Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Europe
& The Arctic
Europe 2017-18
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Travel Experienced
The essence of any Cox & Kings holiday is that it will have been planned by a destination expert and brought to fruition by some of the best local
representatives, guides and drivers on the ground. Our team has exceptional experience at organising travel, however complex the itinerary and
however unpredictable the destination. Our aim is to free you from the cares of travel logistics, so that you can fill your mind with the extraordinary
people, wildlife and sights you encounter.
When I picked up the reins of Cox & Kings back in 1986 the company was already almost 10 times older than me. Its illustrious history is extraordinary, not just its
longevity but in how it has reinvented itself as the world around it has changed.
You can read more about our companys story online at coxandkings.co.uk/history, from its foundation by Richard Cox in 1758 as military agents, through
involvement in banking and shipping in the 19th and 20th centuries, to the modern era as a tour operator for discerning travellers.
For me, a common strand running through the entire history is the spirit of innovation, which has remained a driving force for the business to this day. Our
company may be old but its full of youthful energy.
Although Cox & Kings has particular ties with India, I decided early on in my time that we should broaden our reach beyond the Subcontinent and, over the last
25 years, we have gradually extended our range to offer our brand of high quality group tours and private tailored travel to culturally and naturally fascinating
countries all over the world the back cover of this brochure shows you where.
I am proud that we continue to build on the tradition of high quality service and attention to detail that made Richard Cox so successful more than 250 years
ago. I very much hope that this brochure will inspire you to broaden your horizons with Cox & Kings.
Peter Kerkar
Managing Director
info@coxandkings.co.uk
coxandkings.co.uk
Europe
&
The Arctic
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52
58
Introduction
Russia
Eastern Europe
Turkey
Italy
100
152
160
170
Southern Europe
Central Europe
Nordic Europe
Important Information
Classic Russia
Superior tour 8 Days & 7 Nights
16
Majestic Russia
Solo Travellers tour Superior tour 7 Days & 6 Nights
18
20
22
23
St Petersburg Highlights
Non-exclusive group tour Standard tour 5 Days & 4 Nights
Eastern Europe
38
40
42
44
48
Timeless Romania
Superior tour 9 Days & 8 Nights
50
Turkey
56
Classical Turkey
Superior tour 8 Days & 7 Nights
Italy
66
68
Classic Sicily
Superior tour 8 Days & 7 Nights
70
72
Sicilian Explorer
Solo Travellers Superior tour 7 Days & 6 Nights
74
76
78
Classic Tuscany
Standard tour 7 Days & 6 Nights
80
Italy (continued)
81
82
84
86
87
88
Southern Europe
106
Splendours of Andaluca
Superior tour 8 Days & 7 Nights
108
110
112
113
114
124
130
132
136
Classical Greece
Superior tour 7 Days & 6 Nights
138
140
142
148
Nordic Europe
167
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Group Tours
Cox & Kings has been organising the highest
quality group tours for generations and
over that time we have built a deep
understanding of the key ingredients to an
enjoyable tour. These include well-planned
and paced itineraries, expert guidance on
the ground, enough free time to do your own
thing and, not least, the company of likeminded travellers. For those seeking a premium
touring experience, comparing like with like,
Cox & Kings tours offer superb value for money.
Tour Features
Tour Categories
Special Tours
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Accommodation recommendations:
The short break pages in this brochure provide a
small selection of hotel options. These are not all
the hotels that Cox & Kings can book, but they
are our recommendations. More comprehensive
hotel options may be found listed under
Accommodation in the country sections of
our website or under the Short Breaks section
reached via the Type of Holiday link.
Accommodation ratings:
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Russia
Group tours Tailor-made travel River
cruises Rail journeys Short Breaks
Russia is a vast country, the largest country in the world
in fact. Stretching from eastern Europe all the way across
to northern Asia, it covers 11 time zones and a huge range
of environments. To the south are immense stretches of plains and steppes while to the
north are forests and tundra. This huge expanse of land is broken up by features such
as the Ural mountains, separating Europe and Asia; Lake Baikal, the worlds oldest and
deepest freshwater lake; and thousands of rivers, the Volga being the best known.
Moscow and St Petersburg are the major political and cultural centres. Moscow is the Russian
powerhouse, where ancient monasteries mix with Soviet-era tower blocks and modern
skyscrapers, while St Petersburg was founded just 300 years ago and is perhaps one of the most
elegant cities in the world, with tranquil canals, magnificent palaces and world-class museums.
Whether its a short city break in St Petersburg, a leisurely cruise along the Volga, or the trip of a
lifetime on the Trans-Siberian railway, you are sure to be amazed by the beauty and history that
Russia has to offer.
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11
12
13
28
Discover Russia
Moscow
St Petersburg
Kizhi Island, Goritsy & Uglich
Volgograd, Novgorod & Irkutsk
The Trans-Siberian Railway
Small group & private tours
14
Classic Russia Group or private
16 Majestic Russia Solo Travellers tour
18 St Petersburg: Pictures & Palaces
Royal Academy tour
20
Moscow: Art of the Russian
Revolution Royal Academy tour
22
Russias Golden Ring
Non-exclusive group tour
23
St Petersburg's Highlights
Non-exclusive group tour
24 Volga Dream Cruise River cruise
26 Imperial Waterways of Russia
River cruise
30 The Trans-Siberian Railway Aboard the
Golden Eagle Rail journey
31 The Trans-Siberian Railway Aboard
the Tsars Gold Rail journey
32
Short breaks
St Petersburg
Climate
The weather in Russia varies from cold Arctic conditions to hot desert and subtropical lands, where tea and rice are grown.
The major cities of Moscow and St Petersburg have some of the countrys most variable weather, ranging from hot
summers to freezing cold winters.
Moscow
St Petersburg
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -6 -4 1
10 19 22 23 22 16
1 -3
A -5 -4 1
8 16 20 22 20 15
B -13 -12 -6
2 -3 -9
B -11 -10 -6
3 -2 -8
8 12 13 12 7
C 41 35 33 43 51 74 93 76 64 58 57 54
6 11 14 12 8
2 -3
C 39 31 35 36 40 59 75 83 70 64 60 50
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations,
places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Russia experts.
t
info@coxandkings.co.uk
coxandkings.co.uk
RUSSIA
Discover
Russia
Moscow
Array of architecture spanning Russian history
Celebrated Bolshoi theatre
Russias capital is a city of contrasts where a mixture of architectural
styles, from medieval to modern, stand side by side, epitomising the
changes that have swept through the country.
The citys origins as a symbol of Russian spiritual and political power
go back 850 years, and Moscow retains its influence to this day. The
Kremlin is at the heart of Moscow. Next to it, Red Square is home to
the magical St Basils Cathedral and Lenins tomb. Moscows celebrated
metro survives in all its constructivist glory, with an opulent design
featuring chandeliers and marble that has led to 44 of its stations being
designated as architectural landmarks.
Moscow is also home to the world-renowned Bolshoi theatre, which
stages leading ballet and opera performances. If you plan to make a
trip to Moscow then make sure to visit over a weekend, as room rates are
considerably cheaper than during mid-week.
10
St Petersburg
Grand architecture & peaceful canals Extensive
artistic & cultural collections at the Hermitage
museum Imperial palaces
Created 300 years ago by Peter the Great as his window on the west, St
Petersburg is a city unlike any other in Russia or, indeed, in the whole of
Europe. Its grand beauty, wealth of cultural treasures and the intrigue of
its rich history make it unforgettable.
Dubbed the Venice of the north for its palace-lined waterways,
St Petersburg escaped the architectural incursions of Stalinism and
its grandiose relics of tsarist days are virtually intact. The waterside
walkways and elegant streetscapes are best seen on foot. Several
excellent museums are to be found here, including the immense displays
of the Hermitage and the glittering treasures of the Faberg Museum.
Located close to the city are Pavlovsk, Peterhof and Catherine Palace, all
imperial palaces with their own unique characteristics. Pavlovsk has fine
landscaped gardens, Catherine Palace features the renowned Amber
Room, and Peterhof displays ornate fountain cascades.
Palace in Pavlovsk, St Petersburg
C&K Recommends...
The Bolshoi theatre
11
RUSSIA
Kizhi Island
Goritsy
Uglich
Golden Ring town Church of St Dmitry The
Assumption Cathedral of the Alexeievsky monastery
The small town of Uglich is located in the Golden Ring region of
northern Russia, a ring of ancient towns that all witnessed significant
events in Russian history. Uglich dates back to 937AD, and it was in
the turbulent times following the reign of Ivan the Terrible that the
town became the site of one of the most significant deaths in Russian
history. Ivan the Terribles young son Dmitry was killed in Uglich in
1591, marking both the end of the Rurik dynasty and the advent of the
Time of Troubles, Russias most turbulent political era. The Romanovs
canonized Dmitry, and in 1690 built the Church of St Dmitry, a
blue-domed cathedral located on the spot of the boys death. Uglich
also features many other examples of ancient Russian architecture,
notably the Assumption Cathedral of the Alexeievsky Monastery, a pearl
of the Russian medieval period.
12
RUSSIA
Volgograd
Formerly Stalingrad Second world war history Red
October tractor factory
Situated on the west bank of the Volga river, the city of Volgograd will
always be renowned for the siege of the city, which took place during
the second world war, and for its former name, Stalingrad. Seen as one
of the pivotal moments of the war, heavy fighting over a seven-month
period reduced the city to rubble but inflicted the first defeat on the axis
powers. Today, the city is an important industrial centre and a major
railway junction.
Novgorod
Kremlin Museum of Wooden Architecture Church of
Transfiguration
At the confluence of the Volga and Oka rivers, Veliky Novgorod is the
site of the first permanent settlement for the Varangian Norsemen who
established the embryonic Russian state. This former capital was Russia's
largest city in the 12th century and spent more than 600 years as the
country's political and artistic centre. Home to monasteries, churches,
museums and a kremlin, Novgorod is a fascinating city.
Novgorodsky kremlin, Novgorod
A suggested itinerary...
Irkutsk
Gateway to Lake Baikal Trans-Siberian railway
Irkutsk is the largest city in Siberia and the capital of the Irkutsk region.
The history of the city can be traced back to the beginning of the 17th
century, but the town came to prominence with the introduction of the
Trans-Siberian railway and the exiling of members of the Decembrist
Revolt. Today, the town is a thriving city and a popular tourist spot due
to its proximity to Lake Baikal.
Museum. (B)
Day 7: Fly home (B)
Guideline Prices
Year-round from 1,350
Tailored travel
13
RUSSIA TOURS
Classic
Russia
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Russias two greatest cities provide
an ideal base from which to explore
the countrys rich and diverse cultural
and historical heritage. Moscow is
now the epicentre of the new Russia,
while St Petersburg is renowned for
its magnificent palaces, world-class
museums, elegant canals and grand
architecture.
C&K highlights
Stay in 5-star hotels throughout
Comprehensive programme of tours
Direct flights with British Airways
Visits to the Summer Palace at Pushkin
and the fountains of Peterhof
Explore the Kremlin in Moscow and the
Hermitage in St Petersburg
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Moscow
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -6 -4 1
10 19 22 23 22 16
B -13 -12 -6
2 -3 -9
8 12 13 12 7
1 -3
C 41 35 33 43 51 74 93 76 64 58 57 54
Area Map
14
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Important information
Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each
destination en route by a local tour escort.
You will be assisted with boarding the train in
Moscow and met on the platform on arrival in
St Petersburg.
Superior tour: This tour is based in 5-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Festival departures: Departures in June
coincide with St Petersburgs White Nights
festival, a month-long cultural celebration.
Theatre: Opera or ballet performances in
Moscow or St Petersburg can be pre-booked.
Please contact Cox & Kings for details.
Extensions: Pre- and post-tour extensions are
available in Moscow and St Petersburg, and
include 2 nights accommodation with arrival or
departure transfers.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary
can be taken privately on a date that suits
you, for which guideline prices are shown.
Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact
requirements. Please call 020 7808 6785 or
email info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Group tour
Low season from 1,155
Guide price months: Nov
High season from 1,425
Guide price months: Jun
Private travel
Low season from 1,620
Guide price months: Oct Nov
High season from 1,725
Guide price months: May Jun
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 7 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
World Traveller Plus from 85 (Moscow only)
Club Europe from 685 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Rtn (Fri)
14 Apr 17
21 Apr 17
28 Apr 17
05 May 17
12 May 17
19 May 17
26 May 17
09 Jun 17
16 Jun 17
Out (Fri)
16 Jun 17
23 Jun 17
30 Jun 17
07 Jul 17
14 Jul 17
21 Jul 17
28 Jul 17
04 Aug 17
11 Aug 17
Rtn (Fri)
23 Jun 17
30 Jun 17
07 Jul 17
14 Jul 17
21 Jul 17
28 Jul 17
04 Aug 17
11 Aug 17
18 Aug 17
Out (Fri)
18 Aug 17
25 Aug 17
01 Sep 17
08 Sep 17
15 Sep 17
22 Sep 17
29 Sep 17
06 Oct 17
13 Oct 17
Rtn (Fri)
25 Aug 17
01 Sep 17
08 Sep 17
15 Sep 17
22 Sep 17
29 Sep 17
06 Oct 17
13 Oct 17
20 Oct 17
Out (Fri)
20 Oct 17
27 Oct 17
03 Nov 17
22 Dec 17
29 Dec 17
Rtn (Fri)
27 Oct 17
03 Nov 17
10 Nov 17
29 Dec 17
05 Jan 18
15
RUSSIA TOURS
Majestic
Russia
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Superior
Solo
Tour overview
From Red Square and the Kremlin in
Moscow to the imperial palaces of
St Petersburg, join a group of like-minded
solo travellers on a 7-day tour visiting
some of the best attractions that Russia
has to offer. Both cities are renowned for
their world-class museums and grand
architecture, and each have left their
own cultural legacies on the country.
C&K highlights
Twin / double rooms for single use
Stay in comfortable 4-star hotels in
Moscow and St Petersburg
Direct flights with British Airways
Visits to the Summer Palace at Pushkin
and the Hermitage museum in
St Petersburg
Explore the imposing Kremlin in Moscow
with its armoury museum
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Small group size maximum 18 people
Weather
St Petersburg
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -5 -4 1
8 16 20 22 20 15
B -11 -10 -6
3 -2 -8
6 11 14 12 8
2 -3
C 39 31 35 36 40 59 75 83 70 64 60 50
Area Map
Day 5: Moscow
Morning tour of Moscow. View the magnificent
Red Square with St Basils Cathedral, the
Moscow State University and Novodevichy
Convent. Afternoon at leisure. (B)
Day 6: Moscow
Morning visit to the Kremlin, including Cathedral
Square and the Armoury Museum with its
collection of imperial crowns and carriages.
Optional visit to the Arbat quarter, followed
by a tour of selected Moscow metro stations
so-called underground palaces adorned with
marble and chandeliers. Farewell dinner in the
evening. (B, D)
Day 3: St Petersburg
Morning visit to the worlds largest museum, the
Hermitage. Founded by Catherine the Great and
the former residence of the tsars, the museum
now has an unrivalled collection of European
and Russian masterpieces. Optional afternoon
tour of the Faberg Museum. (B)
Day 4: St Petersburg Moscow
Morning at leisure or optional visit to Peterhof
to view the exterior of Peter the Greats
Summer Palace and explore the gardens. Late
afternoon train to Moscow (4 hours). On arrival,
transfer to the Park Inn Sadu (or similar) for
3 nights. (B)
16
Important information
Solo Travellers group tours: These small
group tours have been specially created for solo
travellers. Benefits include single occupancy
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roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
World Traveller Plus from 85 (Moscow only)
Club Europe from 685 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on single occupancy of a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk.
Rtn (Mon)
01 May 17
22 May 17
Out (Tue)
18 Jul 17
15 Aug 17
Rtn (Mon)
24 Jul 17
21 Aug 17
Out (Tue)
12 Sep 17
03 Oct 17
Rtn (Mon)
18 Sep 17
09 Oct 17
17
RUSSIA TOURS
St Petersburg:
Pictures & Palaces
Duration 6 Days & 5 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
St Petersburg has remained unchanged
since the 18th and 19th centuries.
Conceived by Peter the Great as a 'window
to the west', it is home to sumptuous
palaces, impressive cathedrals and
numerous museums, including one of the
world's largest and finest, the Hermitage.
C&K highlights
Visit the new Faberg Museum to marvel
at the tsars jewels
Learn about the restoration of the Amber
Room at Catherines Palace
Out-of-hours access and behind-thescenes visit to the Hermitage museum
Visit Yusupov Palace for a special viewing
of the lavish gala rooms
Direct flights with British Airways
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturers
Lydia Bauman is a Polishborn art historian and
professional artist with
an MA in art history from
the Courtauld Institute of
Art. She has a permanent
position as a guide and
lecturer at the National Gallery, has wide
experience of teaching the history of
western art and is the author of The Guide to
Great Themes in Art.
Dr Colin Bailey gained
his doctorate in art history
at Nottingham University.
He was assistant keeper
at the Walker Art Gallery
and academic librarian
at the Barber Institute
before establishing a history of art and
design department in Edinburgh. He has led
numerous tours in St Petersburg.
Andrew Spira graduated
from the Courtauld Institute
before working at the Temple
Gallery, London (specialists
in Russian icons), and as
a curator at the Victoria &
Albert museum. He was a programme director
at Christies Education for 14 years and has led
numerous cultural tours to Europe and beyond.
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Day 4: St Petersburg
This morning, visit neoclassical Shuvalov Palace,
home to the newly opened Faberg Museum,
the largest single collection of Faberg artefacts.
Continue to the ochre-painted baroque
Menshikov Palace. Afternoon at leisure or revisit
the Hermitage independently. (B)
Day 5: Pushkin Pavlovsk
Drive to Pushkin on the outskirts of the city to
visit Catherines Palace (Tsarskoe Selo), including
the Amber Room. Listen to the story of the
rooms restoration and watch amber being
worked in the newly opened workshop while
enjoying a glass of wine. Continue to the Palace
at Pavlovsk, designed by Charles Cameron and
subsequently redesigned by several famous
architects, including Quarenghi and Rossi.
Return to your hotel for a lecture followed by a
farewell dinner. (B, D)
Day 6: Fly to London
Morning visit to Yusupov Palace, which sits
on a quiet stretch of the Moika river and was
the scene of Rasputins murder. At the palace,
a special visit to the private apartments of
Zinaida and Felix has been arranged (subject to
confirmation). Transfer to the airport for a flight
to London with British Airways, or to the railway
station for the Moscow tour*. (B)
Meal basis: As per itinerary B: Breakfast,
L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
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Extensions
Tour + St Petersburg
3 Days & 2 Nights from 195
Extension starts on Day 6 of tour
Tour + Moscow
3 Days & 2 Nights from 345
Extension starts on Day 6 of tour
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours: A
collection of expert-accompanied tours focusing
on creativity in its many forms. All RA tours
are open to everyone and can be viewed at
coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by the lecturer, as well as an
experienced local guide where necessary.
Superior tour: Based in 4-star accommodation.
Please visit this tour on our website to see
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 645 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
19
RUSSIA TOURS
Moscow:
Art of the Russian Revolution
Duration 5 Days & 4 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
In the centenary of the 1917 Russian
revolution, travel to Moscow with
expert art historians Andrew Spira or
Monica Bohm-Duchen to explore the
art inspired by the Bolshevik seizure of
power and the upheaval that followed.
The movement to ensure that the
arts served the new ideology of the
dictatorship of the proletariat fed the
Russian avant-garde, striving to dispose
of the conventions of bourgeois art.
This movement eventually clashed with
the newly emerged state-sponsored
direction of Socialist realism. See
examples of these genres and many
others that track the development of
Russian art since the revolution.
Taganskaya metro station, Moscow
C&K highlights
Tour complements the RA exhibition
Revolution: Russian Art 1917-1932
(11 Feb 17 Apr 2017)
See the art of the Russian Revolution in its
centenary year
Track the influences on Russian art
through the ages
In-depth visits to Moscows premier art
museums
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturers
Andrew Spira graduated
from the Courtauld Institute
before working at the
Temple Gallery, London
(specialists in Russian icons),
and as a curator at the
Victoria & Albert museum.
He was a programme director at Christies
Education for 14 years and has led numerous
cultural tours to Europe and beyond.
Monica Bohm-Duchen is
an independent lecturer,
writer and curator. Based
in London, the institutions
she has worked for include
the Courtauld Institute,
Sothebys Institute of
Art, Tate, the National Gallery, the Royal
Academy of Arts and Birkbeck College. Her
latest book, Art and the Second World War,
was published in 2013.
20
Day 5: Moscow
Morning visit to the Schusev State Museum of
Architecture, which includes material on Russian
constructivism. Continue to the Garage Museum
of Contemporary Art in Gorky Park. Transfer to
the airport for your flight to London. (B)
Meal basis: As per itinerary B: Breakfast,
L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Extensions
Tour + Moscow
3 Days & 2 Nights from 195
Extension starts on Day 5 of tour
Tour + St Petersburg
3 Days & 2 Nights from 295
Extension starts on Day 5 of tour
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours: A
collection of expert-accompanied tours focusing
on creativity in its many forms. All RA tours
are open to everyone and can be viewed at
coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
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Rabochiy i Kolkhoznitsa (Worker and Kolkhoz Woman) by sculptor Vera Mukhina, Moscow
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 625 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
21
RUSSIA TOURS
Russia's
Golden Ring
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Onion-domed churches, medieval
monasteries, traditional crafts and
beautifully unspoilt countryside
characterise the string of ancient
settlements to the north-east of Moscow,
known as the Golden Ring. Starting in
Moscow, take a detour via these quaint
towns and villages en route to
St Petersburg the final stop on the tour.
Day 6: St Petersburg
This morning, visit the world-renowned
Hermitage museum and its enormous collection
of artwork. Your guide will ensure you see the
best of the exhibits. (B)
C&K highlights
Stay in 3- and 4-star hotels throughout
with First Class rail to St Petersburg
Visits to the Golden Ring towns of
Vladimir, Suzdal and Bogolyubovo
Included visits to the Kremlin in Moscow
and the Hermitage in St Petersburg
View the magnificent Amber Room in
Catherine Palace at Pushkin
Weather
Moscow
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -6 -4 1
10 19 22 23 22 16
B -13 -12 -6
2 -3 -9
8 12 13 12 7
1 -3
C 41 35 33 43 51 74 93 76 64 58 57 54
Area Map
22
Important information
Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each
destination en route by a local tour guide.
Standard tour: This tour is based in 3- and
4-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Non-exclusive tour: This tour will have transfers
and excursions shared with one or more other
parties who may or may not be Cox & Kings
clients. The maximum number of passengers
per departure is 25. Cox & Kings is acting as an
agent on behalf of Intourist and its cancellation
conditions will apply. Please contact Cox & Kings
for details.
