Category: Europe

EuropeSignatures

Savor Central Europe with Signature Collection by Gate 1 Travel

on February 8, 2016

Experience Budapest, Vienna, Prague & Poland like never before on our luxury tour of Central Europe. Read on to discover why these cosmopolitan capitals are not to be missed, and subscribe to the Signature newsletter on our homepage for the latest deals from Signature Collection.

Central Europe sees fewer tourists than typical destinations like Paris, London and Rome, and that’s part of its charm – just take a peek at Time Out‘s cheat sheet for six things you can do in Budapest but not in London (check out #5 – our Signature package includes a private tour of Hungarian Parliament!).

On your Signature tour, you’ll spend 13 nights at 5-star hotels in Warsaw, Krakow, Budapest, Vienna & Prague. Our travels will showcase the best of Central Europe, with private tours of key sites like the Hungarian State Opera House and the Strahov Monastery Library.

You’ll be treated to exclusive events, including private concerts in Warsaw, Vienna and Prague, and a Hungarian dinner cruise with spectacular night views of Budapest. We’ll witness the splendor of Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, and cap it all off with an elegant dinner at Lobkowicz Palace, where you’ll be introduced to the Lobkowicz family’s private art collection.

Amidst the history of Krakow, the ambiance of Prague and the artistic wonders of Vienna, you’ll get a glimpse of a medieval Europe that has all but disappeared from other regions. These amazing photos of the Czech Republic speak for themselves!

Click here for your complete guide to the 15 Day Deluxe Central Europe from Gate 1 Travel’s Signature Collection.

 

 

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Go behind the scenes of Downton Abbey on our 6-day UK excursion

on January 25, 2016

Fans (including Princess Kate herself!) love Downton Abbey for the twisting plotlines and Crawley family intrigue – not to mention the fabulous shots of Highclere Castle, where the show is filmed.

Now, you can get one last glimpse of the Abbey – in person! Gate 1 Travel has designed an exclusive package especially for Downton Abbey fans: four nights in London, with a private tour of the set – at just $1599 with airfare for Gate 1 Travel followers.

You’ll spend a day touring Highclere Castle, strolling through rooms featured in the Downton Abbey series while your guides share the history of the castle – and maybe a few behind-the-scenes anecdotes! Explore the magnificent gardens, or channel your inner Lady Grantham and take tea in one of the castle’s tearooms, before taking a drive through the English countryside to Oxford. Stay in a 4-star hotel near the center of London, and explore the city on a half-day tour and a full day of leisure.

Use promo code BLHCDA100 and book by February 8, 2016 to join this unique British excursion!

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The Irresistible Allure of Greece

on January 21, 2016

The Cradle of Civilization Is as Magnificent as Ever

It is no secret that Greece has long danced to its own rhythm. One would expect nothing less from the place where western civilization itself was born. From poetry to philosophy, from democracy to drama, all the major disciplines that formed the building blocks of how we live today were created here during an ancient renaissance of arts, science and critical thinking.

For many – certainly, for today’s Greeks – the nation is so alluring because of the independence that it still exhibits today. And for all the attention it is getting regarding its place in the European Union, Greece remains one of the most beautiful and sought-after places on earth. How could it not? Its intense mountain and coastal beauty, dotted with colonnaded temples and awash in Aegean sun, are the stuff of every traveler’s dreams. Its lively culture, punctuated with dance and fabulous Mediterranean cuisine, engages the most stoic visitor. And its ancient monuments, proudly perched amidst cities, mountains and island vistas, have endured millennia of change. Dare we say, they will continue to do so. As for the Greeks themselves, they take hospitality to be god-given, just like their ancient ancestors. To them, warmth and kindness are divine rights that everyone deserves. They remain as welcoming as ever, their spirit soaring and their doors and arms wide open.

And there’s another reason to travel to Greece now: The nation’s euro-zone challenges are keeping many visitors away, though we can’t imagine why. For you, that means fewer crowds at ancient sites that are typically (and notoriously) overcrowded. It also means that you’ll find much lower prices as you dine out on your own and shop for souvenirs. And speaking of Greek dining…

Fresh, Mediterranean Cuisine at Every Table

Greece is world famous for its simple food. The Mediterranean diet has certainly won praise for its proven health benefits. Local dishes exude the steadfast character of their origins – fava in Santorini, amygdalota in Mykonos, cheese pie with honey in Crete. But no matter where you visit, you’ll encounter the pleasures of freshly baked breads and a bounty of vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and zucchinis. To Greeks, food is a celebration best served as saganaki, a fried cheese; souvlaki, grilled meat on a skewer; moussaka, a meat and eggplant casserole; and fried octopus – all enhanced with that crisp Greek olive oil. To wash it all down, uncork a bottle of an up and coming wine grown in the country’s diverse terroir. The flavors and notes of Greek wines is so unique that 72% of its vintages that were entered into the Decanter World Wine Awards received a prize, 3 of them gold and 50 of them silver.

