’s entry into the Alps.

• Landberg am Lech – Enter through the dramatic Gothic gateway and discover a town that has barely changed in the last 850 years.

• Fuggerei, Augsburg – This historic gated community is the oldest of its kind in existence. The residents pay the same amount in rent as those who first lived there – 1 Rhenish Guilder (88 cents).

Suggested holiday: Romantic Road and Castles Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Frankfurt - Würzburg 2. Würzburg - Rothenburg ob der Tauber 3. Rothenburg - Dinkelsbühl - Augsburg 4. Augsburg - Füssen - Neuschwanstein 5. Füssen - Linderhof - Oberammergau - Munich - Arrive UK

What's Included • Four nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast • Economy-category rental car for the duration of your stay • Return flights from the UK

From £999pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 6th March 2019.

45

Did you know?

The entrance of Munich’s Frauenkirche features a footprint which is said to have been left by the Devil.

Germany - Bavaria & Franconia

Munich

As Bavaria’s capital, Munich is at the forefront of the things for which the state is famous – beer and lederhosen – and it’s not just during Oktoberfest that these can be enjoyed. The quirky nature of the city means that attempts to look past the stereotypes are quickly quashed by the sight of a traditionally dressed oompah band serenading a group of revellers, each with a maß in their hand.

There is a slightly more serious side to Munich, though, demonstrated by its penchant for art. An entire district, The Kunstareal, is dedicated to fascinating museums and galleries that shouldn’t be missed. And, if the thought of gazing at paintings doesn’t rev your engine, the chance to step inside the BMW factory will surely get your motor running.

Highlights • English Garden – A popular picnic spot during the summer months, this romantic public park will make you forget you’re in the centre of a bustling metropolis.

• Frauenkirche – The twin onion domes of the cathedral are a true image of Munich. Climb the south tower for some great views.

• Alte Pinakothek – This is one of the most famous art galleries in the world and features work created throughout the middle ages from all around Europe.

• Bavaria Film Studios – Europe’s largest filmmaking studios displays props from a whole host of different films. You can even climb on the back of Falkor from The Neverending Story.

• BMW Welt – Petrol heads will love the chance to take a look back at some of the classic models produced by the automobile giant.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £399pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 15th June 2019.

46

Did you know?

The Henkerhaus museum displays information about the life of Nuremberg’s most famous executioner, Franz Schmidt. It’s held in his former residence, a charming building overlooking the river.

Germany - Bavaria & Franconia

Nuremberg

If it’s history that you’re looking for, you’ve found your next city break. Nuremberg has a fantastic wealth of beautiful buildings and lofty spires that reach towards the sky, the breathtaking nature of which is only increased when you consider that many of these were meticulously rebuilt following the war.

Greats such as Albrecht Dürer and Martin Luther have both left legacies here, the latter referring to the city as Germany’s ‘eyes and ears’ thanks to its integral role in the early days of publishing. Dürer, one of several artists to be inspired by Nuremberg’s sights, was born here and it’s possible to visit one of his former homes.

If you’re looking for other reasons to visit the unofficial capital of Franconia, any city that has three sausages in a bread roll as one of its local specialities definitely gets our vote.

Highlights • Nuremberg Castle – Built to house many of the German kings (and other royals passing through the area), the sprawling complex is a symbol of the Holy Roman Empire’s strength.

• Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds – The city that once hosted Nazi Party rallies is now home to a thought-provoking museum on how these were used to bring Hitler to power.

• Frauenkirche – One of the most exciting features of this church is the Männleinlaufen mechanical clock. Each day at noon it puts on a performance for spectators.

• Zum Guldenen Stern – This is thought to be the oldest restaurant in the world dedicated to selling the Nuremberg bratwurst.

• Ehekarussell – This somewhat provocative fountain tells the story of a couple from dating until death do they part.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £399pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 2nd April 2019.

47

Did you know?

Bürsten-Ernst is a brush shop found on Regensburg’s streets.

Owned by the same family since 1894, it sells every type of brush imaginable.

Germany - Bavaria & Franconia

Regensburg

Regensburg has been surprising tourists and Germans alike for many years now, as few choose to venture this far off the beaten track.

However, those that do are rewarded with the chance to explore a beautiful city with over 2,000 years of history to boast. Having escaped severe damage during WWII, its well-preserved Old Town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006. Keen to conserve its medieval look, any repair works are carried out in accordance to strict rules that dictate the materials and colours used.

Having said that, this is by no means a museum city. Whilst there are clear signs of the past, a large student population gives Regensburg a modern face-lift. The summer months invite picnics along the banks of the Danube, in the shadow and the famous Stone Bridge, and major industry in the form of BMW and Siemens ensures jobs and financial stability.

Highlights • Old Stone Bridge – Local traders have crossed this bridge for hundreds of years. The last remaining tower features paintings of the Thirty Years’ War. • St Peter's Cathedral – Whether it’s by the medieval stained glass windows or the voices of the Regensburger Domspatzen choir, you’ll be blown away on a visit to this cathedral.

• Porta Praetoria – Hidden amongst the maze of cobbled streets, this is one of the original city gates used by the Romans.

• Walhalla – Travel a few miles out of the city to see this monument dedicated to famous German figures. It is built to resemble the Parthenon and can be reached by river cruise.

• Herzogspark – A rare patch of greenery in this stone city, the Herzogspark is a place to relax and includes rose, Alpine and botanical gardens.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation, return rail travel from Munich to Regensburg & return flights from the UK

From £389pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 14th May 2019.

48

Germany - Bavaria & Franconia

Rothenburg ob der Tauber Of all the medieval towns and cities dotted around Germany, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is largely considered to be the most charming. Half-timbered houses line the cobbled streets, city walls still stand almost entirely intact and there’s a fairytale ambiance around every corner you turn. The ‘ob der Tauber’ part of the city’s name refers to the fact that it stands high above the river Tauber, a position that places it in the middle of two historic trade routes.

Another name given to this gem is ‘The Christmas Town’. This is due to the fact that it hosts one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany and also offers year-round Yuletide at the Käthe Wohlfahrt shop and the Christmas Museum.

Highlights • City Walls – Travel back in time and explore the well-preserved city walls. There are also 42 towers to see along the way.

• St. Jakob’s Church – Inside this stunning church, you’ll find the wooden Altar of the Holy Blood, carved to represent the Last Supper.

There’s also a breathtaking 700-year-old stained glass window.

• Medieval Crime Museum – Look back on 100 years of heavy-handed punishment, including the gory details of how torture devices were used to bring about confessions.

• Plönlein – This little square is the perfect spot to capture a quintessential picture of Rothenburg.

• Night Watchman Tour – Be led around the town by the mysterious night watchman. He’ll share stories of the town’s past and a few gruesome tales.

Did you know?

The Ratstrinkstube clock tells the story of a former town mayor who saved Rothenburg from the tyranny of Count Tilly by drinking an entire tankard (over three litres) of wine in one go.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Four nights 3* accommodation including breakfast, return rail travel from Nuremberg to Rothenburg ob der Tauber & return flights from the UK

From £409pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 17th May 2019.

49

Germany

Berlin Berlin is not just the capital of Germany but the cool capital of Europe – a place that sets trends and truly has something for everyone. Stylish Kreuzburg is the ideal place for an upmarket meal, Charlottenburg offers the chance to shop ‘til you drop and there’s a plethora of art to be found on the streets and in the galleries of Friedrichshain.

There’s no escaping the city’s past, but the remnants that do remain deal with this subject respectfully. Sure, you can appreciate important sights such as the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie but these now represent how Berlin has changed for the better and not the reasons for which it was once divided.

One of the great things about a city of this size is that there is always something happening, no matter what time of the year you visit. That could be a spring music festival, a New Year’s firework display or the annual Long Night of the Museums, where some of the most interesting cultural attractions stay open into the early hours, but the point is that you’ll never run out of things to see and do.

However, if you do manage to exhaust the fantastic museums, brilliant art galleries and world-renowned monuments, a trip to nearby Potsdam will open up a palatial paradise with yet more activities to keep you busy.

Highlights • Reichstag – The seat of the German government is an instantly recognisable building. You can climb to the top of its dome for free after booking a time slot.

• Museum Island – There are so many museums in Berlin but many of the must-see attractions are located on this island. It’s also where you’ll find the beautiful Berlin Cathedral – which isn’t actually a cathedral.

• Checkpoint Charlie – This guardhouse still stands in the middle of the road where East and West Germany were once separated.

• Charlottenburg Palace – This stunning palace may be on the outskirts of the city but it is easily reached via Berlin’s metro system. Its splendid appearance was modelled on Versailles.

• Tempelhofer Feld – Formerly Tempelhof Airport, the space has been reborn as one of the largest urban parks in Europe. It’s a prime spot for picnics and joggers.

Did you know?

Around a third of Berlin is made up by green spaces (parks, lakes, forests), giving you plenty of space for outdoor activities such as cycling and kayaking.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, four-day Berlin Welcome Card & return flights from the UK

From £349pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 10th June 2019.

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Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Berlin 2. Berlin 3. Berlin - Celle 4. Celle 5. Celle - Hamburg 6. Hamburg 7. Hamburg - Arrive UK

What's Included • Six nights' 4* accommodation • Rail travel from Berlin to Celle • Rail travel from Celle to Hamburg • Return flights from the UK

From £749pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 10th June 2019.

51

Germany - Black Forest

Freiburg, Triberg & Titisee-Neustadt If you enjoy exploring the outdoors, the Black Forest is your oyster.

This beautiful region is littered with excellent walking routes and other opportunities to get around using bikes, toboggans and even zip lines.

The diverse Alpine landscapes mean there is always something new to look at or a breathtaking image to capture.

Then, when you need a break from adventure, there are a number of cute towns and cities to explore in the region. These not only offer a look at the history and culture of the Black Forest but also give you the perfect excuse to try some of the legendary gateau or air-dried ham. Freiburg is the biggest destination in the area and its picturesque streets are a delight to wander through. But don’t discount smaller places like Triberg and Titisee-Neustadt, the latter of which is a relaxing spa town.

Highlights • Freiburg Munster – This Gothic cathedral has a spire reaching 380 feet into the sky. The Freiburg market is also held in the little square surrounding it.

• Schlossbergbahn, Freiburg – Travel from urban streets to verdant hills in a matter of minutes thanks to this cable car. You can also enjoy fantastic views from the nearby Schlossbergturm.

• Badeparadies Schwarzwald, Titisee – This giant spa complex offers wellness treatments to help you unwind and thrilling waterslides for the adventurous.

• Seestrasse, Titisee – This pedestrian promenade takes you along the shores of Lake Titisee, past numerous cafés, bars and souvenir shops.

• The House Of 1000 Clocks, Triberg – Drop by to see the fantastic array of traditional Black Forest Cuckoo Clocks. The shop sells the world’s smallest cuckoo clocks for people to take away as mementos.

Did you know?

Freiburg’s Bächle (small irrigation channels running through the streets) were originally used to put out fires. A local legend says that if you accidentally step in one you will marry someone from the city.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Frankfurt - Baden-Baden 2. Baden-Baden 3. Baden-Baden - Lake Titisee - Freiburg 4. Freiburg - Colmar - Strasbourg 5. Strasbourg - Heidelberg - Frankfurt - Arrive UK

What's Included • Four nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast • Economy-category rental car for the duration of your stay • Return flights from the UK

From £999pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 15th March 2019.

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Did you know?

Whilst a massive 180 million cubic metres of drinking water is removed from the lake by numerous treatment systems every year, more still evaporates naturally from this giant reservoir.

Germany

Bodensee (Lake Constance) The Swiss call it Lake Constance, but if you choose to stay on the German side you will hear it referred to as Bodensee. This spectacular natural area is home to so much and offers access to four different countries, including the small principality of Liechtenstein.

Summer holidays in places like Lindau, Konstanz and Friedrichshafen can be filled with lazy afternoons by the lake, gentle journeys across its surface on board the Belle Époque ships and slow-paced bike rides along the shoreline. The microclimate here means the air is warmer than other regions nearby. This creates the perfect condition for growing fruit and the produce is proudly sold by roadsides and on charming streets.

Highlights • Mainau Island – Vibrant colours bring this ‘flower island’ to life. At the centre stands a beautiful Baroque palace.

• Rhine Falls – Europe’s largest waterfall shows the power of the Rhine River. Boats can take you closer to the action and there’s also a zipline over the rapids.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Zürich - Kreuzlingen 2. Kreuzlingen 3. Kreuzlingen - Romanshorn 4. Romanshorn 5. Romanshorn - Zürich 6. Zürich - Arrive UK

• Weiße Flotte Ships – The best way to get from one side of the lake to the other is on board the fleet of ‘White Ships’. Four operators provide services to various towns and cities at the lake’s edge.

What's Included

• Bodensee-Rundwanderweg – Whether you choose to explore this trail on two feet or two wheels, it’s a great way to see natural and urban sights.

• Economy-category rental car for the duration of your stay

• Lindau’s Harbour – The Mangturm Tower (former lighthouse) welcomes you to Lindau harbour where you can enjoy some of the best views across the lake.

• Five nights' 4* accommodation • Return flights from the UK

From £799pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 7th May 2019.

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Germany

Bremen Bremen’s former status as a maritime powerhouse is clear for all to see.

Modern boats drift along the scenic Weser River, past ships of the past that have been turned into museums to remind everyone of the influence held by the Hanseatic League during an era when trade was at its peak.

The popular Schlachte Promenade runs alongside the city’s cherished waterway, providing the perfect vantage point from which to admire the vessels whilst sipping a refreshing local tipple in an adjacent beer garden.

Bremen’s historical appeal doesn’t end there, though, as there are other neighbourhoods that showcase interesting links to the past. The most well-known of these is the Schnoor Quarter, home to rows of 15th and 16th century houses that have been converted into shops and cafés, leading you through narrow alleys and postcard worthy streets.

Then there’s the city centre. Here, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to jaw-dropping architecture, as the striking Town Hall, cathedral and the guild house draw your eyes in every direction. It’s no surprise that this area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Close by, you’ll see a statue that shows another side of Bremen – fairy tales. There are signs of myths and legends all over the city but the Bremen Town Musicians (a donkey, dog, cat and rooster standing on each other’s shoulders) have become the unofficial symbol. The fact that this Brothers Grimm tale is set in Bremen cements its position at the end of the fairytale tourist route.