TOURS RUSSIA
St Petersburg's
Highlights
Duration 5 Days & 4 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Built over 300 years ago by Peter the
Great as his 'window on the west',
St Petersburg is a city unlike any other.
In between the peaceful riverside
walkways and canals the city is packed
with the grandiose relics of tsarist days:
visit grand parks, imperial palaces, the
former citadel and museums bursting
with treasures.
C&K highlights
Stay in a city centre 4-star hotel
English-speaking guide throughout
Tour of the city's highlights, including the
Peter and Paul Fortress
Visit the vast Hermitage museum
Excursion to see Catherine Palace and the
Amber Room
The Catherine Palace, St Petersburg
Weather
St Petersburg
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -5 -4 1
8 16 20 22 20 15
B -11 -10 -6
3 -2 -8
6 11 14 12 8
2 -3
C 39 31 35 36 40 59 75 83 70 64 60 50
Day 2: St Petersburg
This morning, tour some of the highlights of
St Petersburg including the city's main street,
Nevsky Prospekt, the Admiralty buildings, the
immense Kazan Cathedral, the glittering domes
of the Church of Our Saviour on Spilled Blood
and Anichkov Bridge. In the afternoon visit Peter
and Paul Fortress, the original citadel and a
museum. (B)
Day 3: St Petersburg
After breakfast, spend the morning admiring the
art collections in the Hermitage museum, home
to an enormous array of treasures and artwork
by great masters. Your guide will ensure that
you see the best of the exhibits. Afternoon at
leisure. (B)
Day 4: Pushkin
Today, travel to the town of Pushkin just outside
St Petersburg for a guided tour of Catherine
Palace. Marvel at the opulence of this immense
rococo palace and visit the legendary Amber
Room, which famously disappeared during the
second world war and has only recently been
reconstructed. (B)
Important information
23
RUSSIA TOURS
Volga Dream
Cruise
Duration 13 Days & 12 Nights
Category Superior
Day 8: Kizhi
Explore the Unesco world heritage site of Kizhi
island. Visit the open-air museum of history and
architecture, and the Transfiguration Cathedral.
Featuring 22 carved domes, it is made entirely
from wood, without a single nail. (B, L, D)
Tour overview
Visit both the more rural settings of
Russia and the major sights of its two
key cities Moscow and St Petersburg
on this cruise along the scenic rivers,
lakes and canals of the Volga. Set amid
the countryside of the upper Volga
region are the magical medieval towns
of Russias Golden Ring a string of
ancient settlements as well as the
mystical Kizhi island with its fabulous
wooden architecture.
Day 9: Mandrogi
Stop at the small town of Mandrogi and explore
the local craft centres. (B, L, D)
Day 10: St Petersburg
Disembark and transfer to the Kempinski Moika
22 for 3 nights. Morning tour of St Petersburg
to view the Peter and Paul Fortress and Nevsky
Prospekt. Afternoon visit to the Hermitage. (B, L)
C&K highlights
Cruise the picturesque Russian waterways,
stopping at medieval towns and Kizhi island
Complimentary wine and drinks served
with lunch and dinner on board the cruise
Spend 3 nights in Moscow and 3 nights in
St Petersburg
Visits to the Kremlin, Hermitage, Pushkin
and Peterhof included
Weather
Goritsy
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -6 -5 2
10 17 22 14 21 15
7 -1 -5
B -13 -13 -8
-1 5 10 13 10 6
1 -6 -11
C 32 28 26 21 40 65 61 57 35 46 27 29
24
Day 6: Yaroslavl
Explore the oldest city on the Volga and visit the
Saviour Transfiguration Cathedral in the Spassky
monastery and the Church of Elijah the Prophet,
which features intricate frescoes. (B, L, D)
Day 7: Goritsy
Stop in the town of Goritsy to visit the enormous
17th-century Kirillov-Belozersky monastery and
its magnificent frescoes and icons. (B, L, D)
Important information
Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each
destination en route by a local tour escort.
Superior tour: Based in 5-star accommodation.
Please visit this tour on our website to see
details of the hotels included.
Non-exclusive tour: This tour will have
transfers and excursions shared with one or
more other parties who may or may not be
Cox & Kings clients. Cox & Kings is acting as an
agent on behalf of Volga Dream Cruises and its
cancellation conditions will apply. Please contact
Cox & Kings for details.
Itinerary: The cruise itinerary is subject to
change due to weather conditions, varying
water levels and lock passage. Some departures
operate in reverse order.
Other cruise options: Volga Dream Cruises
also operates specialist cruises, including a
Moscow to Astrakhan cruise, which features
visits to the Russian cities of Kazan, Samara
and Volgograd.
XXXXXXXXXX
Group tour
Low season from 2,295
Guide price months: Jul Aug
Single rooms:
Standard single on the Promenade deck: 3,695
Deluxe single on the Sun deck: 4,170
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Owners Suite, Volga Dream
Platinum Package
Upgrade to the Volga Dream Platinum package.
This caters for discerning travellers who prefer
to travel in a smaller group and stay in the finest
hotels. In Moscow and St Petersburg, stay at the
St Regis Moscow Hotel Nikolskaya and the Grand
Hotel Europe. The maximum group size will be up
to 15 passengers on sightseeing tours. Additional
visits are included to the Kremlin Diamond Fund
and the Museum of Cosmonautics in Moscow,
as well as early entrance to the Hermitage in
St Petersburg. Please speak to a Cox & Kings
consultant for details.
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Out
12 Jul 17
18 Jul 17
30 Jul 17
05 Aug 17
11 Aug 17
Rtn
24 Jul 17
30 Jul 17
11 Aug 17
17 Aug 17
23 Aug 17
Out
17 Aug 17
24 Aug 17
30 Aug 17
07 Sep 17
13 Sep 17
Rtn
29 Aug 17
05 Sep 17
11 Sep 17
19 Sep 17
25 Sep 17
Out
21 Sep 17
27 Sep 17
Rtn
03 Oct 17
09 Oct 17
25
RUSSIA TOURS
Imperial Waterways
of Russia
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
The Volga is the longest river in Europe
and is often seen as the heart of Russia.
From its beginnings in the far north
of the country to the shores of the
Caspian Sea, travelling on the Volga, its
tributaries and connecting waterways
is considered to be one of the best ways
of viewing rural and traditional Russia.
This 8-day cruise on the MS Rostropovich
offers a glimpse into both present day
and historical Russia. Nights are spent
aboard the ship in both Moscow and St
Petersburg, and en route between the
cities excursions are made to the various
villages and sights of interest.
C&K highlights
Visits to the Golden Ring towns of Uglich,
Goritsy and Mandrogi
Included visits to the Kremlin & Hermitage
Cabins with balconies available for a
supplement
MS Rostropovich features two restaurants
and a lift
Weather
Moscow
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -6 -4 1
10 19 22 23 22 16
B -13 -12 -6
2 -3 -9
8 12 13 12 7
1 -3
C 41 35 33 43 51 74 93 76 64 58 57 54
Area Map
26
Important information
Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each
destination en route by a local tour escort.
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Non-exclusive cruise: This tour will have
transfers and excursions shared with one or
more other parties who may or may not be
Cox & Kings clients. Cox & Kings is acting as an
agent on behalf of Asla Group Limited and its
cancellation conditions will apply. Please
contact Cox & Kings for details.
Itinerary: The cruise itinerary is subject to
change due to weather conditions, varying
water levels and lock passage. Some departures
operate in reverse order.
Extensions: Stay an additional 2 nights in
Moscow prior to the tour and 2 nights in
St Petersburg at the end in 4-star hotels
including all transfers from 315 per person.
XXXXXXXXXX
Kremlin, Moscow
MS ROSTROPOVICH
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Out
06 May 17
13 May 17
20 May 17
27 May 17
03 Jun 17
10 Jun 17
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Out
Rtn
17 Jun 17 24 Jun 17
24 Jun 17 01 Jul 17
01 Jul 17 08 Jul 17
08 Jul 17 15 Jul 17
15 Jul 17 22 Jul 17
22 Jul 17 29 Jul 17
Out
29 Jul 17
05 Aug 17
12 Aug 17
19 Aug 17
26 Aug 17
02 Sep 17
Rtn
05 Aug 17
12 Aug 17
19 Aug 17
26 Aug 17
02 Sep 17
09 Sep 17
Out
Rtn
09 Sep 17 16 Sep 17
16 Sep 17 23 Sep 17
23 Sep 17 30 Sep 17
27
RUSSIA
Discover
The Trans-Siberian Railway
Travelling through eight time zones, two continents and over
9,000km, the Trans-Siberian railway is often seen as the ultimate
rail journey. From the imperial splendour of Russia, venture into
the untamed wilderness of Asia. Cross vast steppes and soaring
mountain ranges, skirt the waters of the worlds deepest lake and
traverse nomadic lands, before finally arriving in the far eastern
reaches of Asia. A trip on the Trans-Siberian is a once-in-a-lifetime
experience for even the most seasoned traveller.
These pages detail the different routes available on this rail
network as well as the different categories of train, from basic but
comfortable carriages to the ultimate in rail luxury, followed by
two possible itineraries.
Routes
The Trans-Siberian railway is in fact a network of railways with three
main routes:
The Trans-Siberian
The Trans-Mongolian
The Trans-Manchurian
Timetable
Moscow to Beijing Train no. 20, departing every Friday. The
duration of the journey is 7 nights.
28
RUSSIA
Trains
From the standard trains which offer comfortable accommodation to
luxurious trains enabling you to travel in sumptuous style, there is a train
to suit each budget on the Trans-Siberian railway.
Standard trains
Cabin features:
Gold Class cabins are 7 sq metres and feature en suite bathrooms
with power showers and underfloor heating, DVD / audio systems and
individual climate control.
Silver Class cabins have similar facilities in a more compact space of
6 sq metres.
The Imperial Suite has a space of 11 sq metres and features a fixed
double bed and lounge area with dressing table.
These are the most popular trains on the Trans-Siberian railway, and
the most affordable. Departing on set days of the week, which vary
according to the route you are taking, they offer basic but comfortable
accommodation.
Cabin features:
Standard cabins feature four beds (upgrade to First Class for two beds).
Each berth has a small table next to a large window, an individual
reading light, a mattress with clean bed linen and pillow.
Lavatory and washing facilities are shared and located at either end of
the carriage.
Seen as the ultimate way to travel through Russia, Mongolia and China,
the Golden Eagle offers impeccable service and accommodation. This
train also has set departure dates throughout the year.
A suggested itinerary...
The Trans-Mongolian:
Moscow to Beijing,
via Mongolia
Ger, Mongolia
Guideline Prices
Year-round from: 2,080
Tailored travel
29
RUSSIA TOURS
Category Luxury
Tour overview
Traversing the expanse of Russia, from
Moscow to Vladivostok, the
Trans-Siberian railway line covers
9,000km, passing through eight time
zones and 80 towns and cities. Along the
way visit Kazan and its Unesco-protected
Kremlin; Novosibirsk; Irkutsk, the capital
of Siberia; and enjoy a barbecue on the
beach of Lake Baikal, the worlds largest
freshwater lake.
Important information
Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each
destination en route by a local tour escort.
C&K highlights
Travel in Silver Class cabins on the worlds
longest rail journey
Explore the Mongolian capital, Ulan Bator
Enjoy a barbecue lunch on the shores of
Lake Baikal
Take a tour in Ulan Ude and enjoy a
concert
View the remote and beautiful scenery
of Siberia
Weather
Vladivostok
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -7 -3 4
12 17 20 24 25 22 14 4 -5
B -19 -15 -7
C 9
6 11 15 17 10
Area Map
30
3 -7 -16
6 13 23 75 89 100 129 86 45 15 14
Kazan kremlin
Day 1: Moscow
Transfer to the Ritz Carlton (or similar) for 1
night. Welcome reception and dinner. (D)
Day 2: Moscow Board the train
Full-day tour of Moscow, including the Kremlin.
In the afternoon, board the Golden Eagle for the
12-night journey to Vladivostok. (B, L, D)
Day 3: Kazan
Morning arrival in Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan.
Visit the Unesco-listed Kremlin. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Ekaterinburg
Cross the Europe-Asia divide and arrive in
Ekaterinburg, capital of the Urals. Visits include
the Romanov execution site. (B, L, D)
Day 5: Novosibirsk
Stop in Novosibirsk and visit the opera house
and Lenin Square. (B, L, D)
Day 6: On board
Day at leisure on board the train. (B, L, D)
Day 7: Irkutsk
Morning arrival in Irkutsk, the Paris of Siberia.
See the major sights and museums. (B, L, D)
Day 8: Lake Baikal
Pass by Lake Baikal, the worlds largest
freshwater lake. Stop for a barbecue at one
of the bays, weather permitting. Continue to
Listvyanka, a small Baikal village. (B, L, D)
Day 9: Ulan Ude
Morning arrival in Ulan Ude where there will be
a tour and concert. (B, L, D)
Day 10: Ulan Bator
Morning arrival in Ulan Bator, capital of
Mongolia. Visit the National History Museum.
Optional visit to Terelj National Park. (B, L, D)
Days 11-13: On board
See Siberia at its most remote and beautiful as
the train enters the permafrost region. (B, L, D)
Day 14: Vladivostok Disembark the train
Morning arrival. Take a tour of this Russian town,
Out
23 Jul 17
05 Aug 17
20 Aug 17
02 Sep 17
Rtn
06 Aug 17
19 Aug 17
03 Sep 17
16 Sep 17
TOURS RUSSIA
Category Superior
Tour overview
Often viewed as the ultimate rail journey,
this 16-day itinerary along the
Trans-Siberian Railway aboard the
Tsars Gold will take you from the
majesty of the Red Square in Moscow,
through the remote Russian steppes to
the heart of Siberia and then onwards to
Mongolia, finally arriving into Beijing in
the north-east of China.
C&K highlights
Stay in 4- and 5-star accommodation
throughout
Visits to the provincial Russian cities of
Kazan, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk
Explore the picturesque village of
Listvyanka and take a boat ride on
Lake Baikal
Comprehensive touring programme in
Beijing, including visits to the Great Wall
and the Forbidden City
Weather
Ulan Bator
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -16 -12 -3
8 16 21 22 21 15
7 10 8
7 -5 -14
-7 -18 -25
15 25 71 86 86 42 15 8
Area Map
Important information
Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each
destination en route by a local tour escort.
Superior tour: Based in 4- and 5-star
accommodation. Cabins are based on the
Classic category. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the accommodation.
Non-exclusive tour: This tour will have transfers
and excursions that may be shared with one or
more other parties who may or may not be
Cox & Kings clients. Cox & Kings is acting as an
agent on behalf of Lernidee Trains & Cruises
and its cancellation conditions will apply. Please
contact Cox & Kings for details.
Alternative itineraries: This journey can also
be taken in reverse, from Beijing to Moscow
(westbound).
Rtn
21 May 17
28 May 17
18 Jun 17
25 Jun 17
14 Jul 17
21 Jul 17
Out
22 Jul 17
29 Jul 17
17 Aug 17
24 Aug 17
09 Sep 17
16 Sep 17
Rtn
06 Aug 17
13 Aug 17
01 Sep 17
08 Sep 17
24 Sep 17
01 Oct 17
31
St Petersburg
Short Breaks
Short break inclusions
Per person prices include international
flights, return private car transfers, and
accommodation, including breakfast.
Flights
Flights are from the following airports:
London Heathrow: British Airways
Additional regional flights are available via
Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Munich, Helsinki
and Copenhagen with Air France, KLM,
Lufthansa, Finn Air and SAS.
Please speak to a tour consultant for
further details and a personalised quote, or
additional hotel options, on 020 7808 6785.
Alternatively, visit our website:
coxandkings.co.uk/short-breaks.
Excursions
City tour
From 57 per person / half day
Exceptional
Exceptional
Hotel Astoria
Features:
Features:
Weather
St Petersburg
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -5 -4 1
8 16 20 22 20 15
B -11 -10 -6
3 -2 -8
6 11 14 12 8
2 -3
C 39 31 35 36 40 59 75 83 70 64 60 50
32
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Exceptional
Luxury
Superior
Taleon Imperial
Angleterre Hotel
Features:
Features:
Features:
Good Standard
Good Standard
Good Standard
Ambassador Hotel
Hotel Dostoevsky
Features:
Features:
Features:
33
XXXXXXXXXX
34
Eastern
Europe
Estonia
Latvia
Lithuania
Poland
Romania
Georgia
Bulgaria
Turkey
Armenia
Climate
The climate in eastern Europe changes from high temperatures during the summer months to freezing conditions in the
winter. The best time time to travel is during the spring and autumn when the temperatures are optimum for visiting the
regions numerous attractions.
Warsaw
Sofia
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -1 1 6 13 19 22 24 23 18 13 6 1
A 2 4 9 15 20 23 26 26 23 16 10 4
B -7 -5 -1 3 8 12 13 12 9 5 1 -4
B -5 -3 0 5 9 12 14 14 11 6 2 -3
C 27 25 27 34 53 68 72 60 45 36 39 36
C 34 36 40 52 81 78 60 51 41 38 54 46
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations,
places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our eastern Europe experts.
t
info@coxandkings.co.uk
coxandkings.co.uk
35
EASTERN EUROPE
Discover
Eastern Europe
Czech Republic
Picturesque capital of Prague The Bone Chapel of
Kutna Hora Revolving theatre at Cesky Krumlov
Historic villages & castles
With Prague as the principal city to visit in the country, the regional towns
are often overlooked by travellers. However, they are only about 3 hours
driving time from the capital and contain many cultural and historical
attractions. Located in the far south is Cesky Krumlov, a small picturesque
town famous for its revolving theatre. The cities of Plzen and Ceske
Budejovice are both renowned for their beer production, while Plzen also
has the oldest synagogue in Europe. Visitors to Kutna Hora can view the
macabre chapel of Sedlec ossuary. Containing the skeletons of around
70,000 people, many of the bones have been artistically used to decorate
the chapel, including a huge chandelier of bones. With short travelling
times and all destinations accessible by rail travel or car, it is easy to view
the many castles and historic villages scattered throughout the country.
St Anne's Church, Vilnius, Lithuania
36
EASTERN EUROPE
Poland
Bulgaria
The two destinations that should not to be missed in Poland are the
thriving capital of Warsaw and historic Krakow, both of which have
numerous cultural attractions. Apart from Krakows Unesco-listed
medieval city centre, there are also a number of nearby places of interest
including the Wieliczka salt mine and Auschwitz concentration camp,
both of which can be visited on day excursions. Travelling between
the two cities is easy via the fast and frequent rail service. In the west
of Poland, the cities of Wroclaw and Poznan are excellent examples
of restored medieval towns, following the destruction wreaked by the
second world war. In the north, on the Baltic coast, is the up-and-coming
city break destination of Gdansk.
Bordered by five countries and with a coastline skirting the Black Sea,
Bulgaria offers three contrasting cities: Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo and Varna.
Sofia is a modern and compact city, with the renowned 10th-century
eastern Orthodox Rila monastery complex easily accessible on a day
excursion. The medieval citadel of Veliko Tarnovo provides a glimpse
of the areas power in the middle ages. The archaeological sites of
southern Bulgaria contain a large number of ancient Thracian tombs,
Kazanlak being the finest example. Varna has Bulgarias largest and most
important museum, and is a good beach destination in the summer
months. Sofia and Varna can easily be combined in a city and beach
break itinerary.
A suggested itinerary...
Balkan Odyssey
Tailored travel
37
Journey Through
the Baltic States
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Since regaining independence in 1991
and joining the EU in 2004, Lithuania,
Latvia and Estonia are flourishing. The
countries rich and colourful histories can
be best appreciated in their capital cities,
which all possess beautiful architecture,
while the surrounding countryside
features lakes, forests and wetlands,
dotted with manor houses, medieval
castles and splendid rococo churches.
C&K highlights
Stay in 4-star accommodation
throughout
Centrally located hotels with character
Discover the baroque and art nouveau
architecture of the Baltics
Three nights in the picturesque city of
Tallinn
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Riga
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -2 -2 3 10 17 20 21 21 16 11 4 0
B -8 -7 -4 1 6 10 12 12 8 4 0 -5
C 36 27 32 41 48 58 77 76 73 61 61 49
Area Map
38
Day 5: Riga
Morning tour of Riga, the Baltics largest and
perhaps most beautiful city. The citys extensive
history has left a legacy of fine architecture,
including art nouveau. Highlights include the
Romanesque dome cathedral, the castle, St
Peters Church and the House of Blackheads.
Afternoon at leisure. (B)
Day 6: Rundale Palace The Hill of Crosses
Vilnius
Morning journey across Latvia to Lithuania via
Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses, a place
of national pilgrimage. Continue to Vilnius and
stay 2 nights at the Novotel Vilnius Centre. (B)
Day 7: Vilnius
Morning tour of Vilnius, including Cathedral
Square, the Gate of Dawn, St Casimirs Church,
the Holy Spirit Church, the KGB museum and
Gediminas Tower. Afternoon at leisure or
optional visit to the picturesque 14th-century
Trakai castle. (B)
Day 8: Fly to London via Riga
Morning transfer to the airport and fly to
London, via Riga, with airBaltic. (B)
XXXXXXXXXX
Group tour
Low season from 995
Guide price months: Sep
Important information
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Rtn (Fri)
12 May 17
09 Jun 17
Out (Fri)
16 Jun 17
08 Sep 17
Rtn (Fri)
23 Jun 17
15 Sep 17
Out (Fri)
22 Sep 17
Rtn (Fri)
29 Sep 17
39
POLAND TOURS
Tour overview
Discover Polands historical and cultural
attractions with Polish expert and art
historian Lydia Bauman. Start in the
capital, Warsaw, with the principal artistic
and historic sites in this re-emerging city,
including Chopins birthplace. Travel to
Krakow, arguably the most beautifully
preserved city in Poland, the ancient
capital and residence of kings.
C&K highlights
Talk from an expert at Dwor
Tomaszowicach, a restored 19th-century
neoclassical manor
Contrast Krakows medieval architecture
with Warsaws Old Town, completely
rebuilt after the second world war
Insight into Jewish culture in 20th-century
Warsaw
Visit Chopins birthplace for an insight into
Polands musical history
View the Wieliczka salt mine carvings
Welcome and farewell group meals
Expert lecturer
Lydia Bauman is a Polishborn art historian and
professional artist with
an MA in art history from
the Courtauld Institute of
Art. She has a permanent
position as a guide and
lecturer at the National Gallery, has wide
experience of teaching the history of
western art and is the author of The Guide
to Great Themes in Art.
Area Map
40
XXXXXXXXXX
Extension
Tour + Krakow
3 Days & 2 Nights from 245
Extension starts on Day 8 of tour
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 295 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
41
BULGARIA TOURS
Bulgaria:
Balkan & Thracian Treasures
Duration 9 Days & 8 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Discover Bulgaria's historical monuments
and mountain scenery with experts
Rowena Loverance or John Osborne.