Civilization’s Cradle

Just as Athens is the Cradle of Civilization, it is also the central focus of many trips to Greece. Its Acropolis stands gloriously atop its hill like a beacon in the Grecian sun, as if shining down upon the modern-day city that it shaped. So many elements of civilization were born here—democracy, philosophy, arts—that it’s impossible to not be moved by a simple stroll among its temples and past its masterfully preserved Parthenon. Much of the site and its relics (as well as artifacts from Greek antiquity worldwide) are beautifully illuminated by a visit to the National Archaeological Museum. Indeed, it is considered one of the great museums of the world.

The legacy of the ancients lives far and wide, of course. But it’s especially poignant to witness the houses of democracy in the city of its birth, from the President’s residence to Constitution Square. And when it’s time for a relaxing stroll, the intimate streets of the shop-lined Plaka district at the base of Acropolis Hill invite you to explore.

The Pleasures of the Peloponnese 

A 19th-century engineering marvel separates the mainland from the Peloponnese Peninsula. The Corinth Canal, which opened in 1893, was literally carved out of solid rock. It had long been a dream of the ancients to connect the Gulf of Corinth and the Saronic Gulf; construction efforts date as far back as the 1st century AD. Today, the sculpted gorge is sheer-faced and dramatic.

The rustic Peloponnese Peninsula—to the west of metropolitan Athens—boasts a rich past of its own. Perhaps most famously, the first Olympic Games were held here, in Olympia. They were first staged in honor of the god Zeus, whose temple is still impressive despite that it lies in ruins. Nearby, the hillside city of Nauplion, with its stunning setting on the azure waters of the Argolic Gulf, was the capital of the First Hellenic Republic and a coveted city of many royal houses. Its cobbled streets, stone buildings, and multi-hued shutters date back centuries. Two castles add to its scenic splendor: The Venetian Bourtzi sits in the middle of the harbor and the hilltop Palamidi offers dramatic views of the town. In the second millennium BC, however, it was Mycenae that held sway over southern Greece. This major center of ancient civilization was defended by a solid stone fortress whose ruins whisper of sieges past.

Stunning Places of Worship and Wonder

North of the Peloponnese, Delphi attracted countless devout worshipers in ancient times. Legend recalls that a high priestess delivered prophecies here in a highly agitated state. It was believed that the gods were speaking through her, but today scientists suspect it was the vapors rising from a chasm below the temple that put her in an altered state. Today, Delphi still inspires awe, albeit more from its natural setting than from its incantations. This vast complex includes the Temple of Apollo, the Delphi and Tholos temples and a huge amphitheater—all of it surrounded by soaring mountain slopes.

More sources of inspiration are perched high on sandstone pillars in the town of Kalambaka in Greece’s central plains. Here, the six Eastern Orthodox monasteries of Meteora (translated as “in the heavens above”) are perched atop naturally formed rock towers averaging 1,000 feet above sea level. When they were originally built starting in the 14th century, they could only be reached by a harrowing climb up a rope ladder. These incredible structures must be seen to be believed.

The Aegean of Your Dreams

The Greek Islands find their way into every traveler’s dreams. Blue church domes and rustic windmills rise from a cluster of whitewashed villages that cling to hillsides. Sleepy cobbled streets lead to inviting squares and cafés where you can while away an afternoon over grape leaves and ouzo. Time slows down in the Aegean, and Gate 1’s island itineraries help you do the same in a magnificent setting, from the glittering Cyclades to the historic Dodecanese archipelagos.

The small island of Mykonos could be the most famed of the Greek Islands, thanks to its iconic windmills and blue-domed churches. Along the coast and amidst its hilly interior, white villages with blue doorways and rounded, thatched-roof windmills dot the landscape. Its labyrinthine tiny streets are a delight to explore and its sandy white beaches were surely made for basking.

Santorini is one of the most romantic islands. Its volcanic origins have given it beaches of white, red, or black sand. It is truly an otherworldly landscape of dramatic rock formations and lunar-like terrain. Its fascinating Bronze Age archeological site of Akrotiri opened recently, giving fascinating insight into primitive life here. Surprisingly, Santorini is one of Greece’s most prolific wine producers, as you’ll learn if you visit a local winery.