Finally, you may wish to plan your trip to Bremen in time for one of the many events that take place. As well as the beautiful Christmas markets, there are no less than three beer festivals throughout the year, during which the residents well and truly let their hair down.

Highlights • Town Hall and Roland Statue – Of all the celebrated buildings here, the Town Hall is one of the most striking. In front, stands a statue of Roland to symbolise Bremen’s status as a free city.

• Böttcherstrasse – Another quaint street down which to stroll, this one is where you will find local craftsman demonstrating their skills and selling their wares.

• Universum Science Center – This museum hopes to inspire children and adults alike by helping them take a closer look at scientific phenomena.

• A guided tour of the Mercedes-Benz plant reveals how these prestigious vehicles are made and what makes the brand so special. It provides an opportunity to look behind the scenes at one of the most modern automotive factories in the world.

• Beck’s Brewery – Take a look around the headquarters of this brewing giant and see every part of the process. Don’t leave without visiting the tasting room.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, ErlebnisCARD travel card & return flights from the UK

From £259pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 5th March 2019.

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Did you know?

A stone in the Domshof square marks the spot where the last person to be beheaded in Bremen was executed. A local custom sees people spit on the stone in disdain for her criminal actions.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Bremen 2. Bremen 3. Bremen - Hanover 4. Hanover 5. Hanover - Kassel 6. Kassel - Frankfurt 7. Frankfurt 8. Frankfurt - Arrive UK

What's Included • Seven nights' 4* accommodation • Economy-category rental car for the duration of your stay • Return flights from the UK

From £749pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 13th March 2019.

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Germany

Bremerhaven New life has been breathed into Bremerhaven recently thanks to the completion of the Havenwelt project. Having rejuvenated much of the harbour area, it now acts as an intriguing juxtaposition between modern buildings and those that highlight the port city’s maritime past. This place has certainly come a long way since it was merely seen as Bremen’s harbour (which is where the name comes from).

Stepping away from the water for a bit, there are also some fantastic museums to discover. See where the journey started for many of the immigrants heading to New York’s Ellis Island at the German Emigration Centre and then experience all the world’s weather in the unique Climate House.

Highlights • German Maritime Museum – See model ships and historical wrecks as you take a trip through the city’s maritime past.

• Zoo at the Sea – Get the chance to see creatures of the deep up close. The zoo is a home to polar bears, penguins, seals and more.

• Climate House® - Take a journey around the planet while experiencing weather extremes from various different climates. It also offers a powerful insight into global warming.

• Fischräucherei Franke – You’ve seen the ships and learnt their history, now taste their catch in one of the last remaining places still cooking fish over traditional coals.

• SAIL City Viewing Platform – Make your way up to the public platform on floor 20 and 21 of this hotel for wonderful panoramas over the port.

Did you know?

Seaside City Festival - Shore Leave Bremerhaven takes place from May 23rd – 26th. The four-day event features live music, street food, maritime traditions and an ‘open ship’ policy on many of the vessels.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Bremen 2. Bremen - Bremerhaven 3. Bremerhaven 4. Bremerhaven - Hamburg 5. Hamburg 6. Hamburg - Arrive UK

What's Included • Five nights' 4* accommodation • Economy-category rental car for the duration of your stay • Return flights from the UK

From £649pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 26th March 2019.

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Explore Germany and stay in the comfort of a Maritim Hotel

For more information visit www.fredholidays.co.uk/maritim-hotels

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Did you know?

Former mayor, Konrad Adenauer, created a brand new shade of green to make some of the city’s bridges stand out. ‘Kölner Grün’ was first produced in 1929 and still adorns the Mülheim, Severins, Zoo and Deutzer bridges.

Germany

Cologne Cologne is home to one of Germany’s most popular attractions, the jaw-dropping Gothic cathedral, but there is so much more to see besides this architectural beauty. On the banks of the River Rhine, you’ll find a city that’s effortlessly welcoming and easy to explore. The people always have time to ingratiate you into their traditions, usually with a glass of Kölsch in one hand.

This local beer is just one of the three ‘K’s that make Cologne tick. Arrive in February and you’ll find yourself right in the middle of celebrations for one of the other two, Karneval. This event is seen as the Rhineland’s fifth season and involves plenty of silliness, frivolity and sweet throwing. The final ‘K’ refers to the famous fragrance ‘4711 Eau de Cologne’ or, as it’s known here, Kölnisch Wasser.

If you’re looking for the more serious or historical side of this wonderful destination, there are plenty of places to find it. A number of churches in ruin show the aftermath of World War II, whilst various museums highlight the influence of the Romans and artist movements such as pop art and surrealism.

Highlights • Cologne Cathedral – You can’t miss this iconic attraction…literally.

Located right outside the train station, it’s home to the Shrine of the Three Kings.

• Roman-Germanic Museum – Among the fascinating artefacts on show is a large collection of Roman jewellery and a stunning mosaic depicting Dionysus.

• Hohenzollern Bridge – Arrive by train and this is the first sight you’ll see.

The bridge embraces the current trend of love locks and has thousands chained to it.

• Ludwig Museum – Amongst the big draws in this gallery is the thirdlargest collection of Picasso’s works in the world.

• Rheinpark – Enjoy life by the river in this beautiful green area. It’s a great place for a romantic stroll or you can take to the skies courtesy of the cable car.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation & return flights from the UK

From £349pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 11th June 2019.

Germany

Dresden Comparisons to both Florence and Venice, due to its riverside location and architectural wonders, by no means flatter Dresden and go some way to describing the beauty of a city rebuilt from the ashes of World War II. You can’t move for charming churches, stunning stately buildings and pretty palaces but you’ll never tire of turning the corner to be faced by another historic gem.

The beautiful Elbe snakes through the city, creating a natural divide between the historic Old Town and the modern student quarter in the Austere Neustadt. In this part of the city, you’re more likely to find trendy bars, cute little coffee houses and quirky fashion shops.

Highlights

Did you know?

Dresden is home to the oldest suspension railway in the world. The Schwebebahn hangs from its track rather than traveling on top of it.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Berlin - Dresden 2. Dresden 3. Dresden - Leipzig 4. Leipzig

• Zwinger – Built by Augustus the Strong in the 18th century, this glorious Baroque building now houses many treasures in various different museums.

5. Leipzig - Berlin - Arrive UK

• Frauenkirche – The only building in Dresden more recognisable than the Zwinger, the church was rebuilt after WWII as a symbol of peace and hope.

• Four nights' 4* accommodation

• Fürstenzug (Procession of Princes) – Ceramic tiles from nearby Meissen are used to create a mural depicting the 35 noblemen of the Wettin Dynasty. Find it on Augustusstrasse.

• Kunsthofpassage – This passage can be found in the Neustadt and will take you through various different courtyards, each of which has its own artistic theme.

What's Included • Rail travel from Berlin to Dresden Central Station • Rail travel from Dresden Central Station to Leipzig Central Station • Rail travel from Leipzig Central Station to Berlin • Return flights from the UK

From £549pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 7th May 2019.

• Panometer – Step inside this circular theatre to see panoramas of what Dresden would have looked like before and after the war.

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Germany

Düsseldorf Known for being an important centre of business, Düsseldorf also has a fun side. You only have to consider the fact that the Old Town has earnt the nickname ‘Longest Bar in the World’ to realise that there’s more to this city than commerce. A night spent in one or two of the over 300 traditional brewhouses, modern clubs and quirky cocktail joints can be remedied by a peaceful stroll along the Rhine promenade that spans the entire river bank.

Walking through the streets, admiring the historic and modern architecture, can almost have the same effect as a few pints of local Altbier. A heady mix of buildings from the mind of Frank Gehry and those built centuries before will have you skipping over the cobbles in anticipation of what could be next. And that’s before you even get to the famous high-end shopping street known as the Königsallee.

Highlights • Castle Tower - The old castle tower houses the SchifffahrtMuseum (shipping museum), which shows 2,000 years of navigation on the Rhine and on the very top there is a Café which is just perfect for coffee and cake in the afternoon.

• North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection – This artistic institution is made up of three different galleries: the K20, K21 and Schmela Haus.

• Hofgarten – The sprawling urban park is very relaxing and features lakes, tree-lined alleys and quiet corners to escape the big city.

• Mustard Museum – so many varieties of Germany’s favourite condiment to try, so little time.

• Unterbilk with the Lorettostrasse - You’ll find plenty of trendy shops in Unterbilk, on Lorettostraße and in Bilk. Located directly beside the popular MedienHafen, small streets lined with pretty trees and lovingly restored old buildings create a distinctive atmosphere.

Did you know?

Even though it is the second-largest city in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Düsseldorf was named the capital because it received the least damage during the war.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, four-day Düsseldorf Card & return flights from the UK

From £299pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 14th May 2019.

60

Did you know?

Due to its towering skyline, Frankfurt has been given the nickname ‘Mainhattan’. This plays on the fact that it resembles New York’s Manhattan and is on the River Main.

Germany

Frankfurt & Heidelberg Frankfurt may be known as an international business hub but it is so much more than that as well. The locals’ love of Ebbelwei (cider) and green sauce shows the city’s culinary side and the traditional pubs in which you can savour them prove there’s as much time for social gettogethers as there is straight-laced business meetings. Then there’s the history. This is largely focussed on the beautiful Römerberg, a charming square that highlights Frankfurt’s ability to do half-timbered houses as well as it does cavernous skyscrapers.

Students flock to Heidelberg’s university hoping to become the next Goethe or William Turner, two creative geniuses who were inspired by the romance of the city during their time. Whilst the popular (and Germany’s largest) academic institute represents modern Heidelberg, the vibrant red bricks of the Old Town and the castle which looms above it take you back to the Renaissance.

Highlights

Suggested break: Frankfurt Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, return rail travel from Frankfurt Airport to Frankfurt Central & return flights from the UK

• Buildings on the Römerberg, Frankfurt – The heart of medieval Frankfurt, this famous square is home to the Town Hall and is where many different markets are held.

From £349pp

• Museum Embankment, Frankfurt – Some of the best museums in Europe line up alongside the river for you to enjoy. These include the German Film Museum, Museum of World Cultures and Museum of Applied Art.

Suggested break: Heidelberg

• Goethe House and Museum – Not found on the museum embankment but still worth visiting, this is where poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe lived for 16 years.

• Heidelberg Castle – This is actually two different castles on the same hillside setting. The fact that they are both in ruin doesn’t stop millions of tourists visiting every year.

• Old Bridge, Heidelberg – This impressive stone bridge features many towers and monuments. There’s also a monkey statue which people touch for good luck.

Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 4th June 2019.

Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, return rail travel from Frankfurt Airport to Heidelburg Central & return flights from the UK

From £379pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 11th June 2019.

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Germany

Hamburg Hamburg hasn’t forgotten the maritime trade on which the city’s fortunes were built and many of its attractions hark back to this time. The harbour is one of the most popular districts to explore, a place where new and old combine in the form of the UNESCO-listed warehouses on the Speicherstadt and the much more recently created Elbphilharmonie. The latter is a standout part of the widespread HafenCity district, a project that has breathed new life into Hamburg’s port.

Did you know?

Each ship arriving into the harbour is welcomed by the sound of the national anthem from where it is registered and sent on its way by the international symbol for ‘bon voyage’.

The same things that make Hamburg one of Germany’s most liveable cities are what attract large numbers of visitors throughout the year. The sinful mile known as the Reeperbahn is there for a night to remember, whilst excellent shopping, relaxing green spaces and historic monuments like the cathedral give you plenty to do during the day.

Highlights • Elbphilharmonie – It’s not just the beauty of the musical performances inside that you can admire, the building itself is a stunner too.

• Miniatur Wunderland – Recently named Germany’s number one attraction, this magical place showcases life in miniature in Hamburg and other cities around the world.

Daily departures available

• International Maritime Museum – Learn about the fascinating history of Hamburg as well as mankind’s unique relationship with the ocean.

Three nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast & return flights from the UK

• RIB Piraten – Tour the harbour at high speed for an adrenaline-filled look at the ships and buildings that characterise this part of the city.

From £369pp

• Hamburger Kunsthalle – Works by such greats as Rembrandt and Edvard Munch line the halls of three art galleries under this collective name.

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Suggested break:

Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 4th June 2019.

Germany

Historic Highlights of Germany Aimed at raising the profile of cities which are located off the tourist track, The Historical Highlights of Germany is a collection of towns and cities brought together by the presence of fascinating history.

Whilst names like Heidelberg and Regensburg will be familiar to most, interesting destinations such as Lübeck and Osnabrück represent those that may not be on your radar.

And the name doesn’t lie either. History is well and truly alive in these areas – from Roman ruins to sites related to the Reformation. Spread across the entire nation, you’ll be able to find Historical Highlights on the Baltic shores of Rostock and the Black Forest, Freiburg. The initiative has been helping travellers discover UNESCO-listed sights and must-see attractions for more than 40 years.

Highlights • Tübingen – The newest member to the club can offer beautiful halftimbered houses in a riverside setting.

• Trier – A hotbed for Roman ruins, Trier is one of the oldest cities in Germany.

• Münster – Definitely one for art lovers, Münster has a Picasso Museum and many nods to contemporary flare. It’s also Germany’s bicycle capital.

• Bonn – A former capital of Germany, Bonn is the birthplace of Beethoven. The Museum Mile gives you plenty of chance to discover its history.

• Lübeck – A commanding medieval gate welcomes you to this beautiful city. It has remained largely unchanged for centuries and has many a story to tell behind its walls.

Did you know?

Aachen is the birthplace of the legendary leader Charlemagne, King of the Frankish.

Contact your travel agent, call 0800 988 3369 or email sales@fredholidays.co.uk

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Germany

Leipzig Leipzig’s recent injection of youthful zest has led it to rival even Berlin for trendiness. A new wave of cool has spread south as people realise the living costs are far more manageable and the surroundings just as pleasing. The term ‘Hypezig’ has even been coined to describe the rise in recognition. However, this is by no means a ‘new’ destination. Leipzig has played an important part in Germany’s history from the Battle of Nations up to the country’s re-unification in 1989.

At its heart, though, it is a cultural centre spurred on by the compositions of famous sons Bach, Mendelssohn and Wagner – not to mention the men themselves. Its home to one of the most important opera houses in all of Germany, regularly holds orchestral performances and festivals, and even has a music trail that joins some of these must-see spots together. The culture doesn’t stop there either. Art is a big deal here too as showcased by a number of fascinating galleries.

Highlights • Museum of Fine Arts – This futuristic building boasts works by Dürer, Rembrandt and Rubens.