Begin in Sofia, visiting the National
Historical Museum and its prehistoric
Thracian treasures. Continue to Veliko
Tarnovo, with its stunningly situated
citadel, and the Roman theatre at
Plovdiv. Further stops include the
Thracian tomb at Kazanlak, and Rila
and Bachkovo monasteries.
C&K highlights
Special access at Bachkovo monastery to
see the medieval frescoes
Marvel at gold and silver Thracian
treasures from prehistoric Bulgaria
See remarkable frescoes at the medieval
church of Boyana
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Sofia
Expert lecturers
Rowena Loverance is a
Byzantine art historian,
specialising in sculpture,
mosaics and icons. She
worked for more than 20
years at the British Museum
and is a visiting research
fellow at Kings College, London.
John Osborne is a graduate
in Classics from Cambridge
University and has taught
at Marlborough College
and in the Middle East. He
has developed a particular
interest in the history and
culture of south-east Europe, especially
the architecture of the region, and has led
many tours to this area. He taught himself
Bulgarian and is writing a history of Bulgaria.
Area Map
42
XXXXXXXXXX
Extension
Tour + Varna
4 Days & 3 Nights from 495
Extension starts on Day 9 of tour
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours: A
collection of expert-accompanied tours focusing
on creativity in its many forms. All RA tours
are open to everyone and can be viewed at
coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Standard tour: Based in 3- and 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
over uneven ground and therefore requires a
good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 295 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
43
Tour overview
Explore the spectacular highland
countries of Armenia and Georgia, the
worlds oldest Christian nations, with
expert Dr William Taylor. Both countries
contain a treasure trove of ancient ruins,
churches and monasteries together with
centuries-old folk traditions. Europe
meets Asia in this spectacular and
historic region of the Caucasus, where
visitors will find a friendly welcome,
excellent food and wine, and varied
landscapes.
C&K highlights
Visit awe-inspiring medieval monasteries
Private guided visit by a senior curator at
the Georgia Museum of Art
Exclusive visits to monasteries and
meetings with local religious leaders
All meals included
Expert lecturer
Dr William Taylor is an
Anglican priest, chairman
of the Anglican and Eastern
Churches Association, a
writer, and broadcaster on
the Islamic world and the
Orthodox churches. He has
worked and lived in Jordan,
Cairo and Turkey, and travelled and lectured
in the Middle East and Central Asia.
Area Map
44
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Extension
Tour + Tbilisi
3 Days & 2 Nights from 245
Spend 2 further nights at the Marriott Courtyard
for more time to explore. Includes private
transfer.
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Standard tour: Based in 3- and 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
over uneven ground and therefore requires a
good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Ukraine International Airlines flight upgrades
Business Class from 745 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
45
ROMANIA
Discover
Romania
Bucharest
Palace of Parliament Belle poque architecture
Known for its wide, tree-lined boulevards and belle poque buildings,
Bucharest, Romanias capital, is sometimes known as Little Paris due
to its 19th-century architecture. Designed by French-trained architects,
the city features a triumphal arch and a boulevard reminiscent of
Paris famed Champs-Elyses. Communist rule interrupted Bucharests
cosmopolitan days, but today the capital and Romanias largest city
is experiencing renewed vigour. One building, which can be seen from
nearly any part of Bucharest, is the immense Palace of Parliament. This
pinnacle of Nicolae Ceausescus communist vision is now the worlds
third largest building. Ceausescu bulldozed one sixth of the city in order
to make space for this 12-storey building that has 3,100 furnished
rooms, over 60 galleries and more than 60 reception halls.
Sighioara
Painted Monasteries
46
ROMANIA
Braov
The Black Church Palaces of Pelior and Pele
Bran castle
Braovs old town is filled with striking baroque architecture, fortified
churches, defensive towers and medieval dwellings, which are the legacy
of its German past. The Piata Sfatului, or the central square, is rated as the
finest in the country, lined with baroque facades and streetside cafes. View
the Black Church, the largest gothic church between Vienna and Istanbul.
Beyond the city are Pele castle, the magnificent royal palace of King
Carol I, Romanias first and longest serving monarch; and the palace of
Pelior, which is in the grounds of Pele and has a simple art nouveau
design. The town of Bran is also within an easy 45-minute drive of
Braov, with its celebrated castle, incorrectly believed to have been built
by Vlad Tepes, the 15th-century Wallachian prince upon whom the
novelist Bram Stoker based his vampire, Count Dracula.
A suggested itinerary...
A Unesco world heritage site since 1991, the Danube delta is where
the 2,800-km-long Danube river flows into the Black Sea. Due to its lack
of tides and relatively low depths of water, the area has turned into
the worlds third largest biosphere with over 1,000 species of plants,
3,600 species of animals and 360 species of birds, which migrate here
from Europe, Asia and Africa, with over half making their nests here.
The delta is also renowned for pelican watching. The best method of
transportation to view this wealth of flora and fauna is by small river
craft, which allows for easy access. Depending upon your particular
interests, the average stay is between 2 to 3 days staying in the villages
of Uzlina, Murighiol or Betepe.
Tailored travel
47
ROMANIA TOURS
Timeless
Romania
Duration 9 Days & 8 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
With its wealth of folkloric heritage,
picturesque villages and wonderful
scenery, Romania is fascinating to
explore. This tour discovers the countrys
highlights, including Transylvanias
fortified Saxon churches, Bucovinas
exquisite painted monasteries, dramatic
castles and palaces, medieval towns and
the beautiful Carpathian mountains.
C&K highlights
Stay in 4- and 5-star accommodation
throughout
Stay in centrally located hotels throughout
Discover northern Romanias painted
monasteries
Explore Transylvania & Draculas castle in
Bran
Visit the royal palaces of Pelior & Pele
Selected George Enescu festival departures
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Bucharest
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 1 4 10 18 24 27 29 29 25 18 10 4
B -6 -3 0 6 11 14 16 15 11 6 2 -3
C 41 39 39 46 70 77 58 59 44 32 51 45
Area Map
Day 8: Bucharest*
Morning departure for Bucharest, travelling
through the scenic Olt valley. Afternoon at
leisure. Stay overnight at the Hotel Athenee
Palace Hilton / Hotel Intercontinental. (B)
48
Extensions
XXXXXXXXXX
Important information
Group tour
Low season from 995
Guide price months: Sep
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
49
ROMANIA TOURS
Romania: Mountains,
Monasteries & Medieval Cities
Duration 10 Days & 9 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Visit Transylvania and Bucovina, two of
the most beautiful areas in Romania,
accompanied by experts John Osborne
or Rowena Loverance. This tour
concentrates on the countrys wonderful
architectural tradition, exemplified in the
baroque town squares, palaces, fortified
Saxon churches and medieval Orthodox
monasteries with vivid exterior frescoes.
C&K highlights
Private visit at Pele castle
Meeting with representatives of Mihai
Eminescu Trust
Lunch in a private house in Viscri
Exclusive visit to Cotroceni Palace
Explore the extraordinary painted
Orthodox monasteries of Bucovina
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturers
John Osborne is a graduate
in Classics from Cambridge
University and has taught
at Marlborough College
and in the Middle East. He
has developed a particular
interest in the history and
culture of south-east Europe, especially the
architecture of the region, and has led many
tours to this area.
Rowena Loverance is a
Byzantine art historian,
specialising in sculpture,
mosaics and icons. She
worked for more than 20
years at the British Museum
and is a visiting research
fellow at Kings College, London.
Area Map
50
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Sucevia monastery
Important information
Extension
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Tour + Bucharest
3 Days & 2 Nights from 195
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
51
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52
Turkey
Group tours Tailor-made travel
Climate
Istanbul is blessed with very pleasant summer temperatures. Turkeys Anatolian plateau and Aegean and Mediterranean
coasts are hotter at this time of year, as is the south-east of Turkey. Although mild, the Black Sea region receives more
rainfall throughout the year. The winter months see temperatures drop, but in Istanbul they usually remain above
freezing. The eastern mountainous region of Turkey is cooler throughout the year and particularly in the winter months,
when snow often falls.
Istanbul
Kusadasi
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 8 9 11 16 21 25 27 27 24 19 15 11
A 13 13 16 20 25 29 32 31 28 23 18 14
B 2 3 4 7 12 16 18 18 16 12 8 5
B 4 5 6 9 12 16 18 18 15 12 8 6
C 110 75 72 50 35 28 25 35 43 76 97 126
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations,
places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Turkey experts.
t
info@coxandkings.co.uk
coxandkings.co.uk
53
TURKEY
Discover
Turkey
Istanbul
Melting pot of Asian & European culture Imperial
architecture & bustling bazaars Cruise the Bosphorus
Istanbul, capital of the great Ottoman empire, enjoyed more than four
centuries of imperial patronage, which created one of the most famous
skylines in the world. Its mosques, minarets, palaces and jumble of streets
and houses rise above the sparkling waters of the Bosphorus Strait.
Many of Istanbuls sites are concentrated in the Sultanahmet district,
the historical and cultural centre of the city. View the hippodrome, the
stadium of ancient Byzantium, which once held 100,000 spectators
and featured objects from all corners of the empire. The Blue Mosque
sits next to the hippodrome and owes its name to the exquisite tiles
adorning its interior. Opposite is the Unesco-listed Basilica of St Sophia,
or the Hagia Sofia, built by Emperor Justinian in the sixth century AD.
Beyond these architectural gems, join in the hustle and bustle of the
streets and lose yourself amid the many stalls of the Grand Bazaar and
Spice Bazaar. For an unforgettable view of the city or a trip across to
the Asian side of the city, board a Bosphorus cruise and marvel at the
Ottoman palaces which line the shores.
54
TURKEY
A suggested itinerary...
Tailored travel
55
TURKEY TOURS
Classical
Turkey
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Turkey has played a major role in the
history of the Mediterranean world.
Due to its strategic location straddling
two continents, it has been a crucial
crossroads and staging post on the
trade routes between east and west.
This tour combines the countrys many
natural wonders and man-made marvels,
including the striking architecture of
Hagia Sofia and the Blue Mosque in
Istanbul, the remarkable classical sites of
Troy, Aphrodisias and Ephesus, and the
ancient hot springs of Pamukkale.
C&K highlights
S tay in 5-star hotels in Istanbul, Izmir and
Kusadasi
View Istanbuls Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque
and Topkapi Palace
Tour the ancient Roman city of Ephesus
Included visits to the travertine terraces of
Pamukkale and Troy
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Istanbul
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 8 9 11 16 21 25 27 27 24 19 15 11
B 2 3 4 7 12 16 18
18
16 12 8 5
C 110 75 72 50 35 28 25 35 43 76 97 126
Area Map
56
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Extensions
Pre- and post-tour extensions are available in
Istanbul and Kusadasi, and include 2 nights
accommodation with arrival or departure
transfers. Alternative pre- and post-tour
extensions are also available for Cappadocia,
Edirne, Bursa and Ankara. Please speak to a
Cox & Kings consultant for further details.
Important information
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a local tour manager from arrival
in Istanbul.
Superior tour: Based in 4- and 5-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary
can be taken privately on a date that suits
you, for which guideline prices are shown.
Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact
requirements. Please call 020 7808 6785 or
email info@coxandkings.co.uk.
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 10 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Turkish Airlines flight upgrades
Business Class: Please speak to your consultant
for prices
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Rtn (Sat)
29 Apr 17
13 May 17
Out (Sat)
02 Sep 17
16 Sep 17
Rtn (Sat)
09 Sep 17
23 Sep 17
Out (Sat)
07 Oct 17
Rtn (Sat)
14 Oct 17
57
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58
Italy
Group tours Tailor-made travel
Short breaks
The long booted Italian peninsula is brimming with beautiful scenery,
gastronomic delights, world-class art and architecture, glorious music,
timeless literature and ancient history. Its splendid cultural heritage is the
result of a complex past, where centuries of conflict between states, nations and
world powers have shaped the land and its people.
Discover Italy
60
Rome, Venice & Verona
61 Tuscany and the Tuscan &
Ligurian Rivieras
62 Umbria, Milan, the Italian Lakes &
Emila-Romagna
63 The bay of Naples, Puglia, Basilicata
& Sardinia
64 Sicily
Small group & private tours
66
Lake Como: Villas & Gardens
Group or private
68
Classic Sicily Group or private
70 Sicily: Crossroads of the
Mediterranean Royal Academy
72
Sicilian Explorer Solo Travellers
74
Puglia & Basilicata Group or private
76
Puglia & Basilicata: Italys
Undiscovered South Royal Academy
78
Classic Tuscany Group or private
80 Florence: Patronage & Palaces
Royal Academy
81 Rome: From Romans to the
Renaissance Royal Academy
Short Breaks
Florence & Tuscany
Venice & Rome
The Amalfi Coast & Sicily
Climate
Italy has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. In the north, summers can be very hot
and humid and the winters can be very harsh and cold while in the south winters are mild and the spring, summer and
autumn temperatures are relatively similar.
Rome
Lake Como
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 12 13 16 18 23 27 30 30 27 22 17 13
A 5 7 11 15 19 23 26 25 22 16 10 6
B 3 4 5 8 11 15 17 17 15 11 7 4
B -2 -1 2 6 10 13 16 15 12 8 3 -1
C 83 75 68 62 45 37 19 35 75 97 117 98
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations,
places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Italy experts.
t
info@coxandkings.co.uk
coxandkings.co.uk
59
ITALY
Discover
Italy
Rome
No other city lays bare its soul quite as Rome does; the legacies of
its 3,000-year history are visible almost everywhere. Ruins such as
the Roman Forum and Colosseum still display the might and power
of Ancient Rome, early Christian churches and medieval bell towers
continue to stand tall, lavish Renaissance palaces and wide piazzas
adorn the city, and the imposing architecture of the Fascist era remains
in evidence. Among all this are peaceful gardens and parks, fountains
with elaborate sculptures, aqueducts, statues, obelisks and columns.
Venice has inspired many of the world's greatest artists and writers.
Whether exploring it on foot or by boat, it is a source of constant
inspiration; every tiny canal leads to another grand palace or piazza, a
secret courtyard or hidden church. Its no wonder that this city is ranked as
one of the most romantic in the world. St Marks Square, its magnificent
Italo-Byzantine basilica, the opulent architecture of the Doges Palace and
the Rialto Bridge crossing over the Grand Canal are the obvious sights but
there are also further islands to explore out in the lagoon, such as Murano,
where the world-renowned Venetian glass is blown.
60
Florence
Tuscany
A suggested itinerary...
Day 3: Florence
Morning transfer to the station for the train
journey to Florence. Transfer to the Hotel
Brunelleschi for 2 nights. (B)
Day 4: Florence
Full day at leisure to explore the art and architecture
of Florences compact, vibrant centre. (B)
Day 5: Rome
Morning transfer to the station for the train
journey to Rome. Transfer to Leon's Place Hotel
for 3 nights. (B)
Days 6-7: Rome
Full days at leisure to explore the Eternal City.
Visit the Roman Forum, where Cicero extolled the
virtues of the Republic, view the Spanish steps or
Tailored travel
61
ITALY
Umbrian landscape
Umbria
Easily reached from Milan are the northern lakes of Garda, Como and
Maggiore, making an ideal city and country break in one. Set in the
foothills of the Alps, these lakes are among the most beautiful locations
in Italy. Lake Garda occupies an idyllic setting with small picturesque
towns dotted around its edge. Lake Como, meanwhile, is known for its
wonderful lakeside villas. Lake Maggiore has three small islands: Isola
Bella features a baroque palace, Isola Madre has botanical gardens, and
Rocca Borromeo has a fortress.
Emilia-Romagna
Stunning Byzantine mosaics at Ravenna Porticoed
city of Bologna Taste world-renowned olive oil & ham
in Parma
Not as well known or as visited as its more illustrious neighbours,
Lombardy, Veneto and Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna is one of the wealthiest
and well-developed regions of Italy, and lays claim to the country's third
highest GDP. Bisected by an ancient road that connected Rome to the
north of the county, dating from 187BC, the region is home to the cities
of Parma, famous for its architecture and beautiful rolling countryside,
Bologna, site of the oldest university in the world, and classical Ravenna.
The ancient wonders of Ravenna date back to 401AD when the city
became the capital of the Western Roman Empire with many early
Christian and Byzantine churches and monuments preserved in the city.
62
ITALY
Alberobello, Puglia
Sardinia
One of the lesser-known regions of the country, Puglia, also known as Apulia,
is situated in the south, or heel, of Italy. Visit the Unesco world heritage sites
of Castel del Monte and Alberobello, or just relax on the long stretches of
golden sandy beaches of the Adriatic. With baroque towns, whitewashed
trulli houses, orchards and olive groves to visit, hiring a car and exploring at
your own pace is a good option.
Known for its sandy beaches, pretty harbours and forested mountains,
the island of Sardinia offers wonderful opportunities to explore or simply
relax. Glamorous resorts can be found alongside ancient nuraghe, or stone
settlements, offering a glimpse into the islands pre-historic past. Sardinian
cuisine is a reason in itself to visit, with excellent local seafood and hearty
pastas being the staples.
The ideal base for exploring the Basilicata region is Matera, where dwellings
are carved out of the mountainside and have been used as houses and
churches for the past thousand years. Take an easy walk in the Rock
Churches Park and discover the treasures of the Rupestrian civilisation.
Visit the Rupestrian sanctuary of Madonna delle Tre Porte that formed the
location for Golgotha in Mel Gibsons film The Passion of the Christ.
The Costa Smeralda, which is located in the north-east of the island, is the
location for one of the worlds most exclusive resorts, Porto Cervo, and is
served by Olbia airport. In the south, the capital, Cagliari, offers a varied
collection of architecture, the legacies of a number of fallen empires which
once ruled the island. Situated on the western coast is the town of Alghero,
a picturesque destination with cobbled streets and an old town quarter.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
63
ITALY
Sicily
Palermo cathedral
Palermo
The Palatine Chapel Eclectic architecture of
Palermo cathedral
The capital of the island, Palermo, is divided into two distinct quarters:
the south and north. Both areas can be easily explored on foot and
each offers its own distinct attractions. Any visit to the southern quarter
should include stops at the 12th-century cathedral, which combines
gothic, baroque and Arabic designs; the Palatine Chapel, or Cappella
Palatina, which is a jewel of Arab-Norman art; and the Teatro Massimo,
which was the filming location of the final scenes of The Godfather:
Part III.
The northern quarter is centred around the harbour. Some of its
highlights include the Museo Archeologico Regionale, which contains
an impressive array of antiquities gathered from around the island, and
the Palazzo Abatellis, which houses an excellent collection of Sicilian
art. There is also the quaint Museo Internazionale delle Marionette,
containing the worlds largest collection of puppets, marionettes and
shadow figures.
Greek theatre and Mount Etna, Taormina
North-West Sicily
North-East Sicily
The north-west of Sicily is perhaps the least visited region of the island.
The legacies of previous rulers can easily be found here, with a profusion
of Phoenician, Greek, Norman and Arabic ruins and cathedrals. Head to
Monreale to view its cathedral, one of the finest examples of Norman
architecture in the world. Two of the most popular towns to stay in
are Trapani, located on the western coast, and Cefalu, on the northern
coast. Trapani has a number of attractions located close to it including
the temple complexes of Segesta and Selinunte, as well as the town
of Erice, perched high up on Monte San Giuliano. The centre of Cefalu
is dominated by its cathedral and, with its collection of old fishermens
cottages along the seafront, is considered to be one of the most
picturesque towns in Sicily. The stretch of coastline between Marsala and
Mazara del Vallo is renowned for its wine production, so make sure to
sample a glass or two.
64
ITALY
South-West Sicily
The Valley of the Temples Exquisite Roman mosaics
at Piazza Armenia The ruins of the Hellenistic city of
Morgantina
Containing three of the islands best attractions the Valley of the
Temples, Piazza Armenia and Morgantina the south-west region is
essential on any tour of Sicily. The Valley of the Temples, near to Agrigento,
is an incredible archaeological park comprising eight Greek temples dating
back to the fifth century BC and overlooking the nearby Mediterranean
Sea. The Temple of Concord is one of the best preserved Doric temples in
the world while the Temple of Olympian Zeus was once the largest of its
kind. Outside the town of Piazza Armerina, discover the Villa Romana del
Casale, a Roman villa dating back to the third century AD and containing
an excellent collection of intact mosaics. Housed over many rooms, the
mosaics offer a glimpse of life in an imperial villa. Morgantina was a city
on the ancient trading routes but is now an impressive archaeological site
featuring an ancient theatre and market place.
Southern Sicily
The baroque cities of Noto, Ragusa & Modica Greek
theatre at Syracuse Inspector Montalbano attractions
This region of Sicily is becoming a popular tourist destination due to its
appearance in the television series Inspector Montalbano. Alongside the
filming locations there is an incredible amount to explore. The collection
of southern towns including Ragusa, Caltagirone, Modica and Noto have
been inscribed on the Unesco world heritage list due to their superb
examples of baroque architecture. On the eastern coast is Syracuse, with
one of the finest surviving ancient Greek theatres in the world, which
is still in use today. There is also an excellent regional archaeological
museum and park housing a fascinating collection of statues and
ancient artefacts. Visit Caltagirone, famous for its ceramics, the two
distinct old and new quarters of Ragusa, and the ancient ruins of the
Temple of Apollo on the island of Ortygia.
Temple of Concordia, Valley of the Temples, Agrigento
A suggested itinerary...
In the Footsteps of
Inspector Montalbano
Tailored travel
65
ITALY TOURS
Lake Como:
Villas & Gardens
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Stay in a beautiful lakeside location on
Lake Como, surrounded by panoramic
vistas and pristine waters. From here
take a boat trip on Lake Como to the
delightful town of Bellagio; travel on
the Bernina Express, a scenic narrowgauge rail journey over the Bernina Pass
skirting snow-covered mountain peaks
and glaciers; and visit the Como silk
museum to discover the art of
silk making.
C&K highlights
Cruise on Lake Como
Day trip on the Bernina Express to St
Moritz, one of the most spectacular rail
routes in Switzerland
Dedicated, specialist local guides at the
Villa Carlotta, Villa del Balbianello and the
silk museum in Como
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Lake Como
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 5 7 11 15 19 23 26 25 22 16 10 6
B -2 -1 2 6 10 13 16 15 12 8 3 -1
C 72 71 98 124 158 135 108 137 122 135 120 63
Area Map
66
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Day 6: Como
Full day at leisure. Perhaps take a train to Milan
city centre or simply relax in Como. Farewell
dinner at the hotel this evening. (B)
Day 7: Fly to London
Morning at leisure. Transfer to Milan airport and
fly to London. (B)
Meal basis: As per itinerary B: Breakfast,
L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a local tour manager from arrival
in Milan (except on day 6).