Vineyards also dot the landscape of Paros. All varieties of beaches line this pretty island’s shores, from tiny hidden bays to long swathes of golden sand. Gentle, terraced vine-laden hills and olive groves undulate over the island. The vibrant blue of Naoussa Bay plays host to fishing boats in cheery colors, a lovely sight against the waterside whitewash of the village.

Crete stands as the largest and most diverse of the Greek Islands. In addition to endless beauty and stunning beaches, tiny villages and agrarian settlements hold fast to tradition here. Medieval fortresses lord over the coast. Snow-covered peaks spill toward dramatic gorges that pour mountain-fed water into the sea. Crete is also home to large cities brimming with rich culture. But its historic touch-point is Knossos, an ancient palace complex dating to 1900 BC. This remarkable site is considered the oldest city in all of Europe. According to legend, King Minos kept his mythical son Minotaur in a labyrinth here.

These four islands offer just a taste of the Aegean’s magnificence. Select Gate 1 itineraries also call on the Cyclades Islands of Milos, Syros and Ios and the Dodecanese Islands of Patmos, Kos and Rhodes, where a beautifully preserved medieval city and the sprawling Grand Masters Palace overlook the glimmering sea. You can also explore the islands of Samos and Chios, semi-autonomous islands off the Turkish coast with their own brand of Aegean beauty and rich history.

So Many Ways to Experience Greece with Gate 1 Travel

A country as diverse as Greece opens itself up to limitless exploration. Gate 1 offers an array of travel styles so you can take in the rich and colorful Aegean culture your way. Our classic Escorted Tours showcase the best of the country for you, with a generous array of inclusions and the services of a local Greek Tour Manager. For the free-spirited, choose one of our Independent Vacations, which provide your basic necessities like flights and hotels and leave you to follow your own whims.

If the magical Greek Islands call to you, choose an itinerary that combines land touring with overnight accommodations either on a small ship or on a large Norwegian Cruise Lines cruise ship, exploring additional destinations as wide-reaching as Venice, Florence and Rome. And if you’d rather rub elbows with locals, some of our hotel-based trips let you island-hop on local ferries, for a truly authentic experience.

The Perfect Time to See Greece Is Now

The timeless antiquities, spectacular beauty and warm welcomes of Greece are to be savored. And with fewer crowds visiting its most iconic sites, you can do just that in a relaxed and hospitable atmosphere. Join us in 2016 and experience it all for yourself, at the value you’d expect, with Gate 1 Travel.

Join Gate 1 Travel in Greece! Follow these links to our exciting Greece Tours and Greek Island Cruises. Or call to reserve, 1-800-682-3333!

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Raise a Glass to the Wines of France & Spain

on January 8, 2016

“Wine cheers the sad, revives the old, inspires the young, makes weariness forget his toil, wrote Lord Byron, who was not only famed as a poet, but a traveler, carouser, and bon vivant. He came to this opinion glass by glass, having sipped his way across Europe, visiting the vineyards of France and the bodegas of Spain alike.

French vintners have been perfecting the art for some 2,000 years, creating the largest wine economy in the world. Spain may have a younger viticulture, but it boasts the highest percentage of land dedicated solely to vineyards of any nation on earth. And both countries are passionate about the wines they make.

Rioja

Over the millennia, rulers as diverse as Visigoths, Moorish invaders, and Napoleonic troops have claimed the fertile landscape of La Rioja for themselves. Today it is an autonomous province under Spain’s banner, a kingdom within a kingdom.

A sweeping mountainous plateau marked by seven plunging valleys and ribboned by the ebro and Oja Rivers, La Rioja is a land where geography and climate have conspired to favor winemaking. The mountains, covered in forests of oak, beech, pine, and juniper, offer vineyards protection from the fierce winds common to northern Spain, and help to moderate the climate.

Since at least the 9th century, when monks began tending vines, winemaking has been part of the local culture here, but it wasn’t until 1902 that Rioja was formally recognized as a wine variety, and not till the end of the 20th century that it was both awarded a certificate of origin (which guarantees its provenance) and then given the highest classification Spain allows.

Though best known for its reds, white and rose riojas are also available. experts describe classic Rioja wines as bold and complex, with unmistakable cherry and vanilla notes. What makes a Rioja so full-bodied is the employment of oak barrel-aging techniques inspired by the wineries of Bordeaux. Some Riojas are aged up to five years in barrel and bottle before their release. The result is a wine imposing enough to stand up to meat and strong cheeses, and, if you ask a Spaniard, to challenge any wine France can produce.