• St. Thomas Church – 800 years of history have seen such immortal figures as Martin Luther and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart step through the doors.

• Bach Museum – It would be wrong to visit a city with such great musical heritage without learning of one of the greats. Bach was Leipzig’s music director and here you can see sheet music, documents and even instruments that he once used.

• Opernhaus – Spend an evening at this revered opera house, a breathtaking venue with excellent acoustics.

• Mädler-Passage – This shopping arcade is more than just a place to grab gifts and souvenirs. It celebrates Leipzig as a centre of commerce and culture.

Did you know?

Leipzig’s role in achieving peace during the re-unification of Germany led to it being given the nickname City of Heroes (Stadt der Helden).

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Four nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast, return rail travel from Berlin Airport to Leipzig Central & return flights from the UK

From £499pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 17th June 2019.

64

Did you know?

Hanse Sail takes place every year on the second weekend in August. It is one of the largest maritime festivals in Europe and sees hundreds of traditional sailing ships arrive to join the celebrations.

Germany

Rostock & Warnemünde It’s easy to forget that Germany can offer seaside destinations and, whilst they may be situated on the sometimes brisk Baltic coast, they can still provide some fun in the sun during the warmer months. Rostock and its sandy neighbour of Warnemünde present the perfect chance to spend some time in the city before venturing further north to relax by the ocean.

Whilst heavy damage during WWII means that Rostock is not exactly a picture-postcard city to look at, its time as part of the Hanseatic League means that there are still plenty of historical sights to discover and charming districts to explore – not least the splendid city walls and commanding Tower of the Petrikirche.

When the sun shines, though, locals and tourists head for Warnemünde and one of the best beaches in the area. The bright colours of the enclosed seats known as Strandkorb contrast beautifully with the white sand and the peaceful Alter Strom provides the perfect introduction with a promenade of shops, restaurants and cafés.

Suggested holiday:

Highlights

Itinerary

• Saint Mary’s Church, Rostock – The only church to escape unscathed from the war, this Gothic structure is home to an intricate astronomical clock and an elaborate organ.

1.

2-5. Warnemünde

• Rostock Zoo – As well as the animals, the zoo also has a museum area with looks back at previous time periods on earth. The recently opened Polarium has given the polar bears and penguins a shiny new home.

What's Included

• Steintor – This elaborate former city gate features Rostock’s emblem and is built in Dutch Renaissance style.

• Return rail travel from Hamburg Airport to Warnemünde

• Warnemünde Lighthouse – Climb the spiral staircase inside this beautiful lighthouse for fantastic views over the port and out to sea.

• Alter Strom, Warnemünde – After relaxing on the beach, stroll along this picturesque canal for a casual bite to eat.

Daily departures available

6.

Depart UK - Hamburg - Warnemünde Warnemünde - Hamburg - Arrive UK

• Five nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast • Return flights from the UK

From £649pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 21st May 2019.

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Germany - The Ruhr Valley

Dortmund

This part of Germany was once alive with the sound of industry. Coal mines and steelworks across the region were the working hub of North Rhine-Westphalia until global trade routes opened up and caused a need to rethink. However, industrious as the people are here, the Ruhr Valley was able to re-invent itself as a destination for culture – so much so that, in 2010, the entire area was named a European Cultural Capital. This was done by giving places like Zollverein Coal Mining Complex a new lease of life and a more modern purpose – in this case, a museum and ice skating venue.

The biggest city in the Ruhr is one that wears its passion for football on its sleeve. Dortmund is not only home to one of the most successful German teams but also the German Football Museum. Elsewhere, it’s dominated by art venues, castles and churches that are interspersed with a surprising number of green spaces. Whilst modern businesses have now moved into town, the signs of an industrial past are still there for all to see.

Highlights • WestfalenStadion – If you love football, you’ll jump at the chance to tour a football ground known in the game as one of the most atmospheric.

• Botanischer Garten Rombergpark – The landscaping of this public park is purposefully designed to be romantic and offer spaces for tranquil reflection.

• Reinoldikirche – This beautiful Gothic church in the city centre features wooden statues of Charlemagne and Saint Reinold (to whom it is dedicated) at the entrance.

• Hohensyburg Castle – Now in ruin, the castle can be found on Syberg hill on the outskirts of Dortmund. It houses a memorial to Kaiser Wilhelm.

• Zollverein Coal Mining Complex, Essen – Travel to nearby Essen to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about the Ruhr Valley now and at its industrial peak.

Did you know?

The Ruhr Valley is home to a cycle path that stretches for nearly 150 miles alongside the River Ruhr.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £299pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 12th June 2019.

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Germany

Stuttgart Stuttgart is a city for the 21st century traveller – especially one who loves cars. As the home of Porsche and Mercedes, its residents have earnt a reputation for enjoying life in the fast lane, but the truth is that they are much more down to earth than that. In fact, you’re more likely to see life being lived at a slow pace here, as beer gardens beckon you to sit for a while and enjoy some typical Swabian cuisine and opportunities to hike through the surrounding vineyards exist in abundance.

Did you know?

Stuttgart is home to a pig museum housed in a former slaughterhouse. Inside, you’ll fine 40,000 swine-themed artefacts.

Back in the city, most of the main attractions can be found close to the Schlossplatz. This large square is surrounded by fantastic art galleries, museums and a world-class opera house, proving Stuttgart’s worth as a treasure trove of cultural highlights.

Highlights • Mercedes and Porsche Museums – Look back at classic models from these two automobile behemoths.

• Old Palace and New Castle – Located right next to each other, these two attractions give much insight into Stuttgart’s past and present.

The new palace is the seat of Baden-Württemberg’s government and the old castle is where many past royals are buried.

• Staatsgalerie – Possibly the best gallery in the city, the older part hosts Baroque and Renaissance works whilst the newer wing houses creations by 20th-century geniuses such as Picasso.

• Markthalle – Choose from various different stalls offering local cuisine under one roof.

• Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Garden – More than 1,000 species roar, squawk and growl their way around habitats built within a former royal palace.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £349pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 24th June 2019.

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Germany - Thuringa

Erfurt & Weimar Often referred to as Germany’s green heart, Thuringia is home to large areas of forest where slow travel was championed long before it become trendy in the 21st century. However, this nickname skims over the fact that such a small state is littered with cultural hotspots that have all seen influential figures drift through and leave their mark. It really is interesting to see so many art, literature and musical roots in such a relatively small region.

Whilst much of the state is worth your time if you have it to spare, the leading lights are Erfurt and Weimar. The former, the state capital, is a beautiful medieval town bearing the legacy of Martin Luther and the reformation, whilst the latter was once Goethe’s playground and a focal point for the German Enlightenment.

Highlights • Merchants' Bridge, Erfurt – The Krämerbrücke is the most photographed sight in Erfurt and for good reason. It features an uninterrupted row of half-timbered merchants’ houses.

Every January, Thuringia hosts the longest sled dog run in the Europe. ‘Trans Thuringia’ features mushers from all over the continent who compete on a course along the famous Rennsteig hiking route.

Suggested break: Erfurt Daily departures available

Four nights' 4* accommodation, return rail from Nuremberg Central to Erfurt Central & return flights from the UK

From £549pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 17th May 2019.

• Erfurt Cathedral – Standing tall on a hill above the city, this Gothic cathedral boasts the world’s largest free-swinging Medieval bell.

Suggested break: Weimar

• Rennsteig – Showcasing Thuringia’s relaxing green pastures, this hiking trail stretches for more than 100 miles through many of the state’s smaller towns.

Daily departures available

• Goethe House, Weimar – The great poet lived here for 50 years. His former home now holds a museum displaying sketches, set designs and books from his study.

• Bauhaus Museum, Weimar – The Bauhaus is a famous German art school that celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2019. Expect special exhibitions at this small museum.

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Did you know?

Four nights' 3* accommodation, return rail from Nuremberg Central to Weimar Central & return flights from the UK

From £529pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 26th April 2019.

Germany

Wiesbaden When you translate the name of the state capital of Hesse into English, it’s easy to see what you can expect from this lesser-known city. ‘Meadow baths’ is what Wiesbaden means, a moniker that points to the natural beauty found in this area and the fact that it’s one of Germany’s oldest spa towns. Crisp Riesling, a highlight of this wine-growing region, overflows from every glass here, mimicking the hot springs that have been gushing for hundreds of years.

A trip to Wiesbaden will allow you to see everyday life in all its effortless glory. Farmers markets provide delicious, local produce; imposing buildings remind everyone of past splendours; and the Kurpark invites people to relax for a while.

Highlights • Altstadtschiffchen – The name of Wiesbaden’s Old Town alludes to the fact that it is shaped like a ship. It’s thriving with great restaurants, shops and attractions.

• Henkell Champagne Production Facility – Proving that the region does sparkling wine as well as it does Riesling, you can see the production process and sample a glass or two at Henkell.

• Neroberg – A water-propulsion funicular will take you up to the top of this hill on the outskirts of town where classical monuments, sweeping vineyards and wonderful views await.

• Kaiser-Friedrich-Therme – Bathe in the age-old waters at this swimming complex built in the image of a Roman baths. As well as the pools, there is a sauna and steam room.

• Theatrium – Held in June, this is one of the oldest street festivals in Germany. It offers up food stalls, live music, local handicrafts, street entertainment and much more.

Did you know?

Fyodor Dostoevsky was inspired to write ‘The Gambler’ after racking up large debts at the Wiesbaden casino.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Four nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £469pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 3rd June 2019.

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British Overseas Territory

Gibraltar

Even if you have never been before, you will instantly feel at home when you set foot in Gibraltar. English signs will guide you to shops and restaurants where you will spend pounds sterling and have no problem relaying your choice of meal to the English-speaking staff.

This British overseas territory offers all the good things about Britain but with far less of those dreary rainy days. Positioned at the southern end of Spain, it benefits from much warmer temperatures than the UK and is therefore an ideal holiday destination if you enjoy travelling to familiar surroundings.

Gibraltar is improved even further by outside influences from its closest neighbours. The flavours of Spain and other Mediterranean countries have impacted on some of the food, meaning you are likely to see Calentita (baked pancake made with chickpea flour) served alongside good old fish and chips. In fact, this is actually Gibraltar’s national dish and there’s even a festival dedicated to it every year. The Calentita Food Festival will next take place on 22nd June 2019.

Gibraltar’s architecture also shows that, however much it might feel like it at times, this is not Britain. Everyday buildings resemble the flat blocks across the Spanish border, but there is an even bigger influence from across the eponymous strait. North African design is most evident when considering the Moorish castle overlooking the bay and the striking Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque down at Europa Point, from which you could be in Morocco in minutes.

Perhaps the most famous thing about Gibraltar, though, is its attractions. There’s no shortage of things to do whilst you’re here but, with some great beaches, there’s no need to do anything at all if you don’t want to. A gentle stroll around the new Ocean Village is a great way to break up the hours spent lounging in the sun.

Wherever you go, though, you’ll be in the shadow of the famous Rock of Gibraltar, where many of the highlights can be found. And whilst the cheeky Barbary macaques may get all the headlines, there’s a lot more to discover within this unique natural monument.

Highlights • Top of the Rock – The cable car will take you as high as you can go for spectacular views, especially from the brand new Skywalk.

• WWII Tunnels – Inside the rock, a labyrinth of secret tunnels were used for storage and to make the most of Gibraltar’s strategic importance.

• St. Michael’s Cave – Learn the difference between stalactites and stalagmites once and for all in this giant cave complex.

• Dolphin Watching – Various boat tours will take you out into the Bay of Gibraltar in search of playful dolphins.

• Moorish Castle – Half way up the Rock, the remains of a Moorish castle show battle scars of past sieges.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Did you know?

Although the official language is English, many of the locals speak Llanito. This dialect is made up of Andalusian and English words.

Five nights' 3* accommodation & return flights from the UK

From £469pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 13th May 2019.

Greece Greece is back. After economic instability and the impact of the European migrant crisis, tourism in Greece is now flourishing again and record numbers are thought to have visited Greek shores in the summer of 2018.

With so much to offer travellers, this country was always going to bounce back. Beautiful natural landscapes, flavourful cuisine and stunning beaches all come with a side order of historical highlights courtesy of one of the world’s greatest ever ancient civilisations. Major cities are littered with ruins that inspire modern culture and it’s intriguing to see how everyday life exists alongside wonders like the Acropolis and Knossos Palace.

The islands have their fair share of highlights too, though. Each patch of land in the Aegean and Ionian Seas has its own draws but, largely, tourists flock to these archipelagos for sun, sea and sand. Top of many lists, especially for people who enjoy holidaying in the lap of luxury, is beautiful Santorini. The iconic blue-domed buildings and glorious views attract swathes of honeymooners and romantic couples looking to take it easy.

Bulgaria

Regardless of whether you opt for the Cyclades, Sporades, Dodecanese or any of the other island chains, you’re in for a relaxing break. The beaches of Corfu, Crete, Naxos and Mykonos await your arrival.

Macedonia

Komotini

Edessa Thessaloniki

Gallipoli

Zagoria Meteora

Mt Olympus Aegean Sea

Corfu Agrinio

Kefallonia Zakynthos

Turkey Livadia

Athens

Patras

Olympia

Argos

Piraeus

Samos Mykonos

Santorini Mediterranean Sea

Sea of Crete

Rhodes

Crète Contact your travel agent, call 0800 988 3369 or email sales@fredholidays.co.uk

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Greece

Athens Recently named Europe’s best city break destination at the World Travel Awards, Athens has a great mix of things to see, do and experience. Trendy new neighbourhoods that play host to a bourgeoning contemporary arts scene create a unique juxtaposition with the ancient ruins that loom from their perch high above the city. There’s plenty of other historical influences too, as Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques also vie for your attention.

There’s a renewed energy on the streets of the capital as performers bring old stories to life in celebrated surroundings, pop-up restaurants appear in between the traditional tavernas and street art is daubed outside buildings displaying artefacts created centuries ago.

Highlights • Acropolis – The pick of Athens’s Ancient Greek remnants is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, because of its strategic position, was home to some of the most important buildings.

• Plaka – This is Athens’s oldest neighbourhood and the perfect place for a pleasant afternoon stroll or delicious evening meal.

• Benaki Museum of Greek Culture – This is the largest of the museums founded by Antonis Benakis and features artefacts from throughout history.

• Temple of Olympian Zeus – The largest temple found in Athens is dedicated to Zeus and is included in your entrance ticket for the Acropolis.