Standard tour: This tour is based in 3- and
4-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can
be taken privately, for which guideline prices are
shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your
exact requirements. Please call 020 7808 6785
or email info@coxandkings.co.uk.
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 5 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Alitalia flight upgrades
Business Class from 470 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
67
ITALY TOURS
Classic
Sicily
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
The Mediterraneans largest island, Sicily,
is as culturally rich as it is beautiful. It
is home to superb Norman architecture,
vibrant Roman floor mosaics, Arabinspired gardens, and probably the finest
Greek temples to be found anywhere in
the world. Alongside this, the island has
some magnificent natural scenery, from
volcanic Mount Etna to quiet beaches in
the south. This tour takes you to the best
that the island has to offer.
C&K highlights
Stay in a 5-star hotel in Syracuse with
sea-view rooms
Centrally located hotel in Taormina
Included visits to Ragusa, Erice and
Monreale
Explore the Valley of the Temples and the
Palatine Chapel
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Palermo
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 13 13 15 18 21 25 28 28 26 22 18 14
B 8 8 9 11 14 18 21 21 19 16 13 10
C 83 67 57 47 22 11 5 17 37 84 82 88
Area Map
68
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Important information
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a local tour manager from arrival
in Catania.
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 4 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
69
ITALY TOURS
Tour overview
Visit Sicily's fine Greek temples,
exuberant Roman floor mosaics, Arabinspired gardens and superb Norman
architecture with experts Olivia Dobell
or Thomas Abbott. Visit the islands
principal sites, including the Valley of
the Temples, the Palatine Chapel, the
baroque town of Noto and Mount Etna.
C&K highlights
Explore the Valley of the Temples
See the Palatine Chapel and its
unparalleled Byzantine mosaics
Drive to the top of Mount Etna
Baroque, Greek and Roman sites
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturer
Olivia Dobell studied
art history at Cambridge
University and has an MA in
18th-century drawings from
the Courtauld Institute.
Currently based in Rome,
she specialises in Italian and
French art and leads tours and lectures in
both countries, as well as further afield.
Thomas Abbott , a
specialist in architectural
history from the baroque
to the 20th century,
graduated in psychology
and art history at Carleton
College, Minnesota, and
completed his studies in the history of art
and architecture at the Technical University
of Berlin. He has also conducted acclaimed
cultural and art tours throughout Europe.
Area Map
70
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Important information
Extension
Tour + Taormina
3 Days & 2 Nights from 295
Extension starts on Day 9 of tour
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 595 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
71
ITALY TOURS
Sicilian
Explorer
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Occupying an important position
between Europe and North Africa, Sicily
has interested many great rulers over
the centuries. Their legacies can be
found in the treasures that they left
behind. Delve into the heart and soul
of this captivating island and discover
magnificent Norman cathedrals,
Greek temple complexes, Roman villas
with exquisite frescoes and Moorish
architecture.
C&K highlights
Twin / double rooms for single use
Stay in a central characterful property in
Palermo in a Superior room
Stay in a coastal 5-star resort in Giardini
Naxos
Included visits to the Valley of the Temples
and the Palatina Chapel
Explore Ortygia, the historical heart of
Syracuse
Five dinners included
Small group size maximum 18 people
Solo
Europes best archaeological sites, the
Valley of the Temples. View the temples of
Juno, Concordia and Heracles as well as the
ruins of the Temple of Zeus. Continue to
Piazza Armerina to see the Villa Romana del
Casale, which houses one of the largest and
finest collection of mosaics ever found in a
Roman villa. Continue to Giardini Naxos and
stay for 3 nights at the Hotel Diamond Naxos
(or similar). (B, D)
Day 5: Giardini Naxos
Full day at leisure to explore this picturesque
coastal town or optional 4x4 tour to Mount
Etna, to view the Sartorius craters, the Alcantara
Gorge and Valley del Bove. (B)
Day 6: Syracuse
Morning drive to Syracuse. Visit the Neapolis
complex, which contains the renowned Greek
theatre. Continue to the historical quarter of the
city, Ortygia, which is well-known for its baroque
architecture. Return to Taormina for an evening
farewell dinner. (B, D)
Day 7: Fly to London
Transfer to Catania airport and fly to London.
with British Airways. (B)
Weather
Taormina
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 11 12 13 16 21 25 28 28 25 20 16 13
B 5 5 6 8 12 16 19 19 17 13 10 7
C 95 74 66 48 34 15 15 23 52 102 82 100
Area Map
72
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Important information
Solo Travellers group tours: These small
group tours have been specially created for solo
travellers. Benefits include single occupancy
of double / twin rooms as standard and at
sensible prices, plus the company of like-minded
travellers. View the complete collection at
coxandkings.co.uk/solo-travellers.
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a local tour manager from arrival
in Palermo.
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 595 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on single occupancy of a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk.
73
ITALY TOURS
Puglia &
Basilicata
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Known as the heel of Italy, the region of
Puglia offers some of the country's most
remote coastline and countryside, dotted
with ancient sites and whitewashed
towns. The neighbouring Basilicata
region is a rustic area with both historic
centres and fine beaches. Over the
centuries, both regions have been
influenced by ancient Greek, Roman and
Norman rule, which is noticeable in the
varied architecture and historic remains
that you will see on this tour.
C&K highlights
Full-day tour of the Unesco world heritage
site of Matera
Included wine, cheese and olive oil tasting
Explore the trulli dwellings of Alberobello
Stay in Lecce, the Florence of the south
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Lecce
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 13 13 15 18 23 27 30 30 27 22 17 14
B 6 6 7 10 13 17 20 20 17 14 10 7
C 81 65 73 43 32 22 16 31 57 87 90 82
Area Map
74
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Important information
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a local tour manager from arrival
in Brindisi.
Standard tour: Based in 3- and 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary
can be taken privately on a date that suits
you, for which guideline prices are shown.
Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact
requirements. Please call 020 7808 6785 or
email info@coxandkings.co.uk.
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 5 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Alitalia flight upgrades
Business Class: Please speak to your consultant
for prices
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Rtn (Sat)
13 May 17
17 Jun 17
Out (Sat)
02 Sep 17
16 Sep 17
Rtn (Sat)
09 Sep 17
23 Sep 17
Out (Sat)
07 Oct 17
Rtn (Sat)
14 Oct 17
75
ITALY TOURS
Tour overview
Explore Puglia and Basilicata, situated
upon the heel of Italy, with experts Dr
Colin Bailey or Stephen Nelson. These
provinces encompass a wide stretch
of the beautiful Adriatic coastline and
offer some of Italys best food and
finest wines. Discover a treasure trove
of fascinating cathedrals and castles, as
well as unique trulli houses in Alberobello
and ancient cave dwellings in Matera.
All these architectural styles display
the diverse range of cultural influences
on the region, from 12th-century
Romanesque to 17th-century baroque.
C&K highlights
In-depth exploration of a wonderful
medley of architectural styles and
techniques
Walking tour of the Unesco-listed trulli
village of Alberobello
Discover Materas ancient cave dwellings
See the distinctive baroque churches in
Lecce
View important Romanesque architecture
in Bari
Direct flights with British Airways
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturers
Dr Colin Bailey gained
his doctorate in art history
at Nottingham University.
He was assistant keeper
at the Walker Art Gallery
and academic librarian
at the Barber Institute
before establishing a history of art and
design department in Edinburgh. He has led
numerous tours in Italy.
Stephen Nelson has
extensive knowledge of
Italian art history and
contemporary art, and
lectures regularly in Italy
and the UK. He is also an
artist and works in London
and Italy. His practice is sculpture based
and he has shown his work internationally,
in both solo and group exhibitions. Stephen
lives in Basilicata.
76
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Matera
Extension
Tour + Bari
3 Days & 2 Nights from 245
Extension starts on Day 7 of tour
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 200 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
77
ITALY TOURS
Classic
Tuscany
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
From a rich history and long-held
traditions to a remarkable artistic legacy,
picturesque landscapes and superb
cuisine, discover all aspects of this
extraordinary Italian region. Visit the
great rival Renaissance cultural cities of
Florence, Siena, Pisa and Lucca, as well
as the smaller yet no less significant
towns of San Gimignano and Pienza.
Get to the real heart of the Tuscan way
of life and savour the local produce of
the celebrated wine-growing region of
Chianti.
C&K highlights
Explore Tuscanys beautiful cities and
countryside
Stay in just one ideally located hotel
Walking tours of historic Siena and Pisa
Full day tour of the Chianti wine-growing
region
Wine, olive oil and cheese tastings
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Florence
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 9 11 14 18 23 26 30 29 26 20 14 10
B 1 2 4 7 11 14 17
16
14 10 6 2
C 69 67 71 69 67 51 35 60 73 77 114 76
Area Map
78
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San Gimignano
Important information
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 5 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Rtn (Thu)
18 May 17
20 Jul 17
Out (Fri)
18 Aug 17
01 Sep 17
Rtn (Thu)
24 Aug 17
07 Sep 17
Out (Fri)
22 Sep 17
Rtn (Thu)
28 Sep 17
79
ITALY TOURS
Florence:
Patronage & Palaces
Duration 6 Days & 5 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Uncover the artistic riches of Florence
with experts Sin Walters or Gayna
Pelham. In the 15th century, Florence
was an immensely wealthy and powerful
city state, where the principal Florentine
families were able to commission great
architects and artists to adorn their city
with buildings, statues and paintings. As
a result, modern-day Florence is packed
with artistic riches. It is not uncommon
for many masterpieces, monuments and
private palaces to be missed on a first
visit to the city, simply because they are
located away from the main sights and
museums. This tour includes visits to a
number of hidden gems and palaces not
easily accessible to the public.
C&K highlights
Private walk through Corridoio Vasariano
Private visit to Palazzo Corsini
Extended visit in the seminal New Sacristy
of San Lorenzo, designed by Michelangelo
Extended tour of the newly renovated
cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturers
Sin Walters studied
history of art at Selwyn
College, Cambridge and has
worked in France and Italy.
She lectures for the National
Gallery, Nadfas and Surrey
University, and leads art
history tours abroad. Her areas of interest
are Italian Renaissance painting and the art
of Spain. In 2016 Sin was shortlisted for the
Wanderlust World Guide Awards.
Gayna Pelham is an
artist and lecturer based in
London. She studied Fine
Art at Middlesex University
and since then has exhibited
in many group and solo
shows. Gayna lectures at the
National Gallery, Portrait Gallery, Courtauld
Institute and Wallace Collection, as well
as for a variation of private and corporate
groups of all ages.
Day 4: Florence
Visit the Uffizi Gallery and take a private walk
through the celebrated Corridoio Vasariano.
Afternoon at leisure. (B)
Day 5: Florence
Morning visit to the Palazzo del Bargello, a former
prison that is now an art museum. Continue to
Santa Margherita dei Cerchi, known as Dantes
Church, and the basilica of Santa Croce. In
the afternoon, visit the basilica of Santa Maria
Novella, followed by Santa Maria del Carmine
church to see frescoes. Farewell dinner. (B, D)
Duomo, Florence
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Standard tour: Based in 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 295 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
80
TOURS ITALY
Tour overview
Explore Rome's artistic past with experts
Dr Nigel Spivey or Olivia Dobell. When
the papacy returned to Rome in 1420,
after more than a century in exile,
Pope Martin V found the city in ruins.
Humanists, patrons and artists sought to
return Rome to its former glory, inspired
by the classical remains. This process
reached its climax under Pope Julius
II (1503-1513) in what is called the
High Renaissance. He commissioned
Bramante to design the new St Peters
Basilica, Michelangelo to paint the
Sistine Chapel ceiling and Raphael to
decorate the Stanze di Raffaello (papal
apartments). This Golden Age had its
centre at the Vatican and was defined
by a renewed interest in the culture of
classical antiquity.
C&K highlights
Extra time in the Sistine Chapel once the
crowds have departed
Full day to explore the Vatican City
Special access to Carraccis ceiling fresco
cycle at Farnese Palace
Insight into the influence of classical
antiquity on the Renaissance era
Semi-private visit to the Vatican Museums
& Sistine Chapel with exclusive access to
areas not usually open to the public
Welcome and farewell group meals
Expert lecturers
Dr Nigel Spivey is a senior
lecturer in classics at the
University of Cambridge,
teaching Classical art
and archaeology and
its reception in the
Renaissance. He has written
extensively on the history of art; titles
include Greek Art, Enduring Creation and
How Art Made the World (the latter was a
major BBC / PBC television series).
Olivia Dobell studied
art history at Cambridge
University and has an MA in
18th-century drawings from
the Courtauld Institute.
Currently based in Rome,
she specialises in Italian and
French art and leads tours and lectures in
both countries, as well as further afield.
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Itinerary: Due to the fluid nature of opening
and closing times of the churches and museums,
the specified day for each excursion may need to
be altered closer to the departure date.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Alitalia flight upgrades
Business Class from 395 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
81
ITALY TOURS
The Riches of
Emilia-Romagna
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
The region of Emilia-Romagna has a
fascinating history and is renowned as
the producer of the best Italian cuisine,
from prosciutto, parmesan cheese and
balsamic vinegar to other specialities such
as tortellini and lasagne. Bologna is home
to the oldest university in the western
world while Ravenna was once the capital
of the western Roman empire. There are
many beautiful cities including Modena,
Parma and Ferrara, as well as ancient
Etruscan sites and monuments scattered
throughout the region.
C&K highlights
Tour of Ravenna, home to eight Unesco
world heritage sites
Visit a lute workshop and listen to a short
recital
Ham, parmesan and mortadella tasting
experiences
Local guides and local tour manager
throughout
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Bologna
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 5 8 12 17 22 26 29 28 24 18 11 6
B -1 1 4 7 11 15 17 17 14 10 4 0
C 60 57 69 74 68 58 45 62 70 75 101 69
Area Map
82
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Important information
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 10 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
83
ITALY TOURS
Bologna: Treasures of
Emilia-Romagna
Duration 4 Days & 3 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Travel to the heart of Emilia-Romagna
with experts Olivia Dobell or Andrew
Spira. Home to the oldest university in
the west and world famous for its cuisine,
Bologna is one the most diverse and
overlooked cities in Italy. Graced with an
inordinate number of medieval towers
and uniquely colonnaded streets, the city
has been a leading centre for science and
art for over a thousand years. This tour
also includes a day exploring Modena
and Parma, two of the most distinctive
towns in the region, and their unique
historical and cultural monuments.
C&K highlights
Eclectic mix of architecture, ranging from
medieval wooden porticoed streets
to Romanesque cathedrals and baroque
theatres
Fine works of art by Bolgnese artists in the
National Art Gallery of Bologna
Exceptional regional cuisine including
fresh pastas and meats such as mortadella
and Parma ham
Explore Emilia-Romagna's major cities:
Bologna, Parma and Modena
Welcome and farewell group meals
Expert lecturers
Olivia Dobell studied
art history at Cambridge
University and has an MA
in 18th-century drawings
from the Courtauld Institute.
Currently based in Rome,
she specialises in Italian and
French art and leads tours and lectures in
both countries, as well as further afield.
Andrew Spira graduated
from the Courtauld Institute
before working at the
Temple Gallery, London, and
as a curator at the Victoria
& Albert museum. He was a
programme director at
Christies Education for 14 years and has led
numerous cultural tours all over Europe and
beyond.
84
Extensions
Tour + Bologna
3 Days & 2 nights from 245
Extension starts on Day 4 of tour
Tour + Ravenna
3 Days & 2 nights from 295
Extension starts on Day 4 of tour
XXXXXXXXXX
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours: A
collection of expert-accompanied tours focusing
on creativity in its many forms. All RA tours
are open to everyone and can be viewed at
coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Flight upgrades
Club Europe from 200 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk.
85
ITALY TOURS
Ravenna:
Mosaics & Marble
Duration 4 Days & 3 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Uncover Ravenna's glittering past with
experts Rowena Loverance or Dr Sally
Dormer. In 401AD, the city became the
capital of the western Roman empire
and mosaic-decorated churches were
built. Ravenna flourished during the
early sixth century under the Ostrogoths,
who commissioned further splendid
monuments. In 540AD it became the
main outpost of the Byzantine empire
in western Europe, experiencing another
lavish period of patronage, and the
Lombards assumed control in 751AD.
Decline was inevitable, but vital in
ensuring the survival of Ravennas
illustrious past.
C&K highlights
See some of the finest remaining
sixth-century mosaics
Visit the Church of San Pietro in Silvis, the
oldest in the Ravenna area
Admire Ravennas exquisite and wellpreserved Byzantine mosaics
See the variety of different marble and
mosaic decoration at the basilica of
San Vitale
Explore the unique mausoleum of
Theodoric the Great, king of the
Ostrogoths
Welcome and farewell group meals
Expert lecturers
Rowena Loverance is a
Byzantine art historian,
specialising in sculpture,
mosaics and icons. She
worked for more than 20
years at the British Museum
and is a visiting research
fellow at Kings College, London.
Dr Sally Dormer is a
freelance art historian and
lecturer. She read history at
the University of Durham,
before gaining an MA in
medieval art and a PhD
at the Courtauld. She is a
course tutor and lecturer at the V&A and
lectures for the Art Fund and Nadfas.
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours: A
collection of expert-accompanied tours focusing
on creativity in its many forms. All RA tours
are open to everyone and can be viewed at
coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Standard tour: This tour is based in 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Extension: Please enquire for prices to extend
your stay in Ravenna or Bologna.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 200 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
86
TOURS ITALY
Umbria:
Soul of the Renaissance
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Travelling in the footsteps of
St Francis and the painters of the early
Renaissance, explore and study the
glowing frescoes of Italys 14th- and
15th-century painters with experts
Lydia Bauman or Dr Nigel Spivey. From
Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti, and
Giottos workshop on the walls of the
Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi, to
Perugino and his brilliant pupil, Raphael,
in Perugia, this tour reveals the soul
of the Renaissance. The period is also
well represented in the outstanding
architecture of cities such as Arezzo,
and the work of the later 15th-century
painters Piero della Francesca, Benozzo
Gozzoli and Pinturicchio in the towns of
San Sepolcro, Montefalco and Spello.
C&K highlights
Stay in Perugia throughout, one of Italys
best-preserved hilltop towns
Comprehensive review of Renaissance art
and architecture from Giotto to Piero della
Francesca
Visit the lesser-known towns of Spello,
Bevagna and Montefalco for significant
frescoes and Roman ruins
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturers
Lydia Bauman is a Polishborn art historian and
professional artist with
an MA in art history from
the Courtauld Institute of
Art. She has a permanent
position as a guide and
lecturer at the National Gallery, has wide
experience of teaching the history of
western art and is the author of The Guide to
Great Themes in Art.
Dr Nigel Spivey is a senior
lecturer in classics at the
University of Cambridge,
teaching Classical art
and archaeology and
its reception in the
Renaissance. He has written
extensively on the history of art; titles
include Greek Art, Enduring Creation and
How Art Made the World (the latter was a
major BBC / PBC television series).
Cathedral, Orvieto
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Standard tour: This tour is based in 3-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Alitalia flight upgrades
Business Class from 395 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
87
ITALY TOURS
Bay of Naples:
Pompeii & Herculaneum
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Uncover the mysteries of the Bay of
Naples, once one of the greatest centres
of classical Roman civilisation, with
experts Dr Steve Kershaw or Stephen
Nelson. The excavated remains of
Pompeii, Boscoreale and Villa Oplontis,
entombed in ash in the Mount
Vesuvius eruption of 79AD, provide
a special glimpse into this lost world.
Herculaneum, covered in mud rather
than ash, is remarkably well preserved,
with multi-storey buildings, frescoes and
mosaics on show. The regions Greek
highlights include Cumae, the Sibyls
Cave and the imposing temples of
Paestum.
C&K highlights
See unrivalled displays of exceptionally
well-preserved Roman archaeology
Visit newly renovated houses at Pompeii
Explore significant Greek settlements at
Paestum & Cumae
Discover less-visited Roman villas in
Boscoreale and Oplontis
Welcome and farewell group meals
Expert lecturers
Dr Steve Kershaw has
taught Classics in a number
of establishments, and now
works for Oxford University
Department for Continuing
Education. He authored and
teaches Oxfords on-line
Greek mythology course and has also spent
time as a guest speaker for Swan Hellenic
Cruises and Royal Hebridean Cruises.
Stephen Nelson has
extensive knowledge of
Italian art history and
contemporary art, and
lectures regularly in Italy
and the UK. He is also an
artist and works in London
and Italy. His practice is sculpture based
and he has shown his work internationally,
in both solo and group exhibitions. Stephen
lives in Basilicata, Italy.
88
Mosaic, Herculaneum
Day 5: Herculaneum
Morning visit to the ruins of Herculaneum,
which are better preserved than those at
Pompeii. Afternoon at leisure. (B)
Day 6: Boscoreale Oplontis
Morning visit to Boscoreale to see a Roman
farming villa, which provides a contrast to the
wealthy villas seen elsewhere on the tour. In the
afternoon, visit the excavated imperial villa at
Oplontis, thought to be the home of Emperor
Neros second wife, Poppaea. (B)
Day 7: Naples Fly to London
Morning visit to the Naples National
Archaeological Museum and its collection of
treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Lunch at a typical Neapolitan pizzeria before
returning to the airport for a flight to London.
(B, L)
Meal basis: As per itinerary B: Breakfast,
L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Extension
Tour + Amalfi Coast
3 Days & 2 Nights from 295
Extension starts on Day 7 of tour
XXXXXXXXXX
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Standard tour: This tour is based in 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 195 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
89
ITALY TOURS
Sicilian Highlights
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Important information
Tuscan Explorer
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Superior
90
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards,
to discuss flight options or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Florence
TOURS ITALY
Matera to Sorrento
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards,
to discuss flight options or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Matera
Category Superior
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
3 nights. (B)
Days 6-7: Menaggio
Full days at leisure to explore Lake Como and
the nearby area. We would suggest a visit
to the town of Bellagio and the magnificent
Villa Carlotta with its museum and botanical
gardens. The town of Como contains a number
of interesting museums and is a short drive from
Menaggio. (B)
Day 8: Milan Fly home
Drive to Milan airport and drop off your hire car.
Fly home. (B)
91
ITALY TOURS
Category Superior
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Cathedral, Lecce
Day 6: Matera
Drive to Matera and stay 2 nights at Relais la
Casa di Lucio (or similar). (B)
Day 7: Matera
Full day at leisure in the ancient city of Matera,
dating back to the Neolithic age. The city
features natural caves transformed into a
labyrinth of houses and Byzantine churches
so that distinguishing between natural rock
formations and manmade architecture is often
impossible. (B)
Day 8: Bari Fly home
Drive to Bari and drop off your hire car. Fly
home. (B)
Category Superior
92
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards,
to discuss flight options or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
The Colosseum, Rome
TOURS ITALY
Category Superior
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards,
to discuss flight options or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Category Superior
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards,
to discuss flight options or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Villa Rufolo, Ravello
93
Flights
Pisa
Flights are from the following airports:
London Gatwick: British Airways, easyJet
London Heathrow: British Airways
London Luton or Bristol: easyJet
Belfast, Leeds Bradford, Manchester or
Newcastle: Jet2
Florence
Flights are from the following airports:
London City: City Jet
London Heathrow: Vueling
Please speak to a tour consultant for
further details and a personalised quote, or
additional hotel options, on 020 7808 6785.