Bordeaux

However, Bordeaux – the elegant “Little Paris” on the banks of the Gironde River – feels no threat from other wine regions. With a wine industry dating back to the 8th century, Bordeaux blossomed fully in the wake of the marriage of eleanor of Aquitaine to the future King Henry II. In the 18th century, as it became the world’s wine capital, the city added 5,000 buildings of such beauty that Victor Hugo compared it to a metropolis-sized version of Versailles. In fact, “Little Paris” was the model for its (now) bigger sister: Napoleon used the building boom for inspiration in revitalizing the City of Lights.

As Bordeaux became a major port city, merchants were able to ferry the wine to the Netherlands and Great Britain, creating a global demand. Still the epicenter of the wine industry to this day, Bordeaux’s 13,000 grape growers and 10,000 chateaux together produce nearly a billion bottles of wine every year.

Like Riojas, the wines of Bordeaux vary by color, though it is the array of deep, rich reds for which the region is best known. Bordeaux reds blend two wines-Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot-and each vineyard determines the proportions. Vineyards on the left bank of the Gironde are Cabernet heavy, while those across the water favor the Merlot. Both yield earthy reds, good with lamb, beef, truffles, and tomatoes. The whites here, drier than the reds, are excellent with seafood, including the sweeter varieties, which also shine with cheese.

St. Emilion

Older still than Bordeaux and further north, St. Emilion is one of the most romantic cities in France. Settled since prehistoric times, it is best known for its medieval architecture, with steep, narrow streets winding between limestone buildings. Some of the streets continue below ground into tunnels and catacombs, once home to the hermetic monk for whom the city is named.

Emilion was originally from Breton, where he was credited with a number of miracles. His acclaim drew attacks from the Benedictine community and he fled south, hiding in the underground cavern where he would live the rest of his life. Pilgrims began to seek him out as confessor and as the catacombs became a destination, an entire religious community arose.

Within a century, the town of St. Emilion was making wines commercially, expanding private vineyards that were planted a good 700 years before. When the Santiago de Compostela through France became a major pilgrimage route in the 11th century, a robust wine industry tempted visitors to stop here. Though both the Hundred Years’ War and The War of the Religions both stalled the region, the wine trade never ceased completely; in fact, wine sales fueled St. Emilion’s rebirth in the 18th century.

Today, it is known for its reds, which most often blend Merlot and Cabernet Franc, with a few wineries adding Cabernet Sauvignon to the mix. Reaching maturity-and your table-faster than the Bordeaux vintages, St. Emilion wines stand up well to game birds, salmon, and nutty cheeses like tomme de savoie or reblochon.

Though you may now enjoy the best wines of both lands in the comfort of your own home, those who have followed in Byron’s footsteps to Europe know the difference it makes to savor these regional creations right where they’re made. Lift a fine Bordeaux to your lips while the sun sets over the countryside, or inhale the heady bouquet of Rioja in a Spanish bodega. Drink them while on tour with Gate 1 Travel!

 

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Spain: Splendid Architecture, Sweeping History, Breathtaking Beauty

on January 7, 2016

Spain long held a strategic role as a link between North Africa and Europe. For centuries, anyone who controlled the Iberian peninsula held great commercial and political power; variously throughout history, Moors, Arabs, Christians and countless others knew this and called Spain their own. Still today, Spanish hills and plains embrace richly adorned citadels and Moorish influences can be seen coast to coast.

But still … you have to wonder if they were all just in it for the gorgeous real estate. After all, Spain boasts a very singular beauty: central plateaus rise to the snow-capped splendor of the Pyrenees in the north and the Sierra Nevadas toward the south. Vineyards and olive groves blanket the famed “plains of Spain.” Mediterranean beaches invite long strolls and refreshing dips. One can only envy Don Quixote’s wanderings across such a rhapsodic land.

The masterpieces of those former kingdoms still stand – fortresses, cathedrals, and citadels of staggering scale. And today Spain overflows with thrilling culture, colorful history, and a diverse natural beauty that takes your breath away. So we invite you to raise a glass of sangria, cava, or rioja … to a spellbinding land lauded by Hemingway and immortalized by Cervantes … a land where a flamenco-fueled fiesta is sure to follow close on the heels of an afternoon siesta.