Did you know?

During the days of Ancient Greece, Athens held its own Panathenaic Games to rival the events happening in the city of Olympia.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Four nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £399pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 9th May 2019.

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Photo by Cristina Gottardi on Unsplash

• Athens Central Market – Arrive in the morning to experience the excitement and a cacophony of voices as vendors lay out their prices and locals attempt to haggle them down.

Hungary

Budapest The streets of Budapest provide a treasure trove of architectural wonders, from the bridges across the Danube that provide a link between Buda and Pest to grand monuments like the one found in Heroes Square.

Whilst Buda is more residential and pest aimed towards tourists, you will need to experience both to get a full flavour of Hungary’s capital. Spend your day exploring the sprawling castle district and taking in the views from the Fisherman’s bastion, before crossing the river for an evening amongst the famous ruin bars.

Did you know?

No building in Budapest is allowed to be taller than 96 metres.

This number is said to be taken from the fact that the Magyars settled in the area in the year 896. Two buildings are exactly 96 metres – the parliament and the Szent Istvan Basilica – highlighting the equal importance of religion and politics.

Getting around the city is made effortless by the quaint metro system which fuses modern stations and trains with classic yellow carriages that are infinitely more charming. Once you arrive at Vörösmarty tér, the main attractions are easily reached on foot – that’s unless your stomach allows you to be distracted by the street vendors selling delicious Lángos (fried discs of dough) and Kürtőskalács (chimney cake).

Highlights • Széchenyi Thermal Baths – A trip to the thermal baths is part of the daily ritual here in Budapest and this is the largest complex in the city.

• Matthias Church – Located behind the Fisherman’s Bastion, this unique church has a colourful roof and plenty of treasures inside.

• Buda Castle – The funicular opposite the Chain Bridge will take you up to the castle where you’ll find the Budapest History Museum and National Gallery.

• Great Market Hall – The ideal place to try some traditional goulash and a world of other local treats.

• Heroes Square – This is where you’ll see The Millennium Monument, featuring the chieftains of each of the seven Magyar tribes and a host of other important Hungarian figures. Come back at night to see it lit up beautifully.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £339pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 6th May 2019.

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Iceland Iceland is the kind of place that you quickly realised you will definitely return to. It’s hard to get enough of the endless natural landscapes and impossible to experience all of the highlights in one trip. Natural wonders like the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun are must-see spectacles but cannot be enjoyed at the same time, meaning travel in both the summer and winter seasons is needed before you can appreciate both sides of the coin.

The Northern Lights are most likely to make their show-stopping appearance in March/April and September/October, whereas the time for basking in never-ending sunlight is July. Nature’s performance doesn’t stop there, though. Glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, lakes and hot springs are all features of the landscape, showcasing the sheer power of a wild and remote island that has far more greenery that its name gives it credit for.

Many travellers head straight for Reykjavik and there’s no denying the capital is an ideal base for your explorations. However, there is so much to see elsewhere that perfectly demonstrates Iceland’s rugged beauty in all its glory. Isolated fishing villages and picturesque spots that lie off the beaten track are joined together by a ring road that acts as the setting for many a tourist’s road trip.

With so many varied natural habitats, it’s no surprise that the wildlife isn’t far behind. The surroundings seas are home to creatures like whales, narwhals and seals and boat trips leave from the harbour every day in search of them. Meanwhile, colourful puffins cling to the cliffs in the north of the island and reindeer graze on the grassy plains of the east. Iceland is also home to a unique breed of horse that has evolved to cope with the harsh climate here. A desire to keep them pure-bred and free of disease means that if they are ever taken abroad they are not allowed to return. This has made them very strong and ensuring over the years.

On any trip to Iceland, you cannot fail to notice the friendly nature of the locals. Warm and welcoming to tourists, they embrace other cultures and love sharing stories of their own. A big part of life is the love of myths and legends. Polls reveal many Icelanders believe in the existence of the Huldufólk (Hidden People) and some even draw doors on rocks for them to live in. Tales from folklore are also used to explain the contours of the landscape and the legendary sagas tell of trolls, elves and ‘Land Wights’.

No wonder Iceland was chosen as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Siglufjörður

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Region s d r o j tf

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The Great Geysir Gullfoss Falls

Reykjavik Blue Lagoon

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Vatnajökull National Park

s Regio n

Akureyri

Did you know?

The name Reykjavik translates as ‘Cove of Smokes’ – a nod to the numerous hot springs in the area.

Iceland

Reykjavik If you’re heading to Iceland, especially for the first time, the chances are that you’ll find yourself in Reykjavik. The capital provides the perfect introduction to this wild island, offering the comfort and familiarity of a modern city but with easy links to remote regions where adventure awaits. The city centre is small and easily navigable, consisting of one long shopping street where familiar names like Dunkin’ Doughnuts sit beside quirky, independent shops selling traditional Icelandic products.

Branch out from this area and you’ll discover a wealth of interesting architecture, including the beautiful Hallgrímskirkja and the shimmering Harpa concert hall. Views from the bay remind you that nature lingers beyond the horizon and the working harbour shows Reykjavik hasn’t lost its roots as a fishing town.

Highlights • Hallgrímskirkja – From the top, there are fantastic views across the bay and down onto the multi-coloured houses.

• Blue Lagoon – This famous natural spa makes use of Iceland’s geothermal waters. It’s easily reached from Reykjavik or the airport.

• Golden Circle Tour – The most popular tour by far. Visit Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir and the Thingvellir National Park all in one day.

• Harpa – Standing tall in the harbour area, this concert hall hosts ballet, theatre and music performances. It was designed to mimic the basalt landscape of Iceland.

• Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur – Hotdogs are a big deal in Reykjavik and these, as the name translates, are ‘the best hot dogs in town’.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Five nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £659pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 14th May 2019.

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Italy Is there a more all-encompassing destination in all of Europe? Ancient metropolises like Rome and Venice appeal to anyone looking for an interesting city break, the glamorous lakes await those who wish to relax and golden beaches are on-hand when you want to top up your tan.

History, food, romance, opportunities to try active pursuits – Italy really does have everything.

It's coastlines of a different kind that are the main draw on the islands, though. Sicily, Sardinia, Ischia and Capri are all perfect spots for positioning yourself in the sun and taking it easy. Ischia, found in the Bay of Naples, can also offer the curative waters of its spas to aid relaxation even further.

Everywhere you tread, you will be reminded of those who have walked here before you. Such is the influence the Romans have had throughout history, their legacy remains in the form of must-see ruins found betwixt modern buildings and priceless artefacts displayed in museum halls.

No matter where you choose to go, your travels are sure to be led by your stomach. Nationwide specialities like pizza and pasta are given their own little regional twist in every town and city, each dish becoming your new favourite the moment you try it. But don’t make the mistake of thinking these stereotypical favourites are the limit of the country’s cuisine. This is where the slow food movement started and treasured truffles, carefully aged cheese and beautifully baked bread all play their role. Throw in flavourful seafood and an overflowing glass of full-bodied wine and you have a recipe for success.

The destinations across this boot-shaped country range from bustling cities to traditional fishing towns where life triumphs at a slower pace.

The Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are two such regions, where tourists arrive in their numbers to see the pastel hues of the houses and hike along the clifftop trails.

Bern

Dijon

Lausanne

Lyon

Geneva

Saint-Etienne

Innsbruck

Lucerne

Milan

Turin

Wörthersee

Venice

Verona

Pisa Nice

Zagreb Plitvice Lakes

Bologna

Genoa

Marseille

Ljubliana

San Marino

Florence Rome

Zadar Split Adriatic Sea

Naples

Tyrrhenean Sea

Pompeii

Sardinia Mediterranean Sea Ionian Sea

Sicily 76 76

Italy

Italian Lakes One of the most popular regions in Italy is the lake district in the north.

There are five main lakes, ranging from popular Garda to lesser-known Iseo, but plenty more smaller reservoirs exist in the surrounding area. Their beautiful natural landscapes, peaceful waterside promenades and charming towns have attracted the rich and famous for many years – even the Romans built their holiday villas here.

Protection from the snow-covered Alps means the climate here is much cooler than other parts of Italy. This makes walking amongst the colourful flora, charming harbours and palatial buildings all the more pleasant. In fact, many people head to the lakes after a city break in Milan or Venice to relax with a fresh breeze in their hair before heading back to their daily routine.

One thing that will stay with you long after you’ve left is the views.

You may be admiring them from the terrace of a Michelin-starred restaurant or the tower of a historic church, but they are sure to last long in the memory.

Highlights • Bellagio, Lake Como – One of the most picturesque towns in the area, Bellagio was an exclusive resort for 16th-century aristocrats.

• Sirmione, Lake Garda – There is so much to see here including thermal baths and a magnificent medieval castle.

• Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore – This island in the middle of the lake features vibrant gardens and acts as a window back in time.

• Painted Walls of Pogno, Lake Orta – The small village of Pogno has been turned into an open-air art gallery by people painting their stories on the walls of historic buildings.

• Riserva Naturale Torbiere del Sebino, Lake Iseo – In an area of wetland close to the lake, a hiking trail will help you discover endangered flora and fauna.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Bergamo 2. Bergamo - Sirmione 3. Sirmione 4. Sirmione - Sarnico 5. Sarnico 6. Sarnico - Arrive UK

What's Included • Five nights' 4* accommodation • Economy-category rental car for the duration of your stay • Return flights from the UK

From £599pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 9th May 2019.

Did you know?

The winds that blow across Lake Como have their own names. Breva comes from the south and occurs in the afternoon and evening, whilst Tivano is a northerly wind that sweeps through the area at night and in the morning.

Italy

Amalfi Coast Chances are you’ll already be familiar with what the Amalfi Coast has to offer, even if you have never been here before. These colourful towns and villages that cling to cliff-tops close to the Bay of Naples appear in photos everywhere from travel programmes to social media. However, to see them without being filtered through a lens is to truly appreciate their beauty.

Usually reached via bus from Sorrento (which isn’t strictly part of the Amalfi Coast but still well worth a visit), these eye-catching destinations are home to sloped shopping passages, fine dining restaurants and beaches nestled perfectly within rocky coves. The popular ‘Path of the Gods’ hiking route takes you through a few of the most alluring towns, providing adventurers with breathtaking views of the coastline every step of the way.

Highlights • Positano – The jewel in the Amalfi Coast’s crown. Take in the views from the road level and then descend upon the golden sands.

• Grotta dello Smeraldo – Find this cave complex close to Amalfi. You’ll travel down in a lift and explore the grotto in a rowing boat.

• Amalfi Cathedral – Climb to the top of the grand staircase and enter through the bronze doors to catch a glimpse of the relics of St. Andrew.

• Atrani – For an insight into the Amalfi Coast without the crowds, head to this gem around the headland from Amalfi.

• Gardens of Ravello – Set back from the coast, Ravello is home to beautiful villas that boast vivid gardens open to the public.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Naples - Amalfi 2. Amalfi 3. Amalfi 4. Amalfi - Positano 5. Positano 6. Positano - Sorrento 7. Sorrento 8. Sorrento - Naples - Arrive UK

What's Included • Seven nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast • Private overseas transfers • Return flights from the UK

From £799pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 7th May 2019.

Did you know?

Lemons are a prevailing symbol of the Amalfi Coast. You’ll find them growing on trees, pictured on ceramics and flavouring your glass of limoncello.

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S

Experience the healing power of Ischia

0808 163 5880

www.fredholidays.co.uk/garden-villas-resort sales@fredholidays.co.uk for your peace of mind 09 44

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Seven nights' accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers, ferry crossing & return flights from the UK

From ÂŁ799pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 27th April 2019.

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Italy

Milan From fashion to architecture and fine dining to fine art, Milan oozes style. The streets feel more like catwalks here, as impeccably dressed Italians go about their lives amongst a mixture of historical and modern buildings. Da Vinci’s Last Supper may have cemented the city as a hotbed of Renaissance art but modern developments from the likes of Zaha Hadid and Daniel Libeskind show a desire to be at the forefront of 21st century design.

If you like your city breaks to involve some retail therapy, Milan is the perfect place to add a touch of glamour to your wardrobe. Whilst highend brands maybe the ones that jump out at first, there are plenty of shops to suit every budget.

As in much of Italy, the day revolves around food events – the most important of which is the casual aperitivo. As the Milanese begin to leave work, the pavement cafés come alive with the sound of them chatting over a glass of prosecco and bite size morsels.

Highlights • The Last Supper – Although damaged on various occasions through the years. One of the world’s most famous paintings is still a breathtaking spectacle.

• Milan Cathedral – The 600 years it took to build the Duomo were all worth it as it really is a Gothic masterpiece.

• Pinacoteca di Brera – One of the best places to discover Milan’s hordes of art, this gallery features pieces by Raphael and Titian.

• Chinatown – The delicious street food offerings in the small Chinatown show that Milan’s culinary delights are not just limited to Italian cuisine.

• The Golden Triangle – This is where three of the best shopping streets in the city meet. You’ll find luxury brands in abundance.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Did you know?

Milan has the highest number of Michelin stars in Italy.

Three nights' 3* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £359pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 13th June 2019.

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Did you know?

All of the money thrown into the Trevi Fountain is collected each night and donated to charities that support local families in need.

Italy

Rome Walking around the streets of Rome is like walking through the halls of a museum, each corner turned revealing yet more wonders that sit amongst modern restaurants and shops. The vast city is made up a various different neighbourhoods that each have their own character and must-see sights.

These are knitting together by the winding Tiber River, creating a romantic riverside walk for anyone who wants to explore on foot.

It’s not just Roman ruins that turn the Eternal City into a living stage, though. Architecture from the years since stands out just as much, creating a backdrop of beguiling churches, bewitching palaces and bedazzling fountains. And, if you start to wane from all the sightseeing, take a seat in a local trattoria for a quick slice of pizza or bowl of ‘cacio e pepe’ (Rome’s favourite pasta dish) and you’ll be ready to go again in no time.

Highlights • Vatican Museums – Don’t let the queues put you off from touring this sprawling museum complex, culminating in the beautiful Sistine Chapel.

• Colosseum – As you emerge from the gloom of the nearby subway station, you’ll be greeted by the most magnificent sight. Book an underground tour for a real insight into the events that took place here.

• Trastavere – This pretty neighbourhood has a riverside setting and charming streets through which to wonder. It’s the ideal spot for an alfresco lunch.