Alternatively, visit our website:
coxandkings.co.uk/short-breaks.
Superior
Weather
Florence
Good Standard
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 9 11 14 18 23 26 30 29 26 20 14 10
B 1 2 4 7 11 14 17
16
14 10 6 2
C 69 67 71 69 67 51 35 60 73 77 114 76
Features:
Features:
San Gimignano
94
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Good Standard
Good Standard
Superior
Features:
Features:
Features:
Good Standard
Good Standard
Good Standard
Features:
Features:
Features:
95
Flights
Venice
Flights are from the following:
London City: British Airways
London Heathrow: British Airways
London Gatwick: British Airways, easyJet,
Monarch
London Luton or London Southend:
easyJet
Birmingham: Monarch
Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford or Newcastle:
Jet2
Manchester: Monarch, Jet2
Rome
Flights are from the following:
London Heathrow: British Airways
London Gatwick: British Airways, easyJet
London Luton: easyJet, Monarch
Birmingham: Monarch
Bristol: easyJet
Belfast, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford,
Manchester or Newcastle: Jet2
Superior
Superior
Weather
Venice
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 6 9 12 17 21 25 28 27 24 18 12 7
B -1 1 4 8 12 16 18 17 14 10 5 0
C 58 57 62 71 71 84 64 83 71 74 90 69
Rome
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 12 13 16 18 23 27 30 30 27 22 17 13
B 3 4 5 8 11 15 17
17
15 11 7 4
C 83 75 68 62 45 37 19 35 75 97 117 98
96
Features:
Features:
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Superior
Good Standard
Superior
Features:
Features:
Features:
Good Standard
Good Standard
Good Standard
Features:
Features:
Features:
97
Flights
Naples
Flights are from the following:
London Gatwick: British Airways
Bristol, Edinburgh, Liverpool, London
Gatwick, London Stansted: easyJet
Manchester or London Luton: Monarch
Sicily
Flights are from the following:
London Gatwick: British Airways,
Norwegian & easyJet to Catania
London Heathrow: Alitalia via Milan or
Rome to Catania
London Gatwick: easyJet to Palermo
Please speak to a tour consultant for
further details and a personalised quote, or
additional hotel options, on 020 7808 6785.
Alternatively, visit our website:
coxandkings.co.uk/short-breaks.
Luxury
Superior
Weather
Sorrento
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 12 12 14 17 21 25 28 28 25 21 16 12
B 5 5 6 9 13 16 18
19
16 13 9 7
C 85 69 64 53 38 23 23 39 57 89 120
102
Palermo
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 13 13 15 18 21 25 28 28 26 22 18 14
B 8 8 9 11 14 18 21 21 19 16 13 10
C 83 67 57 47 22 11 5 17 37 84 82 88
Features:
Features:
98
This is a selection of our recommended hotels. Please see our website for more options.
Good Standard
Superior
Luxury
Features:
Features:
Luxury
Superior
Features:
Good Standard
The Ashbee,
Taormina, Sicily
Features:
Features:
Features:
99
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100
Southern
Europe
Group tours Tailor-made travel
Rail journeys Self-drive
Spain
102
Discover Spain
106 Splendours of Andaluca Group or
private
108 Andaluca: Land of Moors, Knights &
Poets Royal Academy tour
110 The Road to Santiago Group or private
112 Madrid & Toledo: From El Greco to
Picasso Royal Academy tour
113 Barcelona: Gaud and Catalan
Modernism Royal Academy tour
114 Bilbao & San Sebastian: Basque Art &
Architecture Royal Academy tour
116 Discover Spain by Luxury Train Rail
journey
118 Andaluca by Train Private
Andaluca Self-drive Self-drive
119
Highlights of Central Spain Self-drive
Paradors of Southern Spain Self-drive
120
Madrid & Barcelona Short Breaks
121
Cordoba & Granada Short Breaks
Portugal
122 Porto & the Douro Valley Self-drive
Lisbon, Coimbra & Porto Self-drive
123 Lisbon & the Algarve Self-drive
Porto & Lisbon Private
124 Lisbon & Sintra: Portuguese Palaces & Art
Royal Academy tour
Madrid, Spain
Slovenia
Croatia
Spain
126
128
129
Albania
Malta
Portugal
Macedonia
Montenegro
Greece
Albania, Macedonia & Greece
130 Albania: Land of the Eagle
Group or private
132 Albania & Macedonia: Cradle of the
Balkans Royal Academy tour
134
Discover Greece
136
Classical Greece Group or private
138 Greece: The Glory of the Classical World
Royal Academy tour
140 The Wonders of Ancient Crete Group or
private
142 Crete: Minoans, Venetians & Ottomans
Royal Academy tour
144
Mykonos & Santorini Private
Mykonos, Paros & Santorini Private
145
Mykonos, Santorini & Crete Private
The Dodecanese Private
146
148
150
151
Malta
Discover Malta
Malta & Gozo: Temples, Knights &
Caravaggio Royal Academy tour
Splendours of Malta Private
Malta & Gozo Private
Malta Short Breaks
Athens, Greece
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 10 12 15 18 22 28 32 32 27 20 14 10
A 12 13 15 19 24 29 32 31 28 22 18 14
B 1 2 4 6 9 14 17
16
14 9 4 2
B 5 6 7 10 14 19 21 21 18 14 10 7
C 45 44 36 45 42 28 11 12 27 48 55 47
C 63 54 50 31 23 12 6 6 13 55 64 80
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations,
places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our southern Europe experts.
t
info@coxandkings.co.uk
coxandkings.co.uk
101
SPAIN
Discover
Spain
Madrid
The Museo del Prado art gallery Impressive royal palace
Madrid has a relatively short history compared to other European
capitals, but is one of the most culturally rich on the continent, with
internationally renowned art galleries and museums, a royal palace
and an interesting contrast of old and new styles. The city is split into
two main areas: old Madrid, largely dominated by the royal palace, an
impressive structure used by the royal family until 1931; and Bourbon
Madrid, also known as Prado, located on the eastern side of the city and
host to the Museo del Prado, one of the worlds greatest art galleries.
With attractions spreading into the surrounding areas, Madrid is a great
starting point for a longer itinerary.
102
SPAIN
Galicia
Situated at the foot of the western Pyrenees, the Basque country was
once a powerful medieval kingdom. As a coastal region, deep sea fishing
remains an important industry in the area and plays a large part in the
local cuisine. Places of interest include the capital Pamplona, home to
the bull-running fiesta that takes place each year. Bilbao, the largest
Basque city and the leading commercial port in Spain, offers a range
of cultural and historical sights, the Guggenheim Museum being the
principal attraction with a collection of modern and contemporary art.
Away from the hilly interior is the coastal town of Vigo, the largest
town in Galicia and the most important fishing port in the country.
The city offers a mix of history, beaches and a taste of modern
cosmopolitan life.
East of the Spanish mainland lie the Balearic islands. Each island has
its own distinct features and they all have a notably different character
from mainland Spain. The principal islands are Ibiza, Formentera,
Mallorca and Menorca. In spite of their reputation as party islands,
there are in fact many interesting towns and idyllic landscapes and
beaches waiting to be discovered if you move away from the main
tourist areas.
Also on the east coast of Spain, Valencia is an equally vibrant city with
exuberant fiestas and several beaches to bask on. The three finest
buildings in the city, the Palau de la Generalitat, the gothic hall of La Lonja
and the cathedral, were all built during the city's heyday in the 14th and
15th centuries. Complementing these are the strikingly modern City of
Arts and Sciences and the concert and exhibition hall, Palau de la Musica.
Ibiza is known for its old towns and sandy coves and Formentera for
its sedate white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Mallorca,
the largest of the islands, has mountainous landscapes, charming
villages and some beautiful beaches while Menorca offers prehistoric
monuments and some idyllic stretches of coastline for those willing to
get off the beaten track.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
103
SPAIN
Andaluca
Granada
Cordoba
104
SPAIN
Ronda
Seville
A suggested itinerary...
Tailored travel
105
SPAIN TOURS
Splendours
of Andaluca
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Andaluca is one of Spains most scenic
regions, strewn with superb HispanoMoorish architecture. As well as
including two of Spains greatest sites
the Alhambra in Granada and the
Mezquita in Cordoba this tour explores
some of Andalucas prettiest countryside
and towns.
C&K highlights
Centrally located 4-star hotels in Cordoba,
Seville and Granada
Tours of Sevilles Alczar, the Alhambra in
Granada, and the Mezquita in Cordoba
Visit Sevilles cathedral, the largest in
Europe and burial place of Christopher
Columbus
British Airways flights
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Cordoba
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 14 16 19 21 26 31 36 35 31 24 18 14
B 4 5 6 8 11 15 18
18
16 11 7 4
C 68 68 62 54 36 21 4 5 23 62 82 79
Area Map
106
XXXXXXXXXX
Extension
Tour + Malaga
3 Days & 2 Nights from 135
Stay an additional 2 nights in Malaga at the
Silken Puerta Malaga and explore the historic
centre of this coastal resort at a leisurely pace,
or just relax. Return transfer to Malaga airport is
included.
Important information
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 5 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Out (Fri)
Rtn (Fri)
26 May 17 02 Jun 17
09 Jun 17 16 Jun 17
Out (Fri)
Rtn (Fri)
01 Sep 17 08 Sep 17
15 Sep 17 22 Sep 17
Out (Fri)
Rtn (Fri)
29 Sep 17 06 Oct 17
13 Oct 17 20 Oct 17
107
SPAIN TOURS
C&K highlights
Unique fusion of Islamic and Renaissance
history and architecture
Lunch at Parador de Carmona, once a
14th-century Moorish fortress
Explore the Alhambra and its gardens
Visits to splendid royal palaces and
enchanting private mansions
Welcome and farewell group meals
Expert lecturer
Dr George Manginis'
excavation record
encompasses diverse
areas of Mediterranean
archaeology, from the
Neolithic to Late Islamic.
He has lectured on
Byzantine, Islamic and Chinese art at
Soas, the University of Edinburgh, the V&A
and other educational institutions. He
has published two books: Mount Sinai: A
History of Travellers and Pilgrims and China
Rediscovered: The Benaki Collection of
Chinese Ceramics.
Area Map
108
XXXXXXXXXX
Extension
Tour + Seville
3 Days & 2 Nights from 195
Extension starts on Day 7 of tour
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Superior tour: Based in 4- and 5-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 250 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
109
SPAIN TOURS
The Road
to Santiago
Duration 9 Days & 8 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Follow the Way of St James, the
pilgrimage route to the cathedral of
Santiago de Compostela, where the
remains of Saint James the Apostle,
the patron saint of Spain, are said to be
buried. This tour starts in the Basque
Country and continues through the
regions of Castile and Leon before
finishing in Galicia, stopping to visit
the various architectural highlights and
museums en route. There is also a brief
detour into the celebrated wine region of
La Rioja, with a chance to sample some
of the produce.
C&K highlights
Centrally located 4- and 5-star hotels in
Bilbao, Burgos, Leon and Santiago
Entrances to the cathedrals in Burgos,
Valladolid, Leon and Santiago de
Compostela
Visit to the Guggenheim museum
Wine tasting in the prestigious wine
region of Rioja
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Santiago de Compostela
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 12 12 14 16 18 21 24 24 22 18 15 12
B 5 5 6 7 9 12 13
14
13 10 7 6
C 242 228 162 134 127 71 33 40 105 175 183 230
Area Map
110
XXXXXXXXXX
Important information
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a local tour manager from arrival
in Bilbao.
Superior tour: Based in 4- and 5-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can
be taken privately on a date that suits you, for
which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively,
it can be tailored to your exact requirements.
Please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Group tour
Low season from 1,545
Guide price months: Jun
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 10 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Rtn (Sat)
27 May 17
17 Jun 17
Out (Fri)
01 Sep 17
22 Sep 17
Rtn (Sat)
09 Sep 17
30 Sep 17
Out (Fri)
13 Oct 17
Rtn (Sat)
21 Oct 17
111
SPAIN TOURS
Tour overview
Visit Madrid and its Golden Triangle
of Art with expert art historians Dr
Richard Stemp or Gayna Pelham. Tour
the world-renowned Museo del Prado,
an extraordinary gallery with unrivalled
collections by masters such as Goya,
Velzquez, El Greco, Rubens, Titian and
Bosch. Nearby is the Thyssen-Bornemisza
Museum, with more than 1,000 pieces of
art spanning eight centuries. The Reina
Sofia Museum, where Picassos Guernica
hangs, completes the Golden Triangle
and features an extraordinary array of
predominantly 20th-century Spanish
art. You will also visit the fortress city of
Toledo with an in-depth look at one of
Spains greatest artists, El Greco, who
spent much of his life there.
C&K highlights
Spend a full day in the Museo del Prado,
one of the worlds best art museums
Visit the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum's
extensive collection of European art
V
iew modern Spanish works at the Reina
Sofia Museum
Tours in Toledo to discover the life and
work of legendary painter, El Greco
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturers
Dr Richard Stemp studied
natural sciences and history
of art at Cambridge, where
he also completed a PhD on
sculpture in Ferrara in the
15th century. He works as
an independent art
historian, teaching at the National Gallery,
Tate and Wallace Collection, as well as onsite across Europe.
Gayna Pelham is an
artist and lecturer based in
London. She studied Fine
Art at Middlesex University
and since then has exhibited
in many group and solo
shows. Gayna lectures at the
National Gallery, Portrait Gallery, Courtauld
Institute and Wallace Collection, as well
as for a variation of private and corporate
groups of all ages.
112
Extension
Tour + Madrid
3 Days & 2 Nights from 195
Extension starts on Day 5 of tour
Prado Museum, Madrid
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Standard tour: Based in 3- and 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Air Europa flight upgrades
Premium Economy from 145 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
TOURS SPAIN
Barcelona:
Gaud & Catalan Modernism
Duration 5 Days & 4 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
This in-depth tour concentrates on
the history, technical innovations
and influence of the movement of
Catalan modernism and its figurehead
Antoni Gaud. Travel across the vibrant
city of Barcelona with experts Dr
Anne Anderson and Monica BohmDuchen, seeing how Gaud and his
contemporaries shaped its landscape,
noticing in particular their extraordinary
contrast in styles. Gaud rarely drew
detailed plans for his works, preferring
to create them as three-dimensional
scale models, which he modified as he
went along. This extraordinary approach
resulted in works that anticipated and
influenced modern construction methods
and uniquely captured the artistic and
cultural sentiments of his time.
C&K highlights
Follow the Modernism Route, viewing
Gauds most inspirational works
Visit Barcelonas magnificent concert hall,
the Palau de la Msica Catalana
Explore modernism at the National
Museum of Catalan Art
See Catalan gothic architecture at the
Monastery of Pedralbes
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturers
Dr Anne Anderson is an
art historian, archaeologist
and research fellow at
the University of Exeter,
a lecturer with Nadfas, a
broadcaster and writer.
Her specialisms include the
aesthetic movement, arts and crafts, art
nouveau, art deco and modernism. She has
curated two national exhibitions.
Monica Bohm-Duchen is
an independent lecturer,
writer and curator. Based
in London, the institutions
she has worked for include
the Courtauld Institute,
Sothebys Institute of
Art, Tate, the National Gallery, the Royal
Academy of Arts and Birkbeck College. Her
latest book, Art and the Second World War,
was published in 2013.
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours: A
collection of expert-accompanied tours focusing
on creativity in its many forms. All RA tours
are open to everyone and can be viewed at
coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Standard tour: Based in 3- and 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Itinerary: The order of the itinerary may
change due to opening times.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 195 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
113
SPAIN TOURS
C&K highlights
Explore the culture and history of the
Basque region
See exceptional works at Bilbaos Museum
of Fine Arts
Experience unrivalled contemporary art at
the Guggenheim Museum
Visit the outstanding collection at Museo
San Telmo in San Sebastian
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Day 2: Bilbao
This morning walk to the Museum of Fine Arts,
with its comprehensive collection of Basque,
Spanish and European art from the middle
ages to the 20th century. Afternoon tour of
the Guggenheim Museum. This spectacular
post-modern building designed by Frank Gehry
contains permanent and visiting exhibits of
modern and contemporary works by Spanish
and international artists. (B)
Expert lecturer
Thomas Abbott, a
Berlin-based specialist
in architectural history
from the baroque to the
20th century, graduated
in psychology and art
history at Carleton College,
Minnesota, completed his graduate studies
in the history of art and architecture at the
Technical University of Berlin, and has also
studied at the Louvre School of Art History
in Paris. He has conducted many acclaimed
cultural and art tours throughout Europe.
Dr Anne Anderson is an
art historian, archaeologist
and research fellow at
the University of Exeter,
a lecturer with Nadfas, a
broadcaster and writer.
Her specialisms include the
aesthetic movement, arts and crafts, art
nouveau, art deco and modernism. She has
curated two national exhibitions.
114
XXXXXXXXXX
San Sebastian
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours: A
collection of expert-accompanied tours focusing
on creativity in its many forms. All RA tours
are open to everyone and can be viewed at
coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Standard tour: This tour is based in 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 595 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
115
SPAIN TOURS
Discover Spain
by Luxury Train
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Travel in style through the north-western
regions of Spain aboard El Transcantabrico
Clasico. This train transports its passengers
back to the golden age of rail travel while
also featuring all the comforts that you
might expect of a modern-day train. Travel
from Santander on the Bay of Biscay
along the Cantabrian coast, then through
Asturias, finishing in the verdant region
of Galicia. Apart from the magnificent
scenery, enjoy sumptuous cuisine and
excursion to discover the fascinating art
and culture of lesser visited towns and
villages en route.
El Transcantabrico Clasico
El Transcantabrico Clasico:
Santander to Santiago de Compostela
C&K highlights
Important information
Weather
Santander
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 12 13 14 17 18 20 23 23 22 19 15 13
B 6 6 7 8 10 13 15
16
14 12 8 7
C 120 95 98 115 88 62 49 79 86 119
154
133
Area Map
116
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El Transcantabrico Clasico
Al Andalus
117
SPAIN TOURS
Andaluca by Train
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Important information
Andaluca Self-drive
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Superior
118
Important information
TOURS SPAIN
Category Standard
Important information
Standard tour: Based in 3- and 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards or
flight options, or to tailor this itinerary, please call
020 7808 6785 or email info@coxandkings.co.uk.
La Granja, Segovia
nights. (B)
Day 4: Toledo
Full day at leisure. Known as the city of three
cultures because Christians, Arabs and Jews
lived here in harmony for centuries, behind its
walls Toledo preserves an artistic and cultural
legacy in the form of churches, palaces,
fortresses, mosques and synagogues. (B)
Day 5: Madrid Fly home
Drive to Madrid airport and drop off your hire
car. Fly home. (B)
Category Superior
Important information
Superior tour: Based in 4- and 5-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based on
alternative accommodation standards or flight
options, or to tailor this itinerary, please call
020 7808 6785 or email info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Roman theatre, Merida
Day 7: Carmona
Day at leisure to explore this picturesque city or
alternatively visit Seville. (B)
Day 8: Zafra Merida
Morning drive to Merida, via the town of Zafra.
Afternoon at leisure to explore Merida, with its
Alcazar, Roman theatre and Temple of Diana.
Stay overnight at the Parador de Merida. (B)
Day 9: Madrid Fly home
Drive to Madrid airport and drop off your hire
car. Fly home. (B)
119
Superior
Superior
Flights
Madrid
Flights are from the following:
London Heathrow: British Airways, Iberia
London City: British Airways
Manchester, London Luton, Liverpool,
London Gatwick, Bristol or Edinburgh:
easyJet
Barcelona
Flights are from the following:
London Heathrow: British Airways
London Gatwick: British Airways,
Norwegian, Vueling, easyJet, Monarch
Birmingham or Leeds Bradford: Monarch
Belfast, Southend, Bristol, Liverpool,
Luton or Newcastle: easyJet
Manchester or Glasgow: Jet2
Leeds Bradford: Jet2, Monarch
Edinburgh: Vueling
Please speak to a tour consultant for
further details and a personalised quote, or
additional hotel options, on 020 7808 6785.
Features:
Features:
Superior
Superior
Weather
Madrid
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 10 12 15 18 22 28 32 32 27 20 14 10
B 1 2 4 6 9 14 17
16
14 9 4 2
C 45 44 36 45 42 28 11 12 27 48 55 47
Barcelona
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 13 14 15 17 20 24 27 27 25 21 17 14
B 6 6 7 9 12 16 19 19 17 13 9 6
C 42 36 47 50 52 38 23 53 73 86 58 50
120
Features:
Features:
Luxury
Superior
Flights
Flights are from the following:
Cordoba
Please refer to page 120 for flights to
Madrid. From Madrid you will pick up your
car hire and drive to Cordoba.
Granada
Jet2, Monarch and easyJet fly from several
airports around the UK to Malaga, which is
within easy reach of Granada.
Please speak to a Cox & Kings tour
consultant to discuss your best options, for
a personalised quote, or additional hotel
options, on 020 7808 6785.
Alternatively, visit our website:
coxandkings.co.uk/short-breaks.