• Pantheon – The sun streaming through the window in the Pantheon’s domed roof casts a magical light on the sculptures and chapels inside.

• Castel Sant'Angelo – A great alternative to St. Peter’s Basilica if the queues seem too long. From the top, you can enjoy a unique panorama that includes St. Peter’s Square.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £379pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 18th June 2019.

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Italy

Tuscany If all of Italy is a kitchen then Tuscany is the dining table. Food takes centre stage here more than any other region in the country and every meal is accompanied by a generous glass of wine produced from the grapes grown in Tuscany’s sweeping vineyards. Whether that’s a meltin-the-mouth Steak Florentine or a hearty ribollita (rustic soup), your explorations will certainly be well-fuelled.

This beautiful region is characterised by rolling natural landscapes through which many walking trails lead and cultural cities where fascinating art and architecture can be found on every street corner.

Your time can be equally well spent between walking or cycling through Chianti and marvelling over iconic buildings in Pisa or Florence.

Highlights • Leaning Tower of Pisa – This iconic structure is part of a beautiful piazza that also features Pisa’s Duomo.

• San Gimignano – A medieval gem, the streets and walls of this town are fantastically preserved.

• Uffizi Gallery, Florence – One of the most famous art galleries in the world is home to Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and other well-known Renaissance pieces.

• Castello di Monsanto Winery – There are many great wineries in the region but this one south of Florence is one of the best.

• Walking in the Alpi Apuane – This area in northern Tuscany has some great hiking routes and is an ideal place for wildlife spotting.

Did you know?

Florence was the first city in Europe to add pavements to the streets.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Florence 2. Florence 3. Florence - San Gimignano - Siena - Chianti - Florence 4. Florence 5. Florence - Cinque Terre & Portovenere - Florence 6. Florence - Lucca - Pisa - Florence 7. Florence 8. Florence - Arrive UK

What's Included • Seven nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast • Guided tours and excursions • Transfers to the meeting point • Lunch and tasting of typical products during the tour of San Gimignano, Siena and Chianti • Entrance fees: the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery • Lunch during the tour of The Cinque Terre and Portovenere • Overseas private airport return transfers • Return flights from the UK

From £949pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 20th March 2019.

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Italy

Venice & Verona The epitome of a romantic city, Venice is one of the most iconic travel destinations in the world. Many places are likened to this canal-lined paradise, but few can truly compare. Even when you venture away from the epic Grand Canal, the architectural masterpieces keep on coming, as hidden churches and obscured palaces reveal themselves from a charming backstreet. In Venice, you’ll wake to the sound of gondoliers greeting the sunrise and go to sleep with the gentle hum of an elegant piazza still ringing in your head.

A few miles west, close to the shores of Lake Garda, another treasure is waiting to be discovered. The tales of Romeo and Juliet are alive on the streets of Verona but this alluring city has plenty more to offer. Pretty churches and bridges set the scene for a romantic break and, whilst your surroundings create a feast for the eyes, one for the stomach is being prepared in every restaurant and café. Throw in the impressive amphitheatre and some excellent art and there are more reasons to visit Verona than you can shake a spear at.

Highlights • Piazza San Marco, Venice – A focal point for Venice’s beauty, your eyes will be drawn in every direction by breathtaking buildings.

• Rialto Bridge, Venice – The main bridge over the Grand Canal is lined with little shops and is a popular photo spot.

• Burano and Murano, Venice – Escape the city centre and head to these smaller islands featuring multi-coloured houses and artisan crafts.

• Arena di Verona – This wonderfully preserved amphitheatre was built in the 1st century and still hosts opera performances today.

Did you know?

In Venice, a siren sounds to warn people of ‘Acqua Alta’.

This seasonal high water level causes some pavements and squares to flood occasionally.

Suggested break: Venice Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £379pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 11th June 2019.

Suggested break: Verona Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast, shared overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £379pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 3rd June 2019.

• Juliet’s House, Verona – Stand on the balcony from which Juliet declared her love for Romeo in the Shakespearian classic. A statue of her is said to bring good luck in love to anyone who touches it.

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Netherlands

Suggested holiday by rail: Daily departures available

During spring, rural parts of the Netherlands are transformed into colourful carpets as tulips of every colour emerge from their bulbs on the banks of every waterway. Contrasting with the greys and browns of the windmills surrounding them, the scene becomes the perfect snapshot of what many believe the country to be like. As well as bringing joy to cyclists, the flat landscapes provide fantastic views across the rural areas, combining with rivers and seas to create endless photo opportunities.

Itinerary 1. Depart UK - Amsterdam 2. Amsterdam 3. Amsterdam

However, there is more to this low-lying land than stereotypes – something that is clear to see whenever you set foot in historic harbour towns like Horn and Volendam. Here, the traditions of yesteryear are still alive today and beautiful wooden houses add a dash of colour to every street.

As in every Dutch town or city, cosy cafés (more like pubs than a place for tea and cake) offer the chance to catch up for a moment with good company and good food. Take time to appreciate your surroundings over a glass of Dutch gin or a pint of Heineken.

In the bigger destinations, museums and galleries show the creative side of the Netherlands and you wouldn’t expect anything less from a country that can list Van Gogh and Rembrandt as two of its most famous sons.

And, just like the romance of a canal-side walk, these artistic wonders are not just limited to Amsterdam; captivating sights can also be found across Den Haag, Rotterdam and Leiden.

4. Amsterdam - Antwerp 5. Antwerp 6. Antwerp - Brussels - Arrive UK

What's Included • Five nights' 4* accommodation • Rail travel from Amsterdam to Antwerp • Return rail travel from UK

From £599pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London St. Pancras on 18th March 2019.

Leeuwarden North Sea

Groningen

Emmen

Zwolle

Amsterdam The Hague

Gouda

Utrecht

Rotterdam

Efteling

Eindhoven Düsseldorf

Antwerp Ghent 84

Mönchengladbach Liège

Brussels

Cologne

Netherlands

Amsterdam Known for its love of a party, the fact that Amsterdam is just a short hop from the UK makes it perfect for a weekend city break. You won’t have to wait until the sun goes down for this European capital to come alive, though, as museums, parks, markets, vintage shops and romantic strolls offer plenty to do whilst the sun is shining.

Whilst Danish cities like Copenhagen offer the chance to experience ‘hygge’, the Dutch feeling of ‘gezellig’ provides the same atmosphere in Amsterdam.

Conveying a sense of cosiness in a social situation, gezellig could refer to an evening in a traditional bruin café or a meal for two in a canal-side setting.

When it comes to getting around the city, there are so many different options. If the thought of battling trams, cars and pedestrians whilst riding a bike is slightly daunting, take to the water for an open-topped boat tour of this cultural city.

Highlights • Rijksmuseum – Look back on 800 years of Dutch history thanks to art work from Dutch masters like Van Gogh, Vermeer and Rembrandt.

• Anne Frank House – Along with the rooms where Anne and her family lived in hiding for two years, there’s a poignant exhibition on the persecution of Jews during WWII. • Albert Cuyp Market – Thought to be the largest daily market in Europe, it’s a great place to sample local food on the go.

• Brouwerij 't IJ – You could try some locally brewed beer at the Heineken Experience, but why would you when there’s the chance to sample craft beer inside a windmill?

• Explore Jordaan – This charming neighbourhood is home to plenty of hidden gardens, interesting restaurants and antiques shops. You’ll also find Amsterdam’s ‘9 Streets’ shopping district.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation, & return rail travel from the UK

From £349

pp

Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London St. Pancras on 2nd April 2019.

Did you know?

The Bridge of 15 Bridges is a canal crossing from which 14 other arches can be seen in a number of different directions. You’ll find it where the Reguliersgracht meets Herengracht and it’s especially pretty at night.

Norway If all the countries in the world were hung up like paintings in a gallery, the chances are that your eyes would be immediately drawn to Norway.

The scenery is breathtaking in this part of the world and, thankfully, the summer months offer extended hours of sunlight in during which to soak it all in. The jaw-dropping fjords along the west coast may be the shop window display that entices travellers in, but thunderous waterfalls, giant ice fields and the quaint fishing villages that sit amongst them are just as worthy of your time.

But you don’t just come to Norway to admire everything from a distance.

Adventure activities involving wheels, paddles, skis, snowmobiles and toboggans all encourage you to get closer to the action and get your heart pumping. Don’t think you have to be an adrenaline junky to enjoy these pursuits, though, a moderate level of fitness and a push in the right direction is all you need to be at one with the wilds of Scandinavia.

However, not everything has to happen a gut-wrenching speed here.

Just as the Midnight Sun bathes the land in light over the summer, the autumn and spring equinoxes provide the perfect conditions for the magical Northern Lights – something that definitely will cause you to stand and stare. The best places to view them often allow you to see much of Norway’s wildlife along the way too. You could catch a glimpse of musk oxen or reindeer roaming free, glance towards the skies as migrating birds come into land or head further north in search of majestic polar bears.

Alta

Tromsø

With all the excitement surrounding the remote areas, you may think that you can afford to skip over the cities. But that would be a mistake. The beauty of destinations like Bergen and Ålesund mimics that found in rural parts, offering up an insight into Scandinavian design and the country’s maritime prowess.

Abisko

Jokkmokk Arjeplog

Luleå

F n ia

ds r jo

Umeå

Kristiansund

Äre

Östersund Sundsvall

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Storuman

Turku

No

Mora

Bergen

Oslo

Stockholm

Karlstad Gothenberg Jönkopiing 86

Tampere

Hudiksvall

Helsinki

Did you know?

Photo:VISITOSLO/Tord Baklund

Although Vikings are usually depicted wearing helmets, historians dispute that they ever did.

Very few helmets have ever been discovered.

Norway

Bergen, Oslo & Tromsø Oslo is quite compact for a capital city, making it easy to explore within a few days. You’ll soon realise that the streets are bourgeoning with creativity, especially in the form of modern architecture that keeps Oslo expanding at pace. A forward-thinking approach to urban planning and reducing carbon emissions is just one of the reasons why the city has been chosen as Europe’s Green Capital for 2019.

Bergen is a modern city that shows its links to the past through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf. Used to enable trade via the Hanseatic League in the past, it is now a modern harbour-side venue that’s home to fantastic restaurants and cosy cafés. With the fjords on one side and seven dramatic peaks on the other, Bergen is perfectly nestled amongst nature and the ideal place from which to explore it.

Tromsø, situated well inside the Arctic Circle, is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. It’s also the gateway to more adventures further north – not just for today’s tourists but for legendary explorers such as Roald Amundsen too. Plus, if the cold temperatures start to get to you, the notoriously lively nightlife will help to warm you up.

Suggested break: Bergen Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £449pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 8th May 2019.

Suggested break: Oslo Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £449pp

Highlights

Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 10th May 2019.

• Akershus Fortress, Oslo – The strategic position of this fortress helped it withstand many sieges. It was built in 1299 but modernised during the Renaissance period.

Suggested break: Tromsø

• Fram Museum, Oslo – Fram is a ship with legendary status thanks to its epic Arctic adventures. You can step aboard and see the original interior.

Four nights' 3* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

• Bryggen, Bergen – The Hanseatic wharf is a monument to Bergen’s importance for sea trade in the past. Nowadays, you’ll find the fish market and many great restaurants here.

• Fløibanen, Bergen – This funicular will take you up to the top of Mount Fløyen, where you can enjoy the views and a range of walking routes.

• The Arctic Cathedral, Tromsø – There’s a glistening mosaic outside the front of this cathedral. Its shape was designed to resemble an iceberg.

Daily departures available

From £559pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 4th June 2019.

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Poland Poland’s geographical position led to the creation of diverse architecture over the years (thanks to influence from many surrounding and conquering cultures), but it’s also the reason why so much of these beautiful buildings were damaged during WWII. What was able to be rebuilt now stands side by side with modern developments and moving memorials to those who sadly lost their lives during the conflict. Cities like Warsaw and Kraków now have thriving Jewish communities and new ways have been established for visitors to explore this rich cultural heritage.

Jūrmala

One thing that the Jewish community has influenced is the hearty cuisine that can be found in abundance across the country. Restaurant standard dishes started life in the kitchens of Polish mothers and grandmothers and have been elevated to solve the cravings of a nation. Good use is made of meat and winter vegetables to create food that may have had humble beginnings but is no less delicious because of it. A penchant for all things sweet also means that there are plenty of mouth-watering dessert options, so be sure to save room.

Riga

Liepāja Palanga

Little attention is paid to the natural beauty that lies beyond the medieval walls of Poland’s cities, but those that do discover it are glad they did. Regardless of whether you head north to the lakes or south to the verdant mountain passes, there are spectacular views waiting for you and plenty of ways to enjoy them.

Klaipėda

Baltic Sea

Poland

Kaliningrad Slupsk Gdańsk

Szczecin

Bialystok

Grodno

Bydgoszcz Poznań

Lublin

Katowice

Prague

Kraków Ostrava

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Warsaw tow

Lviv

Poland

Kraków & Warsaw In terms of architecture, Poland’s two biggest cities couldn’t be more different. Having suffered the brunt of damage during WWII, Warsaw has a modern feel to it – something highlighted by the skyscrapers seen in the newer parts of the city. And, without a central square, fresh neighbourhoods have been able to flourish whilst still making sure to conserve and share the stories of the past – tragic though they may be.

Further south, Kraków has a much bigger focus on historical architecture, whilst still managing to blend this with modern areas where today’s nightlife flourishes. The Medieval atmosphere is completed by stories of the city (and its dramatic castle) being built on top of a dragon’s den.

Another interesting juxtaposition of Kraków is the way a quiet backstreet can quickly lead to a lively town square, the kind which causes serious contemplation when it comes to deciding which restaurant to choose.

Highlights • Royal Route, Warsaw – Stroll through some of Warsaw’s most beautiful streets, admiring culturally important buildings.

• Banks of the Wisła – Each summer, the banks of the River Wisła come alive with the sound of free music and theatre events inside the new beach pavilion.

• Wawel Castle, Kraków – The 13th-century castle is now a museum hosting, among other things, Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Lady with an Ermine’.

• Rynek Glowny, Kraków – Kraków's sprawling main square is the largest in Europe. There’s so much to see here, including St. Mary’s Basilica and its wooden alter piece.

• Kazimierz – This historic Jewish neighbourhood is the perfect example of how communities like this are thriving in modern day Poland. There are plenty of cute cafés and artistic attractions to discover.

Did you know?

Communist style ‘milk bars’ are having a resurgence in Warsaw, creating an interesting window into a bygone era. They offer the chance to sample traditional Polish food at excellent prices.

Suggested break: Kraków Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £299pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 3rd July 2019.

Suggested break: Warsaw Daily departures available

Two nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £279pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 11th June 2019.

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Portugal Thanks to its history as a maritime superpower, Portugal can boast influences from all over the world. Add to this legacies left by civilisations such as the Moors and Romans and you have a melting pot of culture and history that can rival any other country.

Ferrol

Gijón

A Coruña

And yet, many people don’t visit Portugal for its historic cities but for its beautiful beaches. From the family-friendly options along the Algarve to the wild waves of the west coast that tend to attract surfers, there are plenty of spots to lie back and soak up the rays. And if you do choose the Algarve, be sure to pack your clubs. The golf courses in this region (there are options for beginners and pros) are spectacularly well designed to challenge and astound in equal measure.

Pontevedra

Portugal is just as good for romantic city breaks as it is for family fun, a point perfectly illustrated by both Lisbon and Porto. These popular destinations have fantastic historical neighbourhoods where delicious food is cooked with real passion, as well as hilllside settings that are home to standout attractions that cannot be missed.

Vigo

You don’t have to visit the big cities to enjoy a window into the past, though. Fortified walls and Moorish ruins can be seen as far south as Silves and as far north as Guimarães. Plus, thanks to megalithic monuments scattered around the country (particularly focused on the enchanting city of Evora), you can cast your mind even further back in time if you wish.

Braga

Don’t worry, we haven’t forgot about Portugal’s most famous tipple. There are many places to sample some of the free-flowing port wine – not least the picturesque banks of the Douro River.

Porto Viseu

Guarda

Salamanca

Coimbra Castelo Branco

Leiria Tomar

Atlantic Ocean

Lisbon Evora

Badajoz

Sines

Lagos

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Faro

Huelva

Did you know?

One nickname for people of Lisbon is Alfacinhas – which means ‘little lettuces’. This is thought to have originated from a time when residents had little to choose from in the way of food and would eat a lot of lettuce.

Portugal

Lisbon & Porto Many comparisons can be made between these two destinations but each is fantastic in its own right. They both have historic neighbourhoods (Lisbon’s Barrio Alto and Porto’s Ribeira), where pastel coloured homes sit between traditional restaurants, and both are located on the side of steep hills. Both also have a fantastic food scene where the flavours of full-bodied port wine and sweet pasteis de nata can dance on your tongue at a moment’s notice.

Their differences come in the contrasting waterside settings they offer.

Lisbon’s proximity to glorious beaches means visitors can enjoy a city and beach break in one trip, whilst Porto’s landscape is shaped by a river rather than the sea. The Douro splits the city in two, whilst its vine-clad valley awaits anyone who climbs aboard a river cruise ship or a traditional Rabelo boat and sails under the breathtaking Luís I Bridge.

Highlights • Belém Tower, Lisbon – Built to guard the harbour, this Gothic tower features some ornate stonework dating back to the 1500s.

• Jerónimos Monastery, Lisbon – Like the tower above, this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built to commemorate the return of Vasco de Gama on the spot where he and his men prayed the night before they left.

• Lisbon Oceanarium, Lisbon – Spend some time admiring creatures of the deep at this modern aquarium. It houses the largest indoor tank in Europe.

• Church of São Francisco, Porto – It may look kind of ordinary from the outside, but the interior of this church features intricate works and a beautiful rose window.

• Port Wine Cellars, Porto – Cross the river into Gaia and sample some of the world’s favourite fortified wine.

Suggested break: Lisbon Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £299pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 7th May 2019.

Suggested break: Porto Daily departures available

Three night' 4* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £329pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 19th June 2019.

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Le Harve

Rouen

Spain Brits may have developed a love for city breaks in recent years, but that doesn’t mean we have abandoned the beaches of our good friend Spain. Few places in Europe can boast the sheer volume of sun-drenched sands that can be found here and, whether you choose the Balearics or the Costa Brava, none of them are more than a couple of hours away by plane.

Rennes

Paris Orléans

Nantes

This is a country that wears its heart on its sleeve and it’s impossible not to get swept along with the fiesta. An immense passion exists for good food, good music and anything else that’s needed for a good time, meaning the locals are just as happy to see you as you are to explore Spain’s fascinating sights.

La Rochelle

And many of those sights lie waiting in the big cities, having been influenced by creative geniuses such as Picasso and Gaudi.

Barcelona gets many of the headlines, but history also stands on every corner in destinations such as Seville, Tarragona and Salamanca – the kind of history that highlights legacies left by ancient civilisations that made their presence known across the whole of Europe.

Art is everywhere too and it comes in many different forms. From the walls of Madrid’s Museo del Prado to the Michelin-starred plates of Girona and the quick feet of Seville’s Flamenco dancers, beauty is conveyed through everything the Spanish love.

Bergerac

Bordeaux

Bay of Biscay

Toulouse Lourdes

Bilbao

Pamplona

Barcelona Porto

Salamanca

Madrid Coimbra

Valencia

Lisbon

Balearic Sea Menorca Mallorca Ibiza

Benidorm

Lagos Faro

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Seville

Cartagena

Malaga Cadiz

Gibraltar

Mediterranean Sea

Spain

Barcelona An excellent city break location, a popular port for cruising, beaches within walking distance from the historical gems in the city centre – Barcelona appeals to nearly every kind of holidaymaker in one way or another.

An unfinished masterpiece stands proudly at its heart in the form of the spectacular Sagrada Família, a Gothic basilica which, like many other aspects of Barcelona, showcases the genius of Antoni Gaudí.

As you wander the streets in search of others, you’ll discover a host of neighbourhoods in which Catalan culture is proudly displayed.

When you reach Las Ramblas, one of the most famous pedestrian boulevards in the world, you’ll be met with dining options that range from Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy tapas bars.

Highlights • La Sagrada Família – Sadly, Gaudí only lived to see less than a quarter of his creation come to fruition. Inside, brightly coloured stained glass windows cast a beautiful light.

• Park Güell – The park started life as a residential area for the wealthy and now hosts some fascinating sculptures by Gaudí.

• Barceloneta Beach – When you’ve had enough of the sun’s rays, walk along Barceloneta’s promenade for some excellent seafood dishes.

• Picasso Museum – Don’t let the queues put you off from the chance to see some of Picasso’s early works.

• Montjuïc – Brave the slopes and escape the city centre and you’ll be rewarded with wonderful views and the chance to look around the botanical garden.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £399pp

Did you know?

Barcelona didn’t have any beaches until the 1992 Olympics.

The sand was imported to help renovate an area that was previously home to fishing harbours and wasteland.

Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 15th May 2019.

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Spain

Bilbao & Valencia As the largest city in this fiercely proud region, Bilbao provides the perfect chance to experience Basque culture – its history, its food and its people. Until the esteemed Guggenheim Museum was built, the city had a much more industrial look than it does now. However, over two decades of tourism brought about by this excellent attraction has enabled Bilbao to give itself an architectural facelift.

Now, the pointy edges and curved sides of modern buildings from the minds of Norman Foster, Philippe Starck and others have created a captivating cityscape that still leaves room for a few gems from the past.

Meanwhile, in touching distance of the Costa Blanca, Valencia beckons tourists with a blend of Renaissance, Gothic and art nouveau design. The home of paella has a maze of streets at its centre where lively markets, pretty churches and palatial art venues appear as if from out of nowhere.

One thing you cannot miss, though, is the strip of greenery that runs from the port area to the zoo in the north-west corner. This was created by rerouting the river and rejuvenating its banks with gardens that bloom with every colour imaginable.

Highlights • Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao – The entrance to this must-visit museum is guarded by a giant topiary dog. Inside, works from Warhol and Rothko hang on the walls.

• Mount Artxanda Funicular, Bilbao – Ride to the top of this mountain for some great views over Bilbao. The funicular that takes you up is over 100 years old.

• Pintxos, Bilbao – The Basque Country’s answer to tapas brings people from all walks of life together. The main difference with these bite-size morsels is that they’re usually served on cocktail sticks.

• Oceanogràfic, Valencia – This modern-looking aquarium is the largest in Europe and also has room for a dolphinarium and an aviary.

• Valencia Cathedral – Built on the site of both a former Roman temple and a mosque, the cathedral is said to house the original Holy Grail.

Did you know?

Valencia is famous for its oranges, but the one variety known as the Valencia Orange is actually a hybrid created and grown in Mexico.

Suggested break: Bilbao Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £359pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Stansted on 13th May 2019.

Suggested break: Valencia Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £299pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 7th May 2019.

94

Did you know?

Menorca has 121 miles of beaches along its coasts.

That’s more than Ibiza and Majorca have combined.

Spain

Ibiza, Majorca & Menorca If you’re looking to lay on the beach during the day and enjoy some fantastic nightlife in the evening, the Balearic Islands should be top of your list. Ibiza needs no introduction and has earned a strong reputation for the latter, but its white and golden sands should not be underestimated. Plus, in recent years, an increase in yoga and spa resorts has meant its popularity has grown as a destination for escaping day-today life. Or, at the very least, recovering from the night before.

Perhaps quieter Menorca is a better choice if you want to relax. Its peaceful Biosphere Reserve has walking paths that criss-cross through the various habitats, linking quaint villages and megaliths inland and hidden coves along the coastline. Meanwhile, Majorca (Mallorca) attempts to play devil’s advocate to create a balance between its two neighbours.

Party towns like Magaluf can rival those across the sea in Ibiza while a renewed focus has been placed on highlighting a culture of home-grown cuisine and wine produced from the vineyards at the centre of the island.

All three islands offer stunning vistas that feature attractive harbours, old towns with plenty of charm and untouched beaches where you feel like the only person to have discovered this beloved archipelago.

Highlights

Suggested break: Ibiza Daily departures available

Four nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £399pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Southend on 30th April 2019.

Suggested break: Majorca Daily departures available

Four nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £389pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 7th May 2019.

Suggested break: Menorca Daily departures available

• Cami de Cavalls, Menorca – This beautiful hiking path will take you around the island, revealing much of the wildlife that lives here and Menorca’s best ancient sights.

Four nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

• Ibiza Town – See the historical side of the island courtesy of its cathedral, renaissance fortifications and the old market.

From £419pp

• San Marca Caves, Ibiza – This cave complex was once used by smugglers to store their contraband. Today, you can descend via a staircase to admire the rock formations and eerie atmosphere.

Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 1st May 2019.

• Torre d’en Galmes, Menorca – This megalithic village is an example of the Talaiotic Culture that existed here during the Iron Age.

• Wooden Train To Sóller, Majorca – Starting in the capital, Palma, the vintage train takes you 17 miles to the town of Sóller. The route forges through tunnels made in the Tramuntana Mountains.

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Spain

Madrid Spain, on the whole, is home to some fantastic art galleries, but few cities can boast the treasures of Madrid. You could spend your entire city break ogling canvases adorned by the works of Picasso, Goya and Dalí, but that would mean you missed out on everything else the city can offer. For a feast of a different kind, open up your taste buds to Madrid’s gastronomic world – a place where delis, tapas bars, fine dining restaurants and quirky venues all vie for your stomach’s attention.

When night falls, though, the city kicks things into another gear.

Seemingly quiet barrios burst into life with the sound of music, dancing and locals having a great time. Back in the centre, a wave of modern cocktail bars and nightclubs are intent on giving you somewhere to stage your party until the sun comes up.

Highlights • Museo del Prado – Not just one of the best art galleries in the world, it’s also the first ever to be opened. Check the website for itineraries in relation to how much time you have to maximise your experience.

• Parque del Buen Retiro – Created by Philip II as a place for religious contemplation, the public park features many interesting monuments.

• El Rastro – Grab a bargain at this popular flee market which seems to attract the whole of Madrid every Sunday.

• Faro de Moncloa Observation Tower – Look down on the city and its surroundings from 360 feet in the air.

• Bernabéu Stadium – Take a tour around the home of Real Madrid, one of the richest and most successful football teams in the world.

Did you know?

Madrid’s Palacio Real is the largest royal palace in Europe and, despite being the official royal residence, it’s only ever used for state ceremonies.

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £299pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 10th June 2019.

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Did you know?

Every Easter, during the procession of Jesus El Rico, one prisoner in Malaga is granted release. This is a ritual that was first started by King Carlos III in the 18th century.

Spain

Malaga & Seville The passion and energy generated by Seville’s festival calendar and its love for Flamenco is what drives this city forward. However, you can’t move ahead without knowing where you’ve come from and so there are definitely plenty of nods to a past of resplendence. Moorish and Baroque buildings stand side by side, showcasing Seville’s status as both the headquarters of a powerful empire and a city reborn thanks to 16thcentury wealth.

Down on the Costa del Sol, Malaga offers relaxing Mediterranean vibes but with the cultural activities that can only be found in a big city.

Whilst you can choose to fill your time with lazy beach days, they can also be spent perusing Picassos or browsing boutiques. One of the most interesting areas to explore is the recently regenerated port, now boasting the eye-catching Pompidou Centre and a swathe of bars and restaurants serving freshly caught fish dishes.

Highlights • Real Alcázar, Seville – This stunning palace and its accompanying gardens offers a splendid mix of Islamic and Christian architecture.

• Seville Cathedral – The largest Gothic church in the world proudly displays an amazing altar piece depicting the life of Jesus Christ.

• Metropol Parasol, Seville – Installed in 2011, these giant mushrooms come together to form a high-level walkway over the Plaza de Encarnacion. There’s also an interesting Roman museum full of artefacts unearthed during construction.

• Picasso Museum, Malaga – What better place to admire some of Picasso’s later works than in the city where he was born?

• Alcazaba, Malaga – The ruined fortress at the foot of Gibralfaro Hill proves Malaga can rival Seville in terms of Moorish architecture.

Suggested break: Malaga Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £349pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 14th May 2019.

Suggested break: Seville Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £339pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 2nd June 2019.

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Sweden

Tromsø

Like its Scandinavian neighbour, Norway, Sweden is home to some breathtaking landscapes that beckon you to explore the country beyond the big cities. From the frozen north, where the Sami people still herd reindeer and live in traditional tents, to the picturesque shores of Lake Vanern, Sweden’s largest, you’ll need your comfy shoes if you’re to truly discover what the country can offer.