Weather
NH Amistad, Cordoba
Features:
Features:
Luxury
Superior
Cordoba
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 31 30 27 25 22 18 18 21 23 26 28 30
B 18 17 15 12 9 5 5 6 9 12 15 17
C 116
101
101 48 21 11 11 12 31 67 97 128
Granada
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 11 12 15 17 22 27 32 32 28 21 15 11
B 1 2 4 6 9 13 16
16
14 9 5 2
C 53 55 47 52 37 26 10 7 20 51 64 61
Features:
Features:
121
PORTUGAL TOURS
Important information
Category Superior
Day 1: Lisbon
Fly from London to Lisbon. Transfer to the Tivoli
Jardim for 2 nights. (N)
Day 2: Lisbon
Full day at leisure to explore Portugal's capital. (B)
Day 3: Coimbra
Collect your hire car (based on group B car
rental) and self-drive to Coimbra. Stay for
2 nights at the Quinta Das Lagrimas (B)
Day 4: Coimbra
Full day at leisure. Formerly the capital of
Portugal, Coimbra has many exceptional
buildings including its magnificent romanesque
cathedral. (B)
Day 5: Porto
Morning self-drive to Porto. Stay for 2 nights at
the Eurostars Des Artes hotel. (B)
Day 6: Porto
Full day at leisure to view the Unesco
world heritage sites of Portugals second
city. (B)
122
Important information
TOURS PORTUGAL
Category Superior
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards,
to discuss flight options or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Category Superior
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
123
PORTUGAL TOURS
C&K highlights
Discover unique Manueline architecture
Tour three dazzling royal palaces in Sintra
Visit the National Museum of Ancient
Art, Berardo Museum and Gulbenkian
Museum
Follow the history of Portuguese ceramics
at the National Tile Museum
Welcome and farewell group meals
Day 3: Lisbon
This morning visit the National Museum of
Ancient Art. Housed in a former palace of the
Count of Alvor, the museum contains works
from the middle ages to the early 19th century,
showing the history of Portuguese painting,
sculpture and metalwork. Continue to the area
of Belem at the mouth of the River Tagus. The
Monastery of San Jeronimos is one of the most
prominent examples of the Portuguese late
gothic Manueline style. In the afternoon, visit
the nearby Berardo Museum with its collection
of modern and contemporary art. Proceed
to the Monument of the Navigators, which
celebrates the Portuguese age of exploration
during the 15th and 16th centuries, and Belem
Tower, once part of the citys defence system
and another example of Manueline style. (B)
Day 4: Fly to London
Morning tour of the Gulbenkian Museum,
which exhibits an outstanding collection of
fine and decorative arts. After a farewell lunch,
Expert lecturer
Dr Anne Anderson is an
art historian, archaeologist
and research fellow at
the University of Exeter,
a lecturer with Nadfas, a
broadcaster and writer.
Her specialisms include the
aesthetic movement, arts and crafts, art
nouveau, art deco and modernism. She has
curated two national exhibitions.
Area Map
124
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Extension
Tour + Lisbon
3 Days & 2 Nights from 195
Extension starts on Day 4 of tour
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms.
All RA tours are open to everyone and can be
viewed at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture,
as well as an experienced local guide.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
125
CROATIA
Discover
Croatia
Dubrovnik
Well-preserved walled city Stunning setting on the
Dalmatian coastline
Dubrovnik, described by Byron as the Pearl of the Adriatic, is a stunning
city with a unique political history, world-famous cultural heritage and
architectural beauty. Founded 1,300 years ago, Dubrovniks appeal
lies in the old town of Stari Grad, with its marble-paved squares, steep
cobbled streets, tall houses, convents, churches, palaces, fountains and
museums, all cut from the same light-coloured stone. The intact city
walls keep motorists at bay, and the town has an agreeable climate and
lush vegetation, due to its location at the southern end of the countrys
Adriatic coast. There are not many choices for guests looking to stay
within the city walls, with most accommodation located a short walk
from the entrances to the old quarter.
Split
Split
Croatias real charm lies in its 1,778km of coastline and 1,185 islands that
sit just off the mainland. Studding the Adriatic, they vary from tiny, verdant
and unpopulated isles to large, arid outposts supporting ancient towns
and villages. There is something for everyone here wander the medieval
streets of Korcula town and admire the 13th-century city walls, walk
through the green forests of Mljet, relax in a harbour-side restaurant serving
freshly caught fish or stop for a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic.
Hvar island, sometimes referred to as the Croatian Madeira, receives more
sunshine than anywhere else in the country. The traffic-free streets and
beautifully ornamented buildings of Hvar Town are reminiscent of Venice,
and the island is known for its many fields of lavender and wine estates.
126
CROATIA
Istria
Attractive coastline & beaches Roman amphitheatre
in Pula
Istria is a large triangular peninsula stretching out into the Adriatic and
bordered by Slovenia. Once part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, it was
amalgamated into Mussolinis Italy in 1918 before its succession to
the fledgling Yugoslav Republic in 1945. As a result of its cosmopolitan
history and stunning coastline dotted with picturesque villages, the
area has always been popular with holiday makers. Pula is the principal
town on the peninsula with a pretty seafront location and a long history
dating back to Roman times. The remarkably well-preserved Roman
amphitheatre dominates the centre.
Art pavilion, Zagreb
Central Region
Zagreb & its museums Lonjsko Polje Nature Park
The area of central Croatia consists of a series of lowlands in the north,
giving way to the hilly area between Samobor and Karlovac, renowned
for its wine production. There are also a series of wetlands protected as
part of the Lonjsko Polje Nature Park. The national capital, Zagreb, is
located on the southern slopes of Mount Medvednica, overlooking the
Sava river to the north. A thriving city with an impressive collection of
museums and galleries, Zagrebs history stretches back to the
11th century when it began to develop from the twin villages of Kaptol
and Gradec. This is the least visited part of Croatia as it suffered the
most during the recent war. However, today it rewards visitors with a
myriad of ancient castles, churches, museums, nature parks and pretty
town centres featuring baroque architecture, all waiting to be explored.
Cravats
Like most mens fashion between the 17th century and the first
world war, the cravat has military origins. This style of necktie dates
back to the 17th century when Croatian mercenaries, known as the
Croats, wore their distinctive knotted neckwear when fighting for
the French in the Thirty Years War. The traditional Croat military
scarves ranged from coarse cloth for enlisted soldiers to fine linens
and silks for the officers. This piece of clothing became fashionable
and was soon worn by other militaries. Over the centuries it evolved
to become known as the tie.
Roman amphitheatre, Pula
A suggested itinerary...
Croatia Sailing
Tailored travel
127
Superior
Superior
Flights
Dubrovnik
Flights are from the following:
London Gatwick: British Airways, Monarch
Belfast or Leeds Bradford: Jet2
Liverpool or London Stansted: easyJet
Birmingham: Monarch
Manchester: Monarch, Jet2
Split
Flights are from the following:
London Gatwick, London Stansted or
Bristol: easyJet
Manchester: Jet2
Birmingham: Monarch
Please speak to a tour consultant for
further details and a personalised quote, or
additional hotel options, on 020 7808 6785.
Alternatively, visit our website:
coxandkings.co.uk/short-breaks.
Features:
Features:
Superior
Good Standard
Weather
Dubrovnik
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 7 9 12 16 21 24 28 28 24 19 13 8
B 0 1 3 7 11
14 16
16
13 9 5 1
C 141 128 116 108 84 71 51 62 93 129 175 167
Split
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 8 10 12 16 21 25 28 28 25 19 14 10
B 1 2 4 8 12 15 17 17 14 10 6 2
C 95 86 89 82 69 74 46 64 75 102
134
127
Features:
Features:
128
SLOVENIA
Discover
Slovenia
The independent republic of Slovenia is situated at the northern
end of the Adriatic Sea and has borders with Italy, Austria, Hungary
and Croatia. Despite its small size, Slovenia offers an abundance
of natural and historical attractions, from beaches basking in the
Adriatic sunshine, to the snow-capped mountains of the Julian Alps
with their green foothills swathed in grapevines and scattered with
gothic churches, baroque palaces and historic castles.
Tour the historic capital city of Ljubljana before travelling north to
the karstic lakes around Bled and Bohinj with their emerald-green
colouring. After viewing the mighty Triglav, the highest peak in
the Julian Alps, return south via the extensive underground cave
systems of Postojna and kocjan and end your journey in the
Venetian town of Piran on the Slovenian riviera.
A suggested itinerary...
Taste of Slovenia
Tailored travel
129
Albania:
Land of the Eagle
Duration 9 Days & 8 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
Known as the Cradle of the Balkans,
Albania and Macedonia are home to
a wealth of natural and historic sites,
from Lake Ohrid and the well-preserved
Ottoman town of Gjirokastr to the
important but lesser-known Roman
ruins at Butrint and Apollonia. Travelling
through spectacular mountain and
coastal scenery, explore these two
countries that are emerging after years
of relative isolation.
C&K highlights
Explore the architectural legacies of the
Ottoman empire and Communist era
Tour the well-preserved Roman sites of
Butrint and Apollonia
Stay one night on Lake Ohrid, Macedonia
Visit four Unesco world heritage sites
View the worlds largest icon museums in
Ohrid and Korca
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Tirana
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 11 12 15 18 23 27 30 30 27 21 16 12
B 2 2 4 8 12 12 17
17
14 10 6 3
C 127 115 109 97 82 59 37 47 78 108 160 143
Area Map
130
Day 7: Vlora
Travel to Vlora, a seaport and the gateway to
Italy. En route, visit the Ali Pasha castle at Porto
Palermo. Stay overnight at the Hotel Vlora
International / Partner Hotel. (B)
Day 8: Apollonia Berat
Morning tour of the Greek and Roman ruins
at Apollonia, an important trading port for the
Roman empire until the third century AD. Drive
to Berat and visit the Onufri Museum of Icons,
the King's Mosque and the castle, which has
the remains of 42 churches within its walls. Stay
overnight at the Mangalemi Hotel (or similar). (B)
Day 9: Durrs Tirana Fly to London
Morning drive to Durrs, where you will explore
the largest amphitheatre in the Balkans and the
accompanying Archaeological Museum. Continue
to Tirana to tour the Bektashi World Centre and
the art gallery in the prime ministers office.
Remainder of the day is at leisure. Transfer to the
airport and fly to London. (B)
Meal basis: As per itinerary B: Breakfast,
L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Extension
Tour + Montenegro
3 Days & 2 Nights from 425
Situated between Croatia and Albania,
Montenegro is home to some of the Adriatics
most picturesque scenery, with coastal fjords
and walled medieval towns. Stay 2 nights in the
coastal resort of Budva and take an optional
visit to the Unesco-protected town of Kotor.
Day 9: Budva
Travel from Durrs to Budva in Montenegro
and stay 2 nights at the Grand Avala Hotel (or
similar). (B)
XXXXXXXXXX
Important information
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a local tour manager from arrival
in Tirana.
Standard tour: This tour is based in 3- and
4-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary
can be taken privately on a date that suits
you, for which guideline prices are shown.
Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact
requirements. Please call 020 7808 6785 or
email info@coxandkings.co.uk.
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 10 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 430 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Rtn (Sat)
22 Apr 17
13 May 17
Out (Fri)
09 Jun 17
15 Sep 17
Rtn (Sat)
17 Jun 17
23 Sep 17
Out (Fri)
06 Oct 17
Rtn (Sat)
14 Oct 17
131
Tour overview
Travel to Albania and Macedonia with
expert Dr William Taylor to discover
a rich variety of archaeological and
historical sites, along with spectacular
mountain scenery. This tour explores
the wonderful Ottoman museum cities
of Berat and Gjirokaster, the impressive
Roman ruins at Butrint and Apollonia,
historic mosques, as well as Byzantine
and Orthodox churches. Access to sites
not normally open to the general public
and meetings with senior clerics will also
be arranged.
C&K highlights
Special access to the Kings Mosque and
Halveti Tekke in Berat
Explore the Unesco world heritage sites of
Butrint and Lake Ohrid
Admire Byzantine and Orthodox churches,
superb Ottoman architecture and
spectacular mountain scenery
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Holy Trinity Church, Berat, Albania
Expert lecturer
Dr William Taylor is an
Anglican priest, chairman
of the Anglican and Eastern
Churches Association, a
writer, and broadcaster on
the Islamic world and the
Orthodox churches. He has
worked and lived in Jordan, Cairo and Turkey,
and travelled and lectured in the Middle East
and Central Asia.
Area Map
132
Day 4: Gjirokaster
Drive to Gjirokaster, stopping en route at St
Nicholas monastery and the church of Labova,
one of Albanias oldest and best-preserved
Orthodox churches, dating from the sixth
century. In Gjirokaster see the birthplace of
Enver Hoxha and Zekate House, an example of
Ottoman-style architecture. Stay at the Cajupi
Hotel (or similar) for 1 night. (B)
Day 5: Korca
In the morning, travel through mountainous
landscapes to Korca, historically an important
trade town. Continue to the Mirahori mosque,
one of the oldest mosques in Albania. Stay at
the Regency Hotel (or similar) for 1 night. (B)
Day 6: Lake Ohrid
Visit the Museum of Medieval Arts, which
displays more than 150 icons, then drive to
Voskopoj, stopping en route to see the Shen
Kolli (St Nicholas) church, which contains some
of the best preserved 18th-century ecclesiastical
art in the Balkans. Drive to Ohrid in Macedonia,
via the monastery of St Naum. Its position on
a rocky overhang provides excellent views over
Lake Ohrid and Ohrid itself, listed by Unesco as
natural and cultural world heritage sites. Stay at
the Hotel Royal View (or similar) for 2 nights. (B)
Day 7: Ohrid
Morning tour of the town known as the
XXXXXXXXXX
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 430 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
133
GREECE
Discover
Greece
Theatre of Epidaurus
The Peloponnese
Ruins of Epidaurus Archaeological site of Mycenae
Olympia, site of the first Olympic Games
The Peloponnese is a peninsula in the very south of Greece. Today, it is
in fact an island since the construction of the Corinth Canal in 1893.
Here you can visit the ruins of Epidaurus, a celebrated healing centre
in the classical world and also renowned for its theatre, which has
exceptional acoustics. There is also the archaeological site of Mycenae,
with its beehive tombs and ruins of the palace of King Agamemnon.
On the western coast is the site of Olympia, a sacred place dedicated
to the god Zeus. The Olympic Games originated here in honour of Zeus
and a gigantic statue of him was also built here, once one of the Seven
Wonders of the Ancient World. Other historical attractions to explore
include Argos, Tiryns and the ruins of the city of Corinth, where St Paul
the Apostle lived.
Sterea Ellas
Delphi & the Temple of Apollo Battle sites
The principal attraction of Sterea Ellas, the central region of Greece,
is the site of Delphi. Located on the slopes of Mount Parnasus, Delphi
was visited for over 2,000 years for the worship of the god Apollo.
Mount Parnassus itself is also a popular winter sports location. A further
attraction in the region is Thebes, which was a thriving Greek city until its
destruction by Philip II of Macedonia.
There are several key battle sites within the region: the battle of
Thermopylae in 480BC against the second Persian invasion took
place close to the city of Lamia in the south of the region, while the
picturesque town of Nafpaktos was the scene of the naval battle of
Lepanto in 1571 between the Ottoman empire and the Holy League.
Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, Delphi
134
GREECE
Ruins at Pella
Thessaly
Not to be confused with the country bearing the same name, the
regions of Macedonia and Thrace are located in the far north of Greece.
Visitors to the area should explore the ruins of Pella, located close to the
city of Veria and once the royal capital of Macedonia. Stop off in the
town of Vergina to see the Tombs of the Royal Kings, including the tomb
of Philip II, Alexander the Greats father, and the ruins of the theatre
that was the scene of his assassination.
The Meteora (meaning suspended in the air) are the principal cultural
attraction in this region. These are a series of monasteries perched high
on rocky outcrops. Built in the 14th to 16th centuries as refuges against
invaders, the churches contain Byzantine frescoes. The monasteries
are still in use today and visiting them depends on religious days. We
recommend the monasteries of Valaam, St Stephen and Megalo Meteoro
as three of the best to visit. The town of Kalambaka lies at the foot of
these rocks and is an excellent point from which to explore the area.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
135
GREECE TOURS
Classical
Greece
Duration 7 Days & 6 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Considered the birthplace of western
civilisation, Greeces influence still
resonates today in the fields of
architecture, science, engineering and
philosophy. Incorporating the classical
sites of Olympia, Delphi, Mycenae
and Epidaurus, this tour also explores
Greeces magnificent scenery and the
man-made marvels of the Corinth Canal.
C&K highlights
Stay in 4- and 5-star characterful hotels
Comprehensive programme of tours to
classical sites, including Delphi, Mycenae
and Olympia
Included visits to the Unesco site of Tiryns
and Corinth
Listen to the magnificent acoustics of the
Epidaurus theatre
Entrance fees included
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Athens
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 12 13 15 19 24 29 32 31 28 22 18 14
B 5 6 7 10 14 19 21 21 18 14 10 7
C 63 54 50 31 23 12 6 6 13 55 64 80
Area Map
136
Extensions
Pre- and post-tour extensions are available in
Athens and include 2 nights accommodation
with arrival or departure transfers.
XXXXXXXXXX
Tour + Hydra
4 Days & 3 Nights from 435
Extension starts on Day 7 of tour
Important information
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a local tour manager from arrival
in Athens.
Superior tour: Based in 4- and 5-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can
be taken privately on a date that suits you, for
which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively,
it can be tailored to your exact requirements.
Please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Group tour
Low season from 1,255
Guide price months: Oct
Private travel
Low season from 2,240
Guide price months: Apr
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 10 Jan)
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Aegean Airlines flight upgrades
Business Class: Please speak to your consultant
for prices
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Rtn (Fri)
11 May 17
08 Jun 17
Out (Fri)
08 Sep 17
29 Sep 17
Rtn (Fri)
14 Sep 17
05 Oct 17
Out (Fri)
13 Oct 17
Rtn (Fri)
19 Oct 17
137
GREECE TOURS
Tour overview
Travel through classical Greece with
experts Dr Steve Kershaw or Dr
Konstantine Politis. This tour focuses
on the classical Greek highlights found
in the mainland, including Delphi, once
home to the renowned oracle; the
fortified palace complex of Mycenae;
and the ancient archaeological site of
Olympia.
C&K highlights
Meet the director of the new
Archaeological Museum of Thebes
Seven Unesco world heritage sites
Ancient, classical and Hellenistic Greek sites
Welcome and farewell group dinners
The Acropolis, Athens
Expert lecturers
Dr Steve Kershaw has
taught Classics in a number
of establishments, and now
works for Oxford University
Department for Continuing
Education. He authored and
teaches Oxfords on-line
Greek mythology course and has also spent
time as a guest speaker for Swan Hellenic
Cruises and Royal Hebridean Cruises.
Dr Konstantine Politis
is a Greek archaeologist
and well-published scholar
specialising in the early
Byzantine-Christian and
early Islamic periods.
Educated in Greece, the
United States, Belgium and Britain, he has
worked extensively for the British Museum,
the antiquities ministries of Jordan,
Syria, and Oman, and recently at Athens
University.
Area Map
138
XXXXXXXXXX
Extensions
Tour + Athens
Tour + Hydra
3 Days & 2 Nights from 395
Important information
Tour + Thessaloniki
3 Days & 2 Nights from 1,195
This extension travels to Macedonian Greece
and visits two of the best archaeological sites in
the country: the imperial palace of Vergina and
the archaeological site of Philippi.
Day 10: Virgina Thessaloniki
Drive north to visit Vergina, the imperial
residence of the Macedonian kings. Continue
to Thessaloniki and stay 2 nights at the Holiday
Inn (or similar). (B)
Day 11: Philippi Kavala
Full-day tour of Philippi and Kavala viewing the
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 295 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
139
GREECE TOURS
The Wonders of
Ancient Crete
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
The largest and most populous of
the Greek islands, Crete was home
to the Minoans, who established one
of Europes earliest civilisations. As
a strategic gateway to the eastern
Mediterranean, the island has been
ruled by all the main regional powers,
including the Byzantine, Roman and
Ottoman empires. This tour explores
Cretes magnificent scenic and cultural
highlights, including the Palace of
Knossos, said to be the site of the
mythical Minotaurs labyrinth and an
incomparable monument of ancient
Minoan society.
C&K highlights
Stay in a 5-star hotel in the heart of
Heraklion
Visits to the archaeological sites of
Eleftherna and Knossos
Boat trip to the isle of Spinalonga
Visit the Roman town of Gortys and the
Minoan palace of Phaestos on the south
coast
Small group size maximum 26 people
Weather
Heraklion
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 14 14 15 19 23 27 28 28 25 22 19 15
B 7 8 8 11 14 18 20 20 18 15 12 9
C 153 118 90 38 20 8 3 1 23 95 83 122
Area Map
Knossos Palace
140
Extensions
Tour + Santorini
4 Days & 3 Nights from 700
Extension starts on Day 8 of tour
XXXXXXXXXX
Chania
Tour + Mykonos
4 Days & 3 Nights from 600
Extension starts on Day 8 of tour
Group tour
Low season from 1,195
Guide price months: Oct
Private travel
Low season from 3,080
Guide price months: Oct
The guideline high season prices may be significantly lower than the peak season prices (20 Dec 10 Jan)
Important information
Group tour manager: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a local tour manager from arrival in
Crete.
Superior tour: Based in 4- and 5-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Private & tailor-made travel: This itinerary can
be taken privately on a date that suits you, for
which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it
can be tailored to your exact requirements.
Please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
roup tours include: International flights Transfers Experienced local tour manager / The best
G
local guides All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
easyJet flight extras
Cox & Kings can book priority boarding and seat
reservations on your behalf
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
Out (Fri)
Rtn (Fri)
02 Jun 17 09 Jun 17
Out (Fri)
Rtn (Fri)
15 Sep 17 22 Sep 17
Out (Fri)
Rtn (Fri)
06 Oct 17 13 Oct 17
141
GREECE TOURS
Crete: Minoans,
Venetians & Ottomans
Duration 9 Days & 8 Nights
Category Standard
Tour overview
The island of Crete was the homeland of
the Minoan civilisation 4,000 years ago.
The Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians
and Ottomans all left behind their legacy
as well. The rich cultural blend that is
Crete today mirrors these past influences.
Visit Bronze Age palaces, classical
cities, monasteries and medieval forts,
complemented by dramatic mountain
ranges, scenic coastlines and delicious
local cuisine, accompanied by experts Dr
Konstantine Politis or Dr George Manginis.
C&K highlights
Exclusive visit to Villa Ariadne at Knossos,
once home to a British archaeologist and
German generals
Special access to the archaeological study
centre at the Minoan town of Gournia
Lunch in a convent and a tour with a nun
Private tour of the archaeological site at
Eleftherna
Explore the remnants of Minoan, Venetian
and Ottoman civilisations
Welcome and farewell group meals
Expert lecturers
Dr Konstantine Politis
is a Greek archaeologist
and well-published scholar
specialising in the early
Byzantine-Christian and
early Islamic periods.
Educated in Greece, the
United States, Belgium and Britain, he has
worked extensively for the British Museum,
the antiquities ministries of Jordan, Syria,
and Oman, and recently at Athens University.
Dr George Manginis
excavation record
encompasses diverse
areas of Mediterranean
archaeology, from the
Neolithic to Late Islamic.
He has lectured on
Byzantine, Islamic and Chinese art at
SOAS, the University of Edinburgh, the
V&A and other educational institutions. He
has published two books, Mount Sinai: A
History of Travellers and Pilgrims and China
Rediscovered: The Benaki Museum Collection
of Chinese Ceramics.