Abisko

You don’t have to walk, though. Activities such as cycling, skating, snowshoeing and sailing are all available and will help you navigate the various different environments. Many of these means of travel can be used to enjoy one of the most popular natural routes, the Göta Canal. Stretching nearly 120 miles across the south, this early 19th-century waterway reveals historical landmarks, beautiful landscapes and the chance to visit smaller towns of the beaten track. Rent your own boat for an unforgettable experience.

Jokkmokk

None of that means you should skip the cities though, especially the jewel in Scandinavia’s crown – Stockholm. The capital is brimming with style, showcasing the type of practical design that is synonymous with this part of the world.

Arjeplog

There’s plenty of history, too. Museums bring tales of the Vikings to life, whilst rune stones dating as far back as the Bronze Age, used as memorials to loved ones, dot the countryside to remind you of those who have walked the well-trodden paths throughout the years.

Luleå

Storuman

Östersund

Umeá

Äre

Trondheim

Sundsvall

Kristiansund Alesund

T

Hudiksvall Mora

Lillehammer

Bergen

Oslo

Turku

Stockholm

Karlstad

Norrköping Linköping

Stravanger

Gothenburg

Jönköping

Malmö 98

Sweden

Stockholm It’s easy to compare Stockholm to other Scandinavian capitals, there is an unmistakable cool vibe that emanates from them all, but a rather more surprising comparison is with the city of Milan. Just like in northern Italy, being stylish is a way of life here – you’re just more likely to see it expressed as a functional piece of furniture than a must-have outfit. Plus, whilst the Milanese enjoy an afternoon aperitivo, the Swedes settle down for coffee and a catch up, in the form of ‘fika’.

This forward-thinking city with a focus on sustainability also has windows to the past, the biggest of which is found at its core – Gamla Stan. The Old Town delights with palaces, cathedrals and forts that are all knitted together by a series of bridges and excellent public transport. And, the waterways all around grant easy access to the further reaches of Stockholm where interesting museums, galleries and nature spots await.

Highlights • Royal Palace – The splendid palace is worth looking around but don’t miss the 40-minute changing of the guard ceremony that takes place every day in the summer.

• Skansen – The oldest outdoor museum in the world invites you to step back in time to learn about Sweden’s roots.

• Hornstull Marknad Food Trucks – Stockholm is a culinary capital and the best place to try some of the trendier morsels in town is at this waterfront filled with food trucks.

• Djurgården – A trip to this garden island will take you away from the busy city centre and into a world of peaceful nature. It’s also where you’ll find the Vasa and ABBA museums.

• Fotografiska Museet – The collection of photographs on display here will leave you in awe, as will the cake in the attached cafe.

Tampere

Helsinki

Suggested break: Daily departures available

Four nights' 3* accommodation including breakfast, private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £499pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Heathrow on 16th May 2019.

Did you know?

The Nobel Prizes for physics, chemistry, medicine and literature are awarded in Stockholm every year after Alfred Nobel requested it in his will.

Switzerland The main reason people go to Switzerland is to see the jaw-dropping scenery for themselves, and the good news is that it is everywhere.

Whether you’re hiking along mountain passes, through deep valleys, around the shores of a beautiful lake or through a lush vineyard – you definitely don’t want to leave your camera at home. And the landscape can be enjoyed year-round too, thanks to excellent ski resorts and picturesque cycling trails for the warmer months.

Frankfurt

Bamberg Würzburg

When you’re done admiring the otherworldly sights of the Bernese Oberland or Lake Lucerne, having put your eyes back in their sockets, there’s plenty of history and culture to be found in Switzerland’s cities.

Medieval architecture and world class museums offer something to do when you’re not carrying out your search for the best chocolate shop (its important research, after all), whilst you never know when you’ll encounter a festival dedicated to one aspect of Alpine life.

Nuremberg

Hiedelburg Rothenburg ob der Tauber

These two aspects of a Swiss holiday are not separated from one another, though. Nature is intrinsically linked to the towns and cities nestled amongst it – something you’ll definitely agree with once you find yourself cherishing views of snow-capped peaks over a delicious fondue.

And with great transport links all over the country, you can seamlessly move between the two to craft your own unique itinerary.

Stuttgart

All in all, Switzerland is a centre of peace (from the serenity of a remote log cabin to the fascinating insight offered by Geneva’s International Red Cross Museum) and science (from the corridors of the ground-breaking CERN facility to the ridiculously steep Gelmer Funicular).

Augsburg

Freiburg Montbéliard Besançon

Titisee-Neustadt

Basel

Füssen

Zürich

Bregenz

Bern Fribourg

Lucerne

Thun

Lausanne Locarno

Geneva Chamonix

St Moritz

Zermatt Matterhorn

Milan Turin 100

Switzerland

Swiss Travel Pass If you’re heading to Switzerland then the perfect travel partner, besides your camera, has to be the Swiss Travel Pass. This is something we can add to your booking and it will instantly open up a new dimension to your holiday. With the pass in your pocket, you’ll be able to make use of the excellent transport links throughout the country, hopping on and off buses, trains and even boats without having to pay anything extra.

It doesn’t end there, though. You can use the public transport network in 90 different urban areas to reach 500 different museums where you’ll receive free admission. Plus, you can upgrade to premium panoramic trains for free, so you don’t have to miss any of the passing scenery when you’re travelling from one destination to another.

The Swiss Travel Pass is available for either three, four, eight or 15 days consecutively or non-consecutively within a one-month period if you include the ‘flex’ version. There are discounted options available for adults under the age of 26 and all passes can be printed at home for your convenience.

Highlights • Glacier Express, Free – Travel on this breathtaking rail route, from Zermatt to St. Moritz, for free. The eight-hour trip takes you over the Oberalp Pass and offers wonderful views of the Matterhorn.

• Cableway from Weggis to Rigi Kaltbad, Free – The cable car is found close to the shores of Lake Lucerne. At the top, you can visit the soothing mineral baths and spa.

• Lake Geneva Boat Trip, Free – Take to the waters of Lake Geneva and enjoy a gentle trip on one of the famous steam boats. This is a great way to reach the smaller towns on the lake’s shore.

• Castles of Bellinzona, Free – Visit three different castles in the town of Bellinzona. Set in the Alpine foothills, they have been collectively named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Maison Cailler, Free – It’s hard to choose from the 500 different museums to which the pass grants you free access, but one that focuses on chocolate gets our vote.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1.

Depart UK - Zurich

2-7. Zurich - During your seven night centre based holiday, you can explore Switzerland with the use of your Swiss Travel Pass.

8.

Zurich - Arrive UK

What's Included • Seven nights' 3* accommodation • Eight-day Swiss Travel Pass • Return flights from UK

From £1,099pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 3rd June 2019.

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Switzerland

Basel & Bern Basel’s location on Switzerland’s northern border means that it is heavily influenced by both of its European neighbours. The distinct münster and town hall would not look out of place in a typical German city and the suburbs give off vibes of rural France. All this creates a cultural cross over that comes alive in the bars and cafés along the banks of the Rhine, all of which are perfect places to spend a relaxing summer’s day. Basel has some great wet weather attractions too, including a high number of museums and galleries.

The phrase ‘Switzerland has watches, Bern has time’ goes a long way to describing the laid-back ambience of the Swiss capital. The UNESCO-listed Old Town has many historical features and is a place for sightseeing, shopping and catching up over a coffee all at once. The city’s relationship with the emblematic bear has led to these animals being kept in an enclosure on the banks of the River Aare since 2009.

Highlights • Rathaus (Town Hall), Basel – The external façade is adorned with beautiful frescoes, but the inner courtyard is arguably the highlight.

• Tinguely Fountain, Basel – Jean Tinguely is known for his kinetic art and this fountain is the perfect example of his work.

• Basler Münster, Basel – Having been constructed over five centuries, the red sandstone münster displays Romanesque and Gothic features.

• Zytglogge, Bern – As well as putting on a mechanical show every hour, culminating in the famous three crows of the cockerel, this clock inspired Einstein to create his theory of relativity.

• Kunstmuseum, Bern – This is the oldest art museum in Switzerland and houses works by famous European greats such as Paul Klee and Pablo Picasso.

Did you know?

For all intents and purposes, Bern is considered the capital of Switzerland. However, the country has no official capital and Bern is actually known as a Federal City due to it being the seat of the government.

Suggested break: Basel Daily departures available

Three nights' 3* accommodation, Basel Card (free travel on public transport) private overseas transfers & return flights from the UK

From £389pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 1st May 2019.

Suggested break: Bern Daily departures available

Three nights' 4* accommodation, return rail travel from Zurich Airport to Bern, Bern Ticket (free travel on public transport) & return flights from the UK

From £559pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 7th May 2019.

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Switzerland

Zurich

Known as a financial and business hub, Zurich is out to prove that it can offer much more than bureaucracy. A recent injection of 21stcentury zest is epitomised by the trendy Züri-West district, where former industrial buildings have now become modern venues for nightclubs, bars and restaurants.

There is still a need to preserve the wanders of the past, though, and the narrow, cobbled streets of Zurich have seen plenty of highlights. This is where the Dadaist movement started more than one hundred years ago, watched over by historic towers, former guild houses and medieval homes that were built long before that.

In the summer, Zurich’s geographical location adds another dimension to life in Europe’s wealthiest city. The shores of the lake are filled with people ready to enjoy a range of festivals and the banks of the River Limmat are lined with seating spilling out of pavement cafés.

Highlights • Grossmünster – This Romanesque church and its two towers have become a symbol of Zurich. This is also were the Reformation started in Switzerland.

• Haus zum Rech – Dating back 800 years, this beautiful town house features intricately painted walls. There’s also a model of what Zurich looked like in 1800.

• MUDA – The Museum of Digital Art is Europe’s first art institute to combine physical and virtual aspects.

• Felsenegg Lookout – Escape the city for some spectacular views over the surrounding area. To reach the lookout, take the S4 train to Adliswil and then follow the signs to the cable car.

• Chagall Windows – Five glorious stained glass windows can be found inside the Fraumünster. The light shining through bathes the church interior in a rainbow of colour.

Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1.

Depart UK - Zurich

2-3. Zurich - Explore Switzerland with a Swiss Travel Pass included in your fare. Journey by train and boat, and explore museums all for free, plus enjoy up to 50% discount on many other mountain excursions^.

4. Zurich - Arrive UK

What's Included • Three nights' 3* accommodation • Four-Day Swiss Travel Pass • Return flights from UK

From £659pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Luton on 2nd July 2019. ^Terms and conditions apply.

Did you know?

The tower of St. Peter’s church in Zurich has the largest clock face in Europe.

Switzerland

Jungfrau Region The Jungfrau region is one of the most popular destinations within Switzerland, especially if you’re looking to see some of the best natural scenery that the country can offer. A stay in one of the luxurious hotels in charming towns such as Wengen, Interlaken and Grindelwald will mean you’ll wake up, throw open the curtains and immediately feel as though you have been transported to another world.

The most iconic attraction here is the Jungfraujoch – Europe’s highest train station. Climb aboard the Jungfraubahn and climb to a height of 3,454 metres, travelling through a tunnel in the Eiger Mountain and past breathtaking landscapes. When you reach the end of the line, you’ll be just below the summit of the Jungfrau Mountain, for which this region is named, and will be able to explore a range of different attractions. The Sphinx viewing building offers yet more fantastic vistas, whilst you can also trek across the glacier, frolic in year-round snow and step into the Ice Palace.

Whilst the Jungfrau grabs all the headlines, there is so much more that you’ll never run out of things to see and do. A range of activities that includes hiking trails, paragliding, waterfall walks, canyoning, cable cars, funiculars, toboggans, zip-lines and trottibikes will ensure you’re kept busy in all seasons – each one taking place in front of a stunning backdrop of impressive peaks and lush valleys.

Any James Bond fans should also make the journey up to top of the Schilthorn. The mountain was the setting for a ski chase involving Bond and Blofeld in the film ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ and now hosts a Bond-inspired walk of fame and an interactive museum called Bond World 007. Even if you’re not an admirer of the British spy, you won’t want to miss the chance to dine in the Piz Gloria rotating restaurant.

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Suggested holiday: Daily departures available

Itinerary 1.

Depart UK - Basel - Interlaken

2.

Interlaken

3.

Interlaken - Grindelwald

4-6. Grindelwald 7.

Grindelwald - Basel

8.

Basel - Arrive UK

What's Included • Seven nights' 4* accommodation including breakfast • Eight-Day Swiss Travel Pass • Return flights from UK

From £1,279pp Price is based on two adults sharing a room departing London Gatwick on 9th May 2019.

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Terms & Conditions All prices featured within this brochure are guide prices only and are based on low season departure dates at selected 2* to 5* hotels. Prices include flights and/or rail unless otherwise indicated, are per person based on two people sharing a room unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to availability and change.

These Booking Conditions, together with any other written information we bring to your attention before confirming your booking, form the basis of your contract with Fred.\ Holidays a trading name of Fred. Olsen Travel Ltd whose address is Olympus House, 2 Olympus Close, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 5LN. In these Booking Conditions, references to “we” and “us” mean Fred.\Holidays, and “you” and “your” include the lead-named person on the confirmation invoice and all persons on whose behalf a booking is made. Please read them carefully as they set out our respective rights and obligations.

These Booking Conditions apply generally whether you have booked one of our Packages (Inclusive Price Combinations) or our single component items, e.g. accommodation or transport only. Please note however that where you have purchased a single component, there is a different condition as to liability.

Please see ‘Our Responsibilities’ clause below.

By making a booking, the lead named person on the booking agrees on behalf of all persons detailed on the booking that: a) He/she has read these terms and conditions and has the authority to and agrees to be bound by them; b) He/she consents to our use of information in accordance with our Privacy Policy; c) He/she is over 18 years of age and resident in the United Kingdom Booking and Paying For Your Arrangements A booking is made with Fred.\ Holidays when a) you tell us that you would like to accept our written or verbal quotation and b) you pay us a deposit of £150 per person unless advised differently at the time of booking. For cruise holidays including expeditions and airline bookings you will be advised of the deposit amount at the time of booking. When we issue you with a confirmation invoice, a binding contract will come into existence. Upon receipt, if you believe that any details on the confirmation or any other documents are wrong you must advise us immediately as changes may not be possible later. The balance of the cost of your arrangements (including any applicable surcharge) is due 10 weeks prior to scheduled departure but on some products we require payment 90 days prior. If we do not receive this balance in full and on time, we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled by you in which case the cancellation charges set out below will become payable.