142
Day 3: Heraklion
Morning visit to the Archaeological Museum to
see the collection of Minoan items, followed by
a walking tour of Cretes capital, Heraklion. In
the afternoon, visit the Historical Museum and
the Heraklion Museum of Visual Arts. (B)
XXXXXXXXXX
Extension
Tour + Malia
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
British Airways flight upgrades
Club Europe from 395 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
143
GREECE TOURS
Important information
144
TOURS GREECE
Important information
Luxury:
The Dodecanese
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Superior
Important information
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4- and
5-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards,
to discuss flight options or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
145
MALTA
Discover
Malta
Valletta
Valletta
Mdina
The capital of Malta, the city of Valletta was founded after the epic
resistance of the Knights of St John in the Great Siege of 1565 against
the Ottoman Turks. The city is centred on two harbours that were
heavily damaged during the second world war. Visit the Upper Barrakka
Gardens; originally an exercise ground for the knights, the site has been
a public garden since the 18th century and has magnificent views of the
Grand Harbour. The St Johns Co-Cathedral is one of the most important
buildings in Malta and contains two masterpieces by Caravaggio. View
the Palace of the Grandmasters, the seat of the Maltese parliament, and
Casa Rocca Piccola, a former private residence that offers an interesting
insight into the privileged lifestyles of the Maltese aristocracy.
Known as the Silent City due to its quiet, narrow streets, which
are lamplit by night, and the lack of cars, Mdina retains a timeless
atmosphere. Its history dates back more than 4,000 years and,
according to tradition, it is here that St Paul the Apostle lived after being
shipwrecked on the islands in 60AD. Commanding a magnificent view
of Malta, the city maintained a strategic position due to its central
location on the highest point on the island and its distance from the
sea. Best described by its medieval name Citta Notabile, or the noble
city it has fascinating cultural and religious treasures, including an
extraordinary mix of medieval and baroque architecture. It is also one of
Europes finest examples of an ancient walled city.
146
MALTA
Gozo
Scenic countryside Ancient religious sites
The island of Gozo, meaning joy in Castilian, is the second-largest
island within the Maltese archipelago. Compared to its south-eastern
neighbour, Gozo is more rural and known for its scenic hills, which are
featured on its coat of arms.
The island has long been identified as Ogygia, the domain of the nymph
Calypso in Homers Odyssey. Sights include historic locations such as the
megalithic temples of Malta, the worlds oldest free-standing structures
and also the worlds oldest religious site; coastal features such as the
Azure Window, a natural arch in the rock; the islands capital Victoria;
and the Basilica of Ta Pinu.
Blue Grotto
A suggested itinerary...
Malta in Luxury
Tailored travel
147
MALTA TOUR
Tour overview
This tour discovers Maltas rich and
varied historic and artistic legacy with
expert Dr Konstantine Politis. Malta has
preserved all traces of its extraordinary
past, from Neolithic temples dating back
5,000 years to the elegant city of Valetta,
created by the valour of the Knights of
St John, and outstanding artworks by
Caravaggio. The islands archaeology,
architecture and art are set against a
backdrop of beautiful landscapes.
C&K highlights
Exclusive tour of Villa Bologna with a
member of the owners family
Private visit to Casa Rocca Piccola with
one of the owners
Tour the Carmelite Priory with a monk
Private dinner at Palazz L-Ahmar, a
former hunting lodge built by the Knights
of St John
View Caravaggios masterpieces in St
Johns Co-Cathedral
Spend a full day in Gozo
Welcome and farewell group dinners
Expert lecturer
Dr Konstantine Politis
is a Greek archaeologist
and well-published scholar
specialising in the early
Byzantine-Christian and
early Islamic periods.
Educated in Greece, the
United States, Belgium and Britain, he has
worked extensively for the British Museum,
the antiquities ministries of Jordan, Syria and
Oman, and recently at Athens University.
Area Map
148
Day 4: Attard
Morning visit to the Rotunda of Mosta, known
for its large unsupported dome, followed by a
guided tour at Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar. Continue
to Attard for a private tour of the baroque Villa
Bologna and its gardens with a member of the
owners family. This evening there will be a farewell
dinner at Palazz L-Ahmar, a former hunting lodge
built by the Knights of St John. (B, D)
Day 5: Rabat Mdina Fly to London
Travel across the island to see the megalithic
temple complex of Hagar Qim, followed by St
Pauls Church, grotto and catacombs in Rabat.
Try pastizzi, traditional Maltese savoury pastries,
and spend the afternoon in Mdina, the ancient
walled capital, to see the medieval town and the
Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul. The day will
end with a private visit at the Carmelite Priory,
where you will be shown around by one of the
monks who still live there. Transfer to the airport
for a flight to London. (B)
Meal basis: As per itinerary B: Breakfast,
L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Extension
Tour + Sliema
3 Days & 2 Nights from 145
Extension starts on Day 5 of tour
XXXXXXXXXX
Harbour, Valletta
Important information
Royal Academy of Arts (RA) tours:
A collection of expert-accompanied tours
focusing on creativity in its many forms. All RA
tours are open to everyone and can be viewed
at coxandkings.co.uk/ra.
Expert-led tour: This tour is fully escorted
throughout by a lecturer who has specialist
knowledge of the destination and its culture, as
well as an experienced local guide.
Superior tour: This tour is based in 4-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Accessibility: This tour involves some long walks
and therefore requires a good level of fitness.
Group tours include: International flights Transfers Expert lecturer The best local guides
All accommodation All sightseeing described All entrance fees Meals as per itinerary
Air Malta flight upgrades
Business Class from 345 return
The guideline tour prices are all per person in UK pounds, based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
For current prices for all departure dates, including special offers when applicable, please call 020 7808 6785,
email info@coxandkings.co.uk or visit coxandkings.co.uk. All prices are subject to availability.
149
MALTA TOURS
Splendours of Malta
Duration 6 Days & 5 Nights
Category Standard
Valletta
Category Superior
Important information
150
Malta
Short Breaks
Short break inclusions
Superior
Superior
Flights
Flights are from the following:
London Gatwick: British Airways, easyJet,
Air Malta, Monarch
London Heathrow: Air Malta
Manchester: Air Malta, easyJet
Belfast International or Newcastle:
easyJet
East Midlands: Monarch
Please speak to a tour consultant for
further details and a personalised quote, or
additional hotel options, on 020 7808 6785.
Alternatively, visit our website:
coxandkings.co.uk/short-breaks.
Excursions
Valletta & the Three Cities
From 123 per person / full day
The island of Gozo
From 144 per person / full day
Features:
Features:
Superior
Good Standard
Weather
Valletta
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 15 15 16 19 23 27 30 30 28 24 20 17
B 9 9 10 12 15 19 21 22 20 17 14 11
C 80 55 37 20 7 3 0 6 36 86 70 99
Features:
Features:
151
XXXXXXXXXX
152
Central
Europe
Germany
Hungary
Switzerland, at the very centre of Europe, is a civilised and cosmopolitan country, home to the best
chocolate, cuckoo clocks and scenic rail journeys in the world. Neighbouring Austria, formerly the
power base of the House of Habsburg, displays a wealth of magnificent architecture, fine art and an
incredible literary, scientific and musical heritage. Germany is a country of contrasts, from modern
cities to ancient forests, windswept coastlines and alpine mountains. Regional differences are evident
in the architecture, culture and cuisine, making it a fascinating destination to explore. Holidays to
central Europe can easily be combined with neighbouring countries such as Slovakia, the Czech
Republic and Hungary on a rail itinerary or relaxing Danube river cruise.
154
157
Private tour
Grand Tour of Switzerland by Rail Private
158
159
Short breaks
Berlin & Budapest
Vienna & Salzburg
Climate
Summers (June to August) are mild in central Europe, especially in the lowlands, while winters (November to February) are
significantly colder than the rest of Europe, with snowfall a common occurrence in the mountains.
Zrich, Switzerland
Berlin, Germany
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 2 4 9 13 18 21 23 22 19 13 7 3
A 2 3 8 13 19 22 24 23 19 13 7 3
B -3 -1 1 4 8 11 13 12 10 6 2 -1
B -3 -2 0 4 8 12 13 13 10 6 2 -1
C 64 63 65 87 110
136 127
134 91 67 76 67
C 42 35 37 41 55 72 53 63 45 36 49 53
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations,
places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our central Europe experts.
t
info@coxandkings.co.uk
coxandkings.co.uk
153
SWITZERLAND
Discover
Switzerland
Zrich
Zrich
Bernese Oberland
Zrich is Switzerlands largest city and well known for its wide range
of cultural attractions and excellent hotels that cater for every visitor.
There are over 50 museums and more than 100 art galleries. It has
a spectacular old town, well worth exploring for its small shops and
boutiques. International fashion labels and Zrich designs can be found
on Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most celebrated shopping streets in
the world. Nature is on the doorstep and Zrichs overall quality of
life is frequently voted the best in the world. Cruise on Lake Zurich or,
if you would like to explore further afield, you can easily visit some of
Switzerlands most breathtaking scenery, including Mount Rigi, Mount
Titlis and Rheinfall (Europes biggest waterfall) on a day trip.
154
Lake Thun
SWITZERLAND
Lucerne
Foodies will love this region. From wine tasting in the Unesco-protected
Lavaux vineyards and cheese making in Gruyre to the Cailler chocolate
factory in Broc, there is so much to savour. Board the Swiss Chocolate Train
departing from Montreux for a taste of Swiss cuisine.
Down by the waters edge, the lakeside is dotted with fairy-tale chteaux,
luxurious manor houses and modest beaches. The medieval Chateau de
Chillon, once home to the Dukes of Savoy, is particularly well worth a visit.
Geneva is situated where the River Rhne leaves Lake Geneva, home to
many international organisations including the Red Cross and the United
Nations. Be sure to visit glamorous Montreux, a world-famous resort in the
heart of the Swiss Riviera, best known for its annual jazz festival.
A suggested itinerary...
For breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Alps and the lakes,
take the mountain railway to the top of Mount Rigi, 'the Queen of the
Mountains. With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can travel to the top of the
mountain free of charge.
Tailored travel
155
SWITZERLAND
Grabunden
Chic resort towns Idyllic Alpine scenery
Graubnden is a region in the south-west corner of Switzerland,
renowned as much for its luxurious, elegant resorts as for its wild,
dramatic scenery and fresh Alpine air. It is also well-known as the home
of Heidi and as the source of the River Rhine. From the natural hot
springs of Bad Ragaz to the idyllic countryside surrounding Davos, this
is the perfect place for relaxation and recuperation. Little wonder that it
has been a top holiday destination for hundreds of years.
For those looking for a hint of glamour, head to the exclusive town of
St Moritz. Its sunny climate provides the perfect weather for leisurely
strolls around the lake. The municipality of Scuol is an interesting place
to stay, where Romansch is still the official language. Alternatively, enjoy
a range of summer and winter activities in the Swiss mountain resort of
Klosters, a royal favourite, or visit the oldest city in Switzerland, Chur.
St Moritz
Ticino
Italian-influenced region of Switzerland Distinct
culture & character
The region of Ticino in the far south of Switzerland stretches down to
meet the tips of lakes Maggiore and Lugano in Italy. This is the Italianspeaking part of Switzerland and the more Mediterranean influence
is palpable. Stroll around the pretty lakeside towns of Locarno and
Lugano, visit the three castles and richly decorated houses in the town of
Bellinzona, or escape to the small mountain villages of northern Ticino
where life continues much as it always has done.
156
TOURS SWITZERLAND
Grand Tour of
Switzerland by Rail
Duration 9 Days & 8 Nights
Category Superior
Tour overview
Discover the diversity of Switzerland
while travelling in First Class comfort
along some of the most scenic rail
journeys in Europe. From the fashionable
Swiss German city of Zrich in the
north to the mountains and lakes of
the Italian-speaking south, explore the
cultural differences and breathtaking
landscapes that this charming country
has to offer.
C&K highlights
Travel on the renowned Golden Pass line,
as well as the Glacier and Bernina Express
trains
Boat cruise on Lake Lucerne
First Class rail tickets included
Lunch included on the Glacier Express
Visit Europes highest railway station
Weather
Interlaken
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 0 1 4 8 12 16 19
18
15 10 4 1
B -6 -5 -3 0 4 8 10 9 7 4 -1 -4
C 84 80 80 99 119 142 130 153 108 85 100 86
Area Map
Day 8: Lucerne
Morning rail journey on the Gotthard Express
route from the Mediterranean south to the
traditional heart of Switzerland, Lucerne.
The Gotthard route is extremely scenic and
includes a lake cruise from Flelen to Lucerne,
ideal for relaxing and enjoying lunch at the
onboard restaurant. Arrive into Lucerne and stay
overnight at the Hotel Wilden Mann. (B)
Day 9: Fly home
Train to Zrich airport and fly to London. (B)
Meal basis: As per itinerary B: Breakfast,
L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information
Superior tour: Based in 4- and 5-star
accommodation. Please visit this tour on our
website to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards,
to discuss flight options or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
157
Superior
Superior
Flights
Berlin
Flights are from the following:
London Heathrow: British Airways,
Lufthansa Airlines
Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool
International, London Gatwick, London
Luton or Southend: easyJet
Leeds Bradford: Jet2
Manchester: Lufthansa Airlines, easyJet
Birmingham: Lufthansa Airlines
Budapest
Flights are from the following:
London Heathrow: British Airways
London Gatwick: easyJet, Norwegian
Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, East
Midlands or Manchester: Jet2
* Alternative flights are available with
Ryanair
Please speak to a tour consultant for
further details and a personalised quote, or
additional hotel options, on 020 7808 6785.
InterContinental, Berlin
Features:
Features:
Good Standard
Good Standard
Weather
Berlin
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 2 3 8 13 19 22 24 23 19 13 7 3
B -3 -2 0 4 8 12 13 13 10 6 2 -1
C 42 35 37 41 55 72 53 63 45 36 49 53
Budapest
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 2 3 8 13 19 22 24 23 19 13 7 3
B -3 -2 0 4 8 12 13 13 10 6 2 -1
C 42 35 37 41 55 72 53 63 45 36 49 53
Features:
Features:
158
Superior
Good Standard
Flights
Vienna
Flights are from the following:
London Heathrow: British Airways, Austrian
Airlines
London Gatwick: easyJet
Manchester: Jet2
Salzburg
Flights are from the following:
London Gatwick: British Airways, easyJet
Bristol, London Luton or Liverpool
International: easyJet
Belfast International, Edinburgh, Leeds
Bradford or Manchester: Jet2
Please speak to a tour consultant for
further details and a personalised quote, or
additional hotel options, on 020 7808 6785.
Alternatively, visit our website:
coxandkings.co.uk/short-breaks.
Features:
Features:
Luxury
Good Standard
Weather
Vienna
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 2 4 10 16 20 23 26 25 21 15 8 3
B -3 -1 2 6 10 13 15 15 11 7 2 -1
C 31 32 35 43 62 72 68 61 42 37 46 36
Salzburg
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 2 4 10 16 20 23 26 25 21 15 8 3
B -3 -1 2 6 10 13 15 15 11 7 2 -1
C 31 32 35 43 62 72 68 61 42 37 46 36
Features:
Features:
159
XXXXXXXXXX
160
Nordic
Europe
Greenland
Norway
Iceland
162
164
168
166
167
Climate
Nordic Europe has distinct seasonal changes with daylight varying greatly between summer and winter. Norway and
Iceland have milder climates than you might expect due to the warming currents of the Gulf Stream, although inland
and northern areas are cooler. Greenland has an Arctic climate with average temperatures rarely exceeding 10C in the
warmest summer months, except in the far south. The Arctic experiences very long, cold winters and short, cool summers.
North of the Arctic Circle, the Midnight Sun can be seen in summer while in winter it mostly remains below the horizon.
Oslo, Norway
Reykjavik, Iceland
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A -2 -1 4 8 15 20 21 20 14 9 3 0
A 1 2 2 5 9 11 13
12 9 6 2 1
B -8 -8 -5 -1 5 9 11 10 7 3 -3 -7
B -4 -3 -3 -1 3 6 7 7 4 1 -2 -4
C 53 41 51 45 56 69 83 91 94 92 80 60
C 99 97 99 75 60 67 66 83 86 115 97 100
Key: A: Maximum average temperature (C) B: Minimum average temperature (C) C: Average rainfall (mm)
Inspired to venture further afield? Browse our website to discover additional destinations,
places to stay and itineraries; or speak to our Nordic Europe experts.
t
info@coxandkings.co.uk
coxandkings.co.uk
161
NORWAY
Discover
Norway
Bryggen, Bergen
Oslo
Bergen
Formerly known as Christiania, Oslo is the largest city and the capital
of Norway. Its most famous street is Karl Johansgate. Many of the
main sights are within a 15-minute walk of here, including the harbour
front, Akershus Festning medieval castle and the Nobel Peace Centre.
Oslo occupies an unusually large land area, of which two thirds are
protected areas of forests, hills and lakes. Renowned for its winter sports,
Holmenkollen Ski Jump is one of the landmarks of the capital and offers
a panoramic view of the area. Oslo is also home to two fascinating
museums: the Viking Ship Museum, where the ships from Tune, Gokstad,
Oseberg and Borre are on display; and the Fram Museum, which
houses the very ship that Roald Amundsen used for the first successful
expedition to the North Pole in 1911.
162
NORWAY
Troms
Troms cathedral Fjellheisen cable car
Botanical Gardens
Known also as the 'Gateway to the Arctic', Troms has been the
starting point for many polar expeditions. It is the world's northernmost
university town and it has a vivid cultural and pub life with a wealth
of shops, restaurants and street cafes. The historic centre is notable
by its centuries-old wooden houses and Troms Cathedral, the only
Norwegian cathedral made of wood. Troms is surrounded by snowcapped mountains and hundreds of islands and deep fjords. During the
winter months, September through to March, it has become increasingly
popular as a viewing point for the colourful northern lights that regularly
make an appearance, lighting up the sky at night.
Troms is home to the Fjellheisen cable car, reaching 421 metres above
sea level in just four minutes, taking you to a viewing platform where you
can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city, surrounding islands,
mountains and fjords. Pay a visit to the worlds northernmost botanic
garden with Arctic, Antarctic and Alpine plants from all continents.
Alesund
Norwegian fjords
Fjords are formed when a glacier retreats over several ice ages,
carving a typical u-shaped valley with the movement of the ice.
If the valley created is below current sea levels then the sea fills
up the valley floor, forming a narrow steep-sided inlet connected
to the sea. Norway has a total of seven areas that are on the
Unesco world heritage list due to their unique natural beauty. The
West Norwegian Fjords area is said to be among the most scenic
landscapes in the world with fjord depths varying from 10 to 500
metres and the surrounding mountains rising to more than 1,400
metres high. The longest fjord in Norway and the third longest in
the world is the Sognefjord, which is an impressive 203km long.
Reindeer and traditional Sami yurt, Troms
A suggested itinerary...
Norway in a Nutshell
Day 2: Oslo
Full day at leisure to explore the capital of
Norway and its largest city. Visit the Maritime
Museum, Munch Museum and City Hall, the
home of the Nobel peace prize ceremonies. (B)
Day 3: Bergen
Morning rail journey to Myrdal to join with the
scenic Flam railway for 20km of picturesque
fjords, mountains and waterfalls. After the
rail journey, cruise from Aurlandsfjord to the
Unesco-listed site of Nryfjord, the narrowest
fjord in Europe. Continue by coach from
Gudvangen to Voss, stopping en route to view
the Stalheimsfossen and Sivlefossen waterfalls.
Continue by rail from Voss to Bergen. Transfer
and stay 2 nights at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel
Bergen. (B)
Day 4: Bergen
Full day at leisure to explore Bryggen Wharf. (B)
Day 5: Fly home
Morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport and fly
home. (B)
Guideline Prices
Low season from: 885 (Feb)
High season from: 935 (Jun)
Tailored travel
163
Discover
Iceland & Greenland
Reykjavik, Iceland
South Iceland
164
Greenland
Thingvellir, a Unesco world heritage site and the point where the
North American and European tectonic plates meet, forms part of
the stupendous Golden Circle. It also includes Geysir, a hot spring that
periodically ejects hot steam and water into the air and after which
all such spouting hot springs are now named, and the mighty Gullfoss
waterfalls.
Just north of the national park lies Hvalfjordur, or Whale Fjord. At 30km
long and 5km wide, it is the longest fjord in south-west Iceland. The
magical Snaefellsnes peninsula is just a little further north from here.
Known as an area of outstanding natural scenery, it is often referred to
as Iceland in miniature because so many national sights of interest can
be found concentrated here in one area.
One of the most sparsely populated islands, the inhabitants have a unique
mix of Inuit and Danish blood and blend traditional and modern beliefs
and practices. Visit local communities, some so remote that they are only
accessible by boat, and discover the remains of Viking settlements.
With very few roads, transport is generally via small boat or helicopter,
with flights offering the chance to glimpse the islands stunning
topography from above. Alternatively cruise along the western coastline
aboard the Sarfaq Ittuk, the only coastal ferry in Greenland. Meet local
people travelling on board and watch the landscape change from green
hills to steep granite peaks as you cruise under the midnight sun. It
is possible to visit Greenland during the winter to go in search of the
northern lights, and also in the summer when more of this remarkable
and wild island becomes accessible.
Geysers
Glacier, Greenland
A suggested itinerary...
Icelandic Explorer
7 Days & 6 Nights from 1,150
West and southern Iceland incorporate
a host of natural wonders and stunning
scenery to explore, from the Snaefellsnes
peninsula to the Skaftafell National Park,
part of the largest national park in Europe,
the Eyjafjallajokull glacier, Jokulsarlon glacial
lagoon and the geothermal waters of the
Blue Lagoon.
Day 1: Fly to Reykjavik Hverageri
Fly to Keflavik International airport. On arrival,
pick up your car hire and drive along the
Reykjanes peninsula towards the south coast and
the town of Hverageri. Stay overnight at rk
Hotel (or similar). (N)
Day 2: Vik
Drive via the geothermal area of Haukadalur,
Day 6: Reykjavik
Return to Reykjavik and visit the Reykjanes
peninsula, home to the moon-like landscapes of
Lake Kleifarvatn. Visit the Blue Lagoon and swim
in the warm geothermal waters. Stay overnight at
the Reykjavik Lights Hotel (or similar). (B)
Day 7: Fly home
Transfer to Keflavik airport and return your car
hire in time for your flight home. (B)
Guideline Prices
Low season from: 1,150 (Apr)
High season from: 1,360 (Jun Aug)
Tailored travel
165
ICELAND TOURS
Iceland Express
Duration 8 Days & 7 Nights
Category Standard
Important information
Category Standard
166
Important information
Standard tour: This tour is based in 3- and
4-star accommodation. In remote areas,
Cox & Kings uses the best available
accommodation. However, outside Reykjavik
facilities should be regarded as basic but
comfortable. Please visit this tour on our website
to see details of the hotels included.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards,
to discuss flight options or to tailor this
itinerary, please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
Tour overview
This tour combines the sights of both
Iceland and Greenland. Starting in
Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, head to
Thingvellir National Park, site of the
world's oldest existing parliament, before
continuing to the hot springs of Geyser,
the Gullfoss waterfalls and the dramatic
highlands of Landmannalaugar.
Continue to Greenland and the town of
Ilulissat, located 200km inside the Arctic
Circle. Explore some of the country's
most dramatic scenery, from calving
glaciers to the abandoned ruins of
Sermermiut.
C&K highlights
Combine 5 nights in Iceland with 3 nights
in Ilulissat, Greenland
Comprehensive tour of Icelands Golden
circle region and Selfoss
Visit the Esko glacier
Bathe in the thermals waters of the Blue
Lagoon
Small group size maximum 12 people
Weather
Reykjavik
J F M A M J J A S O N D
A 1 2 2 5 9 11 13
12 9 6 2 1
B -4 -3 -3 -1 3 6 7 7 4 1 -2 -4
C 99 97 99 75 60 67 66 83 86 115 97 100
Area Map
Day 7: Sermermiut
Take an easy hike to the remains of the
abandoned settlement of Sermermiut. Learn
about the life and customs of the Greenlanders.
Afternoon at leisure or optional activities
payable locally. (B, D)
Important information
Locally escorted tour: This tour is led in each
destination en route by a local tour escort.
Standard tour: This tour is based in 3- and
4-star accommodation. Please visit this tour on
our website to see details of the hotels included.
Non-exclusive group tour: Your arrival and
departure transfers may be shared with other
parties and, when on board, all transfers and
excursions are operated as a group with other
passengers who may not be Cox & Kings clients.
The maximum number of passengers on each
departure will 12.
Tailor-made travel: For a price quote based
on alternative accommodation standards, to
discuss flight options or to tailor this itinerary,
please call 020 7808 6785 or email
info@coxandkings.co.uk.
167
THE ARCTIC
Discover
The Arctic
The startlingly beautiful Arctic remains one of the worlds least
visited and inaccessible regions. For many years only frequented
by the Arctic explorers (men of the calibre of Roald Amundsen
and Sir Ranulph Fiennes), the extraordinary beauty of the region
can now be visited by travellers, whether by land or via specially
built ships.
From northern Scandinavia to the Norwegian archipelago of
Svalbard, Greenland and Iceland, experience the extraordinary
variety of wildlife both on land and in the Arctic Ocean. Expect
spectacular natural landscapes, from large icebergs to deep
fjords, rugged coastline and windswept mountains, all lit up by
the unforgettable northern lights. In summer, resilient flowers turn
tundra to coloured carpets frequented by foxes, wolves and bear.
Icebergs, Greenland
Svalbard &
Spitsbergen
Northern Scandinavia,
Greenland & Iceland
The remote Svalbard archipelago, halfway between the North Pole and
mainland Norway, was originally established as a whaling base during
the 17th century, before the discovery of coal in the 19th century and
subsequent mining operations. The archipelago features a huge variety
of spectacular scenery, from jagged snow-covered mountains and
rugged cliffs to mighty blue glaciers and icy tundra.
Venture inside the Arctic Circle in the far north of Norway, Sweden
or Finland. Visit small towns along the northern coastline of Norway
including Troms, often referred to as the capital of the Arctic with old
wooden houses and its Arctic Cathedral; Alta, and its ice hotel; and the
frontier town of Kirkenes on the border with Russia, which served as a
supply base for the Germans during the second world war.
168
Iceland, land of fire and ice, also just reaches into the Arctic Circle, its
small offshore island of Grmsey straddling the line. Much of the vast
and breathtaking pristine wilderness of Greenland also reaches beyond
the Arctic Circle. Awe-inspiring glaciers reach the sea, calving enormous
icebergs, while the windswept tundra and mountain valleys are home to
tiny communities, some so remote that they are only accessible by boat.
THE ARCTIC
C&K Recommends...
Snow mobile excursions
Join a snow mobile excursion into the countryside. Traverse through the
Arctic wonderland deep into snowy forests and across frozen lakes in
search of wildlife or maybe the magical northern lights.
Dog sledding
With your own team of huskies, head off with your guide into the Arctic
tundra. Experience what polar exploration once entailed as, with your
guide, you steer your team of dogs through the wilderness and across
the drifting snow.
Dog sledding, Arctic
A suggested itinerary...
Spitsbergen:
Realm of the Polar Bear
Tailored travel
169
INFORMATION
Booking Conditions
Our full booking conditions apply to all bookings.
These appear on our website www.coxandkings.
co.uk and can also be provided by post or e-mail
on request.
The following booking conditions contain only
some of the terms and conditions (which may
also be a summary) which apply to your booking.
Before you make your booking, you must read our
full booking conditions. By seeking confirmation
of your booking, we are entitled to assume that
you have done so and accept the full booking
conditions as the basis for your contract with Cox &
Kings Travel Limited (Cox & Kings, we, our or us)
and with any supplier with whom you have a direct
contract. In these booking conditions, you and
your means all persons named on the booking or
any of them as applicable (including anyone who is
added or substituted at a later date).
1) YOUR CONTRACT
(a) If you book only one type of arrangement with
Cox & Kings (for example hotel(s) only or cruise
only) and unless otherwise advised at the time of
booking, Cox & Kings acts only as a booking agent
for the supplier of that arrangement (for example
the hotel or cruise provider). Your contract for that
arrangement will be with that supplier (in these
conditions referred to as the Third Party Supplier)
and not Cox & Kings. The Third Party Suppliers
own terms and conditions (copies available on
request) will apply to that contract in addition to
the applicable parts of these conditions. (b) In all
other cases your contract will be with Cox & Kings.
(c) When you make a booking the person who
makes the booking guarantees that they have the
authority to accept and do accept on behalf of
your party the terms of these booking conditions.
2) BOOKING, PAYMENT AND CONFIRMATION
(a) Information as to how to make a booking,
including the applicable deposit or other amount
payable in order to do so and how we will
communicate with you in respect of your booking,
is shown on our website. For some holidays,
a higher deposit will be payable or it may be
necessary to make full payment at the time of
booking. This is usually the case where full payment
for certain services, such as your flight, has to be
made immediately after your booking is confirmed
in order to secure that service or the price quoted
at the time of booking. Where full payment is
required at the time of booking, 100% cancellation
charges will also apply from confirmation in the
event that you subsequently cancel.
(b) Where you book over the telephone and we are
in a position to confirm your booking, a binding
contract between you and Cox & Kings or between
you and the Third Party Supplier, as applicable, will
come into existence as soon as you provide your
credit or debit card details to make payment and
we verbally confirm your booking. Bookings made
via our website will be confirmed at the end of the
online booking process. All other bookings will be
confirmed and a binding contract will come into
existence when we issue a confirmation invoice.
Please note, though, that if you book private travel
arrangements or an extension to a group tour, your
accommodation, flights etc will only be requested
by Cox & Kings once the payment due at the time
of booking has been received. Your confirmation
invoice will indicate your requested package cost
and you will be advised of any accommodation,
flights etc that are still on request and not confirmed
at the time the confirmation invoice is issued.
(c) It is your responsibility to check the
confirmation invoice and any other documents we
send you carefully and to let Cox & Kings or your
travel agent know immediately in the event of any
error or inaccuracy, as it may not be possible to
make changes later. Where we act only as agent for
a Third Party Supplier we will have no responsibility
for any errors in any documentation except where
those errors were made by ourselves.
170
INFORMATION
9) FORCE MAJEURE
Except where otherwise expressly stated in these
booking conditions, neither we nor any Third
Party Supplier can accept liability or pay any
compensation where the performance or prompt
performance of our or the Third Party Suppliers
contractual obligations is prevented or affected
by or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss (as
more fully described in clause 13(a)(ii) of our full
booking conditions) as a result of force majeure. In
these booking conditions, force majeure means
any event which we / the supplier of the service(s)
in question / the Third Party Supplier could not,
even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events
are likely to include, whether actual or threatened,
war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial
dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse
weather conditions, flood, epidemics, fire, airport,
port or airspace closures, restrictions or congestion,
flight restrictions imposed by any regulatory
authority or other third party and all similar events
outside the control of the party concerned.
10) CANCELLATION BY YOU
Should you wish to cancel your booking, the person
who made the booking must notify Cox & Kings or
your travel agent (as applicable) in writing. Such
notification will only be effective on receipt by
us of your written notification, since we can only
act on receipt of this. Please state the reason for
your cancellation as you may be covered by your
insurance policy. Claims must, however, be made
direct to your insurance company.
The following cancellation charges will apply unless
you are otherwise advised at the time of booking.
For some bookings, including those for which full
payment is required at the time of booking, 100%
cancellation charges apply from confirmation.
Where the cancellation charge is shown as a
percentage, this is calculated on the basis of the
total cost payable by the person(s) cancelling,
excluding insurance premiums and amendment
charges. Insurance premiums and amendment
charges are not refundable.
Days before
Amount of
departure
cancellation charges as
notification received a % of total tour cost.
More than 70 days Deposit(s) (inc any
additional deposit)
70- 29 days
40% or deposit(s) if higher
28-15 days
60% or deposit(s) if higher
14-8 days
75% or deposit(s) if higher
7-4 days
90%
3 days to day of
departure or later
100%
No allowance or refund can be made for meals,
rooms, excursions etc included in the price of
your tour but not taken, nor can any refund be
made for services that cannot be used due to lost,
mislaid or destroyed travel tickets or vouchers. Part
cancellation of a booking may result in increased
costs for the remaining party members.
11) PRICES
Prices are based upon known costs and exchange
rates as shown in our full booking conditions which
can be viewed on our website at coxandkings.co.uk.
For all exchange rates not mentioned, the rate of
exchange for the US dollar applies. Where your
contract is with Cox & Kings, once the price of your
chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of
booking, we will only change it in the circumstances
and subject to the safeguards set out in our full
booking conditions.
Where your contract is with a Third Party Supplier,
as we act only as agent, we must pass on to you
in full all additional costs and charges of whatever
nature imposed by the Third Party Supplier in
accordance with its own terms and conditions.
Please note, changes and errors occasionally occur.
You must check the price of your chosen holiday
at the time of booking. We reserve the right to
make changes to, and correct errors in, advertised
prices at any time before your holiday is confirmed.
Occasionally our holiday prices are discounted for a
limited period for promotional purposes. Discounts
171
INFORMATION
Convention) limits the maximum amount the
carrier has to pay if found liable in the event of
death or personal injury. EC Regulation 392/2009
and The Athens Convention also limits the
maximum amount the carrier has to pay if found
liable in the event of loss or damage to luggage
and also makes provision for valuables. Once on
board ship, all valuable and important items should
be deposited with the purser or in the mini-safe
in your cabin if available. Please remember that
no cabin mini-safe is totally secure and consider
whether you need to bring such items on holiday
with you. Placing items in a mini-safe is not
depositing them with the carrier for safekeeping
for the purposes of the Athens Convention. We
and the carrier cannot accept any responsibility or
liability for any valuable or important items which
are not deposited with the purser for safekeeping.
For items which are deposited with the purser
for safekeeping, the maximum the carrier would
have to pay you if found liable for any item(s) lost
or damaged (for any reason) while deposited is
the maximum which is payable under the Athens
Convention in this situation. As referred to above,
we are entitled to rely on all limitations of liability
available to the carrier. (vii) Please note, we cannot
accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense
or other sum(s) of any description (1) which on
the basis of the information given to us by you
concerning your booking prior to our accepting
it, we could not reasonably have foreseen you
would suffer or incur if we breached our contract
with you or (2) which did not result from any
breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or
our employees or, where we are responsible for
them, our suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept
liability for any expenses or losses that relate to
or arise from any business (including without
limitation, self-employed loss of earnings).
(b) Clauses 13(b) (i) and (ii) below apply only if
your contract is with a Third Party Supplier.
(i) As we act only as an agent for the Third Party
Supplier concerned we accept no liability in relation
to the arrangements provided by that Third Party
Supplier or for the acts or omissions of the Third
Party Supplier concerned. The terms and conditions
of the Third Party Supplier will apply to your
contract (copies available on request from us). (ii)
However, in the event that we are found liable in
respect of any Third Party Supplier arrangements
on any basis whatsoever, we are entitled to rely
on the limitations and exclusions of liability and
defences set out in clause 13(a). We do not exclude
or limit any liability for death or personal injury
that arises as a result of our negligence or that of
our employees while acting in the course of their
employment.
14) TRANSPORTATION (INCLUDING DELAY)
(a) Air, rail, road and other departure times are
supplied by the carriers. Please see our full booking
conditions for details of our responsibility in the
event of delay.
(b) In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No
2111/2005, we are required to bring to your
attention the existence of a Community list that
contains details of air carriers that are subject to
an operating ban within the EU Community. The
Community list is available for inspection at http://
ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/list_en.htm We
are also required to advise you of the carrier(s) (or,
if the carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s))
that will operate your flight(s) at the time of
booking. Where we are only able to inform you of
the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall
inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s)
as soon as we become aware of this. Any change
to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has
been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as
possible. For information on flight timings, please
see our full booking conditions.
(c) If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight
ticket is downgraded or boarding is denied by your
airline, depending on the circumstances, the airline
may be required to pay you compensation, refund
the cost of your flight and / or provide you with
accommodation and / or refreshments under EC
Regulation No 261/2004 the Denied Boarding
172
Abta
Abta and Abta members help holidaymakers to
get the most from their travel and assist them
when things do not go according to plan. We are
obliged to maintain a high standard of service
to you by Abtas Code of Conduct. For further
information about Abta, the Code of Conduct and
the arbitration service available to you if you have
a complaint, contact Abta, 30 Park Street, London
SE1 9EQ or call 020 3117 0500 or www.abta.com.
The above applies only to services supplied by
Cox & Kings Travel Limited and does not apply to
services featured in this brochure that are provided
by any Third Party Supplier where you enter into a
contract with the Third party Supplier.
INFORMATION
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an important part of any booking. Cox & Kings requires
that everyone who books with us has travel insurance, which includes
cover for all activities featured as part of their trip at the time of booking.
If you have not already arranged appropriate cover, our recommended
travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine Direct.
BENEFIT
LIMIT
A. Medical expenses
In patient benefit
Criminal injuries
Personal liability
B. Personal accident
Permanent loss of sight
Loss of limb(s)
Permanent total disablement
Death
C. Cancellation or curtailment
D. Delayed departure or arrival
Either compensation
OR cancellation after 12 hours
Hijack of aircraft 100 per day
Interruption of transport
E. Personal effects
Temporary loss of baggage
Money
Tickets
Passport and visas
F. Legal expenses
G. Winter sports
10,000,000
10 per day up to 200
100 per day up to 5,000
2,000,000
25,000
25,000
25,000
25,000
10,000
3,000*
up to 100
up to 1,500
up to 3,000
300
2,000
(Valuables limited to 350)
(Single article limit 250)
(Disc collections 200)
100
500
1,000
250
25,000
Optional
IMPORTANT
This is only a summary of cover; full details of the cover provided are
shown on your policy document. You will be asked to read it carefully to
ensure you are happy with the cover provided which is offered on a
non-advised basis from a single insurer.
A copy of the policy document is available for download online at
campbellirvinedirect.com/coxandkings. The policy contains a
14-day cooling off period and details of how to make a claim and who
to contact in the event of a medical emergency.
The policy includes certain terms and conditions, exclusions and
excesses. In particular cover is excluded for any defined pre-existing
medical condition from which you or any person upon whom travel
depends are suffering. If in doubt please contact the insurer's medical
helpline as additional cover may be purchased directly from the insurers
medical screening helpline for certain pre-existing medical conditions.
An additional premium applies to any person aged 66 - 69 years at the
date of payment of the insurance premium. The appropriate premium
will be quoted on application. This insurance is not available to any
person aged 70 years or more at the date of payment of insurance
premium unless agreed in writing. If you are aged 70 or older, the
charity Age UK offers a travel insurance policy. You can find details at
ageuk.org.uk/products/insurance.
Cox & Kings is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Campbell
Irvine Ltd. who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct
Authority. This can be checked on the FCA's register by visiting the FCA's
website at fca.org.uk or by contacting them on 0800 111 6787.
Find out more at coxandkings.co.uk or from your travel agent
173
INFORMATION
Travel in Europe
At Cox & Kings, we believe that a good holiday
is not luck, but judgment. We have compiled
the following information to outline the nature
of travel in Europe, and to help you prepare
for your holiday. However, even with the most
meticulous planning, minor problems can
occur and, while our local representatives are
always on hand to rectify such occurrences,
we do request that you have a patient and
broadminded approach to travelling in Europe.
Flights
174
Road Travel
Early Starts
Accommodation
Walking
Dress
Itinerary Changes
INFORMATION
B :
Visa required, to be completed online.
C:
Yellow fever precautions advised.
C*: A yellow fever certificate is required if
travelling from an infected country.
C: A yellow fever certificate is required for all
travellers more than one year old when
travelling from an infected country.
D:
Cholera precautions advised.
E: Typhoid, polio, rabies and hepatitis A
precautions may be advised.
F:
Malaria precautions advised.
G:
Tetanus precautions advised.
H: Areas of high altitude check with your GP
for confirmation that it is safe for you to visit.
I:
Food and drink precautions advised.
J:
Diphtheria precautions advised.
K:
Hepatitis B precautions advised.
Changes to requirements and recommendations:
The above information is accurate at the time of
writing (August 2016). Cox & Kings will advise you
before accepting your booking should there be any
subsequent changes to the above recommendations
and requirements. You should contact your GP or
visit the Masta (Medical Advice Service for Travellers
175
INFORMATION
Prices
We go to great lengths to ensure that our group and private tours
represent excellent value for money, taking into account the quality of
accommodation and the services included.
The pricing for all our tours to Europe includes the international airfare
from the UK. However, in an era when airlines regularly change their
fares due to fuel costs and other factors, the cost of a tour can change
after the publication of our brochures. Therefore, in this brochure all our
prices are guideline prices. For each tour we publish a lead-in price for
the low season, which is indicative of the lowest price at which the tour
is available, and the lead-in price for the high season. In some cases the
prices for peak season departures, over the Christmas period for example,
may be significantly higher than the guideline high season price.
Please see page 6 for a detailed explanation about the different types and
categories of tour, and all other aspects of our group tour programme.
Private Travel
For group tours, to see more up to date pricing for a specific departure
date, please visit our website at coxandkings.co.uk.
Private travel refers to trips taken independently and includes both set
itineraries and tailor-made holidays. Almost all our group tours can be
taken on a private basis and some itineraries are available for private
travel only. The private tours and suggested itineraries listed in this
brochure are suggestions to demonstrate how multiple places can be
connected together, giving an idea of how long you might like to spend
in each place and also a guideline price. All our itineraries can be tailored
to suit your particular requirements.
Important: For both group and private tours, please contact one of our
tour consultants for an accurate price quote for a specific departure date.
Please see page 7 for a detailed explanation about private travel with
Cox & Kings, including an explanation of our accommodation ratings.
Tours are labelled as cruise or rail journey if the core content of the
itinerary is by boat or train, including staying on board at night.
In such cases, while the sections of the itinerary before and after the
cruise or rail journey would operate as private travel, the days during the
cruise or rail journey and the relevant transfers and excursions may be
operated on a group basis with other passengers who may not be
Cox & Kings clients.
This brochure includes three types of group tour. The majority are
general interest tours, most of which are operated by Cox & Kings for
Cox & Kings clients. Where tours are labelled non-exclusive group tours,
they are not operated by Cox & Kings and the participants may not all
be Cox & Kings clients. The second type of tours, which are labelled
Solo Travellers, are specifically for individuals, as opposed to couples.
Cox & Kings also operates a programme of expert-accompanied art
tours on behalf of the Royal Academy of Arts.
There are four categories of group tour: Luxury, Superior, Standard
and Discovery.
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INFORMATION
Flight upgrades: For those wishing to fly in greater comfort, Cox &
Kings can offer favourable prices for upgrading to Premium Economy,
Business and First Class. Guideline prices for these upgrade supplements
are included on the tour page. Please contact your tour consultant for a
price quote based on your specific date of departure.
you would no longer benefit from the full Atol holiday protection
provided by a packaged air and land holiday.
Room upgrades: On both group tours and private holidays there may
be opportunities to upgrade to a higher standard of room in many
hotels. Please ask your Cox & Kings tour consultant to explain the
upgrade options to you and provide you with a price quote.
Land-Only Travel
Although guideline prices for the tours in this brochure include the
international airfare, if you would prefer to book your own flights,
whether to join a group tour or for private travel, your Cox & Kings tour
consultant will be happy to quote you the price for taking the tour on a
land-only basis.
However, before booking your own flights please always contact your
tour consultant because there are important issues to be aware of. For
example, if a tour includes internal flights there can be an impact on the
cost of those flights if they are booked separately from the international
flights, or on a different airline from the one mentioned in the itinerary.
If booking on a group tour you would also need to be aware of the tour
timings and there may be supplementary costs if you require private
transfers or additional hotel nights on arrival or departure.
We strongly advise against booking flights independently of Cox & Kings
for group tours as you would incur significant charges in the event that
a group tour is cancelled. Finally, it is important to be aware that, if you
choose to book your international flights independently of Cox & Kings,
When to Travel
Europe is also well known for its cultural festivals. If you are interested in
visiting during a particular celebration, please contact a Cox & Kings tour
consultant for dates.
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INFORMATION
Excellent Value
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Buying power:
This low price policy is made possible through
our buying power, which is generated by the
combined influence of the Cox & Kings group of
companies worldwide. As a result, we are able
to contract flights, hotels and ground services at
highly competitive rates.
Comparing like with like:
By its nature, high quality travel is not cheap
and, when planning a trip, it can seem as if
there is a big difference in price between what,
on the surface, are similar holidays. When
comparing like with like, we are confident
that our holidays represent excellent value for
money when the number and quality of services
included are taken into account.
Responsibility
Atol protection:
Cox & Kings is a fully bonded and
licensed tour operator and the air
holidays in this brochure are Atol protected by
the bonding scheme administered by the Civil
Aviation Authority (CAA). Our Atol number
is 2815. For more information about the
protection offered by the CAA, please visit
caa.co.uk.
Abta:
Cox & Kings is a member of Abta,
the Association of British Travel
Agents. For more information about Abta and
its members, please visit abta.com.
Foreign & Commonwealth
Office advice:
Cox & Kings receives a great deal of information
about conditions on the ground from its local
representatives. However, when deciding
whether particular countries or regions are
safe for travel, the final decision is dependent
on the guidance of the British Foreign &
Commonwealth Office (FCO). If you would like
to know the current travel advice for any country,
you can visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice or call
0870 606 0290. Cox & Kings actively supports
the FCOs Know Before You Go campaign, to
help you stay safe overseas. Find out more at
coxandkings.co.uk/kbyg.
Cool Earth:
Cox & Kings supports the
charity Cool Earth, which partners indigenous
Sustainable Tourism:
We acknowledge the importance of Aitos
sustainable tourism ethos, which recognises
the social, economic and environmental
responsibilities of tour operating.
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