Your Financial Protection We provide full financial protection for our package holidays. If you buy a single travel service then this might not apply. For flight-based holidays this is through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number (0944), issued by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa.co.uk. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where we aren’t able to do so for the unlikely reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances, the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder.

However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable).

If we are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for the unlikely reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme.

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You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. When you buy a package holiday that does not include a flight, protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA - The Travel Association 30 Park Street London SE1 9EQ www.abta.co.uk.

cancel your confirmed booking, you must notify us in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only take effect when we receive it in writing at our offices at Fred.\ Holidays. Please note proof of postage (whether Royal Mail or e-mail) is not proof of receipt. You will be responsible for applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below, unless otherwise advised.

The cancellation charge detailed is calculated as all non-refundable items plus a percentage of the remaining total cost payable by the person(s) cancelling:

Pricing

89 - 57 days

60%

We reserve the right to amend the price of unsold holidays at any time and correct errors in the prices of confirmed holidays within 7 days of the booking.

56 - 43 days

75%

42 - 15 days

85%

14 - 00 days

100%

The price of your holiday is subject to change after you have booked only in certain circumstances.

These include changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates, any or all of which may mean a variation in the price of your holiday after you have booked. However, there will be no change within 20 days of your departure.

We will absorb, and you will not be charged for, any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes insurance premiums and any amendment charges and/or additional services or travel arrangements. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 8% of the price of your travel arrangements (excluding any amendment charges and/ or additional services or travel arrangements), you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid to us, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your final invoice, and we will provide a refund of any insurance premiums paid to us if you can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy. Should the price of your holiday go down due to the cost changes mentioned above, then any refund due will be paid to you. We will deduct from this refund our administrative expenses incurred. Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.

When you buy a flight-based holiday, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on behalf and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust at all times.

This is subject to the agent’s obligation to pay it to us for so long as we do not fail. If we fail, any money held at that time by the agent, or subsequently accepted from you by him, is and continues to be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation to pay that money to us. When you buy a holiday not including a flight, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times.

Travel Insurance We reserve the right to refuse or cancel a booking if you do not have personal travel insurance. We will treat any cancellation for this reason as a cancellation by you and the cancellation charges will be payable as set out below. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday.

It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance you purchase is adequate and appropriate for your particular needs, and covers all travel, cancellation, medical and repatriation liabilities for the holiday. We reserve the right to request full details of your insurance policy however please note that we do not check insurance policies for suitability. You are responsible for indemnifying us in full in the event that we incur any losses or expenses arising out of your failure to take out adequate insurance cover.

Cancellation by You If you or any other member of your party decides to

90 days or more loss of deposit and non refundable items

We strongly recommend you take out suitable insurance to cover you for possible eventualities that would require you to cancel your holiday. Holiday insurance premiums not paid to us are not refundable in the event of cancellation.

You can cancel your booking without paying cancellation charges if the performance of your package, or the carriage of passengers to your destination, is significantly affected by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. In such circumstances, we will arrange for your booking to be terminated and for you to receive a full refund. We will observe advice provided by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office.

Changes by You If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change any part of your booking you must inform us in writing. Whilst we will do our utmost to assist, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to meet your requested change. All changes will be subject to any applicable rate changes or extra costs incurred, as well as any costs we incur in making this alteration and any costs or charges incurred or imposed by any of our suppliers. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Please note that certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements. Where we are unable to assist you and you do not wish to proceed with the original booking we will treat this as a cancellation by you and a cancellation fee may be payable. Please note also that it is important at the time of booking to advise the names of travellers that match the name given on their passport. Failure to do so will usually result in a name change charge by the airline.

Changes or cancellation by us As we plan your holiday arrangements many months in advance, we may occasionally have to make changes to or cancel your booking and we reserve the right to do so at any time. If we make a significant change to your holiday, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling your holiday and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. Except where the significant change is due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances (where unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken), if you choose to cancel we will also pay compensation. These options do not apply for insignificant changes. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your outward/ return travel by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same or higher standard, and changes of carriers. Please note that carriers such as airlines used in the brochure may be subject to change. Alteration of the holiday may be made of necessity or because it appears to us or any other party acting as operator responsible for the holiday or part of the holiday desirable for the safety, comfort or enjoyment of passengers or the

operational efficiency of the holiday. Where possible and appropriate, we will make reasonable efforts to ensure that any changes are as limited as practical. Such alteration will not amount to significant alteration of the holiday contract.

We will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks before your departure date (90 days for a cruise holiday), except for reasons of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances or failure by you to pay the final balance. We may cancel your holiday before this date if, for example, the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached. If your holiday is cancelled, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). In some cases, except where the cancellation is due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, we will pay compensation as detailed below but this does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.

Period before departure in which we notify you Amount you will receive from us 43 – 90 days

£ 20 per person

27 – 42 days

£ 30 per person

15 – 26 days

£ 40 per person

00 – 14 days

£ 50 per person

We reserve the right in our absolute discretion to terminate without notice the holiday arrangements of any customer whose behaviour is such that it is in our opinion likely to cause distress, damage, danger, or annoyance to our customers, our/supplier employees, or to any third party, or to property. If you are prevented from travelling because, in our or our suppliers’ opinion, you appear to be unfit to travel or likely to cause discomfort or disturbance to others, our responsibility for your holiday ceases and we shall be under no obligation to pay any refund, compensation or costs to you. Please note that we have no control over the behaviour of other persons staying at or visiting your holiday accommodation and we are not responsible for any withdrawal or impairment of facilities or other loss or damage caused by them. Under no circumstances are you entitled to share or sub-let your accommodation with anyone other than those individuals shown on your booking.

Our Responsibilities We are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y0128.

We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of this contract, which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we cannot resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com. You can also access the European Commission Online Dispute (ODR) Resolution platform at http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr/. This ODR platform is a means of notifying us of your complaint; it will not determine how your complaint should be resolved.

1) Single Components If you have purchased a ‘single component’ i.e. accommodation or transportation only, then your booking is not a package as defined by the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations, but we have a duty to select the accommodation/ transport providers with reasonable skill and care. We have no liability to you for the actual provision of the accommodation/transport, except in cases where it is proved that we have breached that duty and damage to you has been caused. Therefore, providing we have selected the provider with reasonable care and skill, we will have no liability to you for anything that happens at the accommodation or during the transportation or any acts or omissions of the provider or others.

2) Package Holidays Subject to these booking conditions, your holiday arrangements will be made or performed using reasonable skill and care. We will be responsible if our employees, servants or agents fail to make or perform your holiday arrangements using reasonable skill and care as long as they were acting within the course of their employment or carrying out work that we had asked them to do.

We will not be responsible or pay compensation for any injury, illness, death, loss, damage, expense, cost or other claim of any description, which results

from: the act(s) and/or omission(s) of you or another member of your party; the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of the services contracted for and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, which means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. The services and facilities included in your holiday will be deemed to be provided with reasonable skill and care if they comply with any local regulations that apply, or, if there are no applicable local regulations, if they are reasonable when compared to the local standards in practice.

Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of three times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accordance with and/or in an identical manner to: (a) the contractual terms of the companies that provide the travel services that make up your package. These terms are incorporated into this booking; and (b) any relevant international convention, for example the Warsaw/Montreal Convention in respect of travel by air, the Athens Convention in respect of travel by sea, the Berne/Cotif Convention in respect of travel by rail, the Paris Convention in respect of the provision of accommodation, and the Strasbourg Convention (CNLI) in respect of travel on inland waterways, which limit the amount of and conditions under which compensation can be claimed for death, injury, delay to passengers and loss, damage and delay to luggage. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of any limitation of the extent of or the conditions under which compensation is to be paid under these or any conventions. We limit the amount of compensation we may have to pay you if we are found liable under this clause for loss of and/ or damage to any luggage or personal possessions and money to a maximum amount of £25 per person in total because you are assumed to have adequate insurance in place to cover any losses of this kind.

You can ask for copies of the travel service contractual terms, or the international conventions from our offices. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/ or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details will be publicised at EU airports and available from airlines. However, reimbursement in such cases will not automatically entitle you to a refund of your holiday cost from us. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in these booking conditions. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline or any other service provider will be deducted.

If it is impossible to ensure your return as scheduled due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, we will bear the cost of necessary accommodation, if possible of equivalent category, for a maximum of three nights. The limit does not apply to persons with reduced mobility and any person accompanying them, pregnant women and unaccompanied minors, or persons in need of specific medical assistance, provided that you notified us of these needs at least 48 hours before the start of your holiday.

Complaints If a problem occurs whilst you are on holiday, you must inform the relevant supplier immediately so that the matter can be put right. If the supplier cannot resolve the problem to your satisfaction at the time, you must also contact us immediately by telephoning our offices on 00 44 808 231 3744 so that we are given the opportunity to help. In the event that a complaint cannot be resolved at the time, you must write to us within 28 days of return to the UK quoting the original booking reference and giving all relevant information. PLEASE NOTE: If you fail to follow the requirement to report your complaint whilst on holiday, we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify it and this may affect your rights under this booking.

Special Requests

but we will do our utmost to cater for any special requirements you may have. If you or any member of your party has any medical problem or disability which may affect your stay, please provide us with full details by writing or emailing us, before we confirm your booking so that we can advise as to the suitability of your chosen arrangements if possible.

Excursions Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision by the operator.

Passport, Visa and Immigration Requirements and Health Formalities It is your responsibility to check and fulfil the passport, visa, health and immigration requirements applicable to your itinerary. You must check requirements for your own specific circumstances with the relevant Embassies and/ or Consulates and your own doctor as applicable.

Most countries now require passports to be valid for at least 6 months after your return date. If your passport is in its final year, you should check with the Embassy of the country you are visiting. For further information please contact the Passport Office on 0870 5210410 or visit www. passport.gov.uk. Special conditions apply for travel to the USA and all passengers must have individual machine readable passports. Please check www.usembassy.org. uk. For European holidays you should obtain a completed and issued form EHIC prior to departure. Up to date travel advice can be obtained from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, visit www.fco. gov.uk. We do not accept any responsibility if you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport, visa or immigration requirements.

Delays and other Travel Information In some destinations, a compulsory city tax may be applicable and will be charged to you locally.

We regret we are unable to offer you any assistance should a delay disrupt your itinerary. Any airline or other transport provider concerned may however provide refreshments and/or appropriate accommodation. We cannot accept liability for any delay that is due to rescheduling times by the airline or airline authorities or caused by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances.

The latest flight timings will be shown on your tickets, which will be dispatched to you approximately two weeks before departure. You should check your tickets very carefully immediately upon receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. If flight times change after tickets have been dispatched, we will contact you as soon as we can to let you know. Your rights under EU law are included under “Our Responsibilities”.

Jurisdiction When you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice.

This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish to do so.

Data Protection Personal details will be held and processed by us to enable fulfilment of the holiday contract. You hereby agree to this information being passed to any third parties in order for the supply of the holiday. Personal details supplied to us may also be used for marketing purposes but only with your clear, active consent. We will not disclose personal details to third parties for marketing purposes without express permission. Our Privacy Notice can be viewed at www.fredholidays. co.uk/privacy. (updated November 2018) www.fredholidays.co.uk/terms

Any special requests must be advised to us at the time of booking. You should then confirm your requests in writing. Whilst every effort will be made by us to try and arrange your reasonable special requests, we cannot guarantee that they will be fulfilled. Failure to meet any special request will not be a breach of contract on our part unless the request has been specifically confirmed.

Disabilities and Medical Problems We are not a specialist disabled holiday company,

Contact your travel agent, call 0800 988 3369 or email sales@fredholidays.co.uk

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A to Z of our most popular destinations Destination

Page

Destination

Page

Altötting

43

Florence

82

Amalfi

78

Frankfurt

52, 55, 61

Amsterdam Antwerp

84, 85 21, 22, 84

Freiburg Füssen

Athens

72

Ghent

Augsburg

45

Gibraltar

Baden-Baden

14, 41, 52

Grindelwald

82

Porto

91

52

Portovenere

82

45

Positano

21, 22 70 105

44

Hainburg

19

Barcelona

93

Hamburg

51, 56, 62

102, 105

Hanover

55

29

Regensburg

48

Reykjavik

75

Rohrau

19

Romanshorn

53

Rome

81 65

Heidelberg

Bergen

87

Helsinki

35

Rostock

Ibiza

95

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

102

Innsbruck

17

Salzburg

Bilbao

94

Interlaken

105

Bodensee (Lake Constance)

53

Ischia

Bordeaux

37

Kassel

Bern

78 19, 30, 31

Pula

77

50, 51

52, 61

Prague

Bergamo

Berlin

Page

Pisa

Bamberg

Basel

Destination

45, 49 9, 18, 19, 43

San Gimignano

82

79

Sarnico

77

55

Seville

97

Kraków

89

Siena

82

Bregenz

17, 43

Bremen

54, 55, 56

Kreuzlingen

53

Sirmione

77

Bremerhaven

56

La Gomera

25

Sorrento

78

Brno

19

Leipzig

59, 64

Split

29

22

Leuven

23

Stockholm

99

Linderhof

45

Strasbourg

52

Stuttgart

67

Bruges Brussels

21, 23, 84

Budapest

73

Linz

Canary Islands

24

Lisbon

91

Tallinn

34

Celle

51

Lucca

82

Titisee-Neustadt

52

Cesky Krumlov

30

Lyon

38

Toulouse

37

Chianti

82

Madrid

96

Triberg

52

Cinque Terre

82

Majorca

95

Tromsø

87

Colmar

52

Malaga

97

Valencia

95

Cologne

58

Mechelen

23

Venice

83

Copenhagen

32

Melk

19

Verona

83

Dinkelsbühl

45

Menorca

95

Vienna

9, 19

66

Milan

80

Dortmund Dresden

10, 59

Munich

9, 19

Warnemünde

65

9, 43, 45, 46

Warsaw

89

Dubrovnik

28

Neuschwanstein

45

Weimar

68

Düsseldorf

60

Nice

38

Wiesbaden

69

Einsiedeln

43

Nuremberg

47

Würzburg

Eisenstadt

19

Oberammergau

Erfurt

68

Oslo

87

Zagreb

Europa-Park

14

Paris

39

Zurich

9, 45

44, 45

Zadar

29 29 53, 101, 103

If your desired destination is not featured please call us for more details

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Fred.\ Holidays is a trading name of Fred. Olsen Travel Limited, Olympus House, 2 Olympus Close, Ipswich, IP1 5LN E&OE 108