The Beating Heart of Spain

You might call Madrid “el corazón de España” – the heart of Spain – the central point and capital from which Spanish life and culture flow. Its colossal Royal Palace, on the vast Plaza Oriente, was built on the site of a former Alcazar, or castle, in the mid-1700s by Philip V and Carlos III. Paired with the adjacent Almudena Cathedral, it is a spectacular site. The Plaza de España – with its skyscrapers and towering memorial to Cervantes – is no less impressive. Art lovers flock to El Prado, the huge repository of Spanish art featuring the works of Goya, Velazquez, Picasso, El Greco, and countless others.

History is palpable in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Segovia, north of Madrid. The Romanesque city has gone untouched for six centuries, but its most amazing site predates even that. The remarkably preserved Roman aqueduct stretches 2,700 feet long and – at its highest – 90 feet tall; it is a remarkable feat of ancient engineering, built without a dash of mortar. The city’s Jewish Quarter, or aljama as it was historically known, stands as testament to the city’s diverse past. The enormous Alcazar watches over it all from the city’s edge.

Toledo is considered by lovers of Spanish history and art a national monument, a rich canvas of all the elements that have shaped today’s Spain. Both Moorish and Christian architecture survive here, having had little influence on one another, a rarity in Spain. Steep, cobbled streets offer endless (though strenuous!) strolls. Its St. Tome Church evokes the romance of the high-style Gothic era, and the city’s many museums have earned it the moniker, “The Museum City.”

Farther west, historic Salamanca rises on the plains like a medieval crown. This breathtaking city is home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, founded in 1134, and was long a major intellectual center of Europe. Still today, it exudes a lively student vibe and café scene. But the city’s most impressive sight is its massive cathedral that dominates the skyline. You could consider it two cathedrals in one: the Old Cathedral was built in the 12th century and the “New” four centuries later. Together, they are an imposing echo of the power of Christianity in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

To the North, Sample World-Class Art and Wine

The Mediterranean climate of the province of Rioja – on par with southern France and Italy’s Tuscany – creates a prime wine-growing environment. Vineyards and bodegas, or tasting rooms, dot a landscape of rolling valleys and towering mountain ranges. We find it the perfect northern idyll for its wine-tasting opportunities.

Perhaps the north’s most famous city is Bilbao, linked to the Bay of Biscay by the Nervion River. Frank Gehry’s 1997 Guggenheim Museum might have put this city on the international map – a wondrous work of glass, titanium, and limestone – but Bilbao’s Old Quarter, or Casco Viejo, is a fantastic preservation of the medieval city’s original seven parallel streets.

Live the Spain of Your Dreams in Andalusia

For many, Andalusia – the sun-kissed southern province on the Mediterranean – is the real Spain: flamenco dancers, matadors, bougainvillea spilling over wrought-iron balconies in white villages, and the Alhambra. The truth is, Andalusia is only a slice of this scintillating country – but a glorious, historic, and festive one.

Perhaps no other city conveys Spain’s diverse past as powerfully as Córdoba, once the most populous city in the world and the intellectual center of medieval Europe. Its Jewish Quarter and synagogue are marvelously authentic pockets of history that were once strolled by the great Jewish philosopher Maimonides. The marriage of Muslim and Christian is poignant in the massive mosque-cathedral of La Mezquita – also known as the Mosque of the Caliphs. Its forest of 856 columns of jasper, onyx, marble, and granite is an unforgettable sight. Predating all of this is the still-standing first-century Roman bridge over the Guadalquivir River.

Seville, home of the flamenco, is arguably one of Spain’s great cities. Its cathedral is the largest Gothic building on earth. Christopher Columbus, one of the country’s great heroes, is entombed here. This, too, was once a mosque; when Spaniards razed it, they couldn’t bring themselves to tear down its lovely minaret. So they topped it with a five-story bell tower that shifts in the breeze and called it La Giralda, roughly translated as “something that turns.” Nearby, the Santa Cruz Quarter – the Jewish Quarter in medieval times – is a labyrinthine network of intimate warrens. A more recent symbol of the city, the Plaza de España, is a graceful, tile-adorned work of perfection, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition.

Any visitor to Granada will understand why Boabdil, its last Moorish king, wept when he lost his city to Ferdinand and Isabella. Indeed, its magnificent setting and palatial fortress brings a tear to the eye of many a visitor. The palace overlooks today’s modern city, but within its walls kings and caliphs savored a world of their own: cavernous rooms, ornate courtyards, and extensive gardens overlooking snow-capped peaks.

Catch Spain’s Mediterranean Breezes

The resort town of Torremolinos provides a taste of Spanish beach life. Mediterranean sands and the city’s delightful beachside promenade are right across the street from your hotel, and the town’s shops in the upper town invite an afternoon of browsing. It all makes for a relaxed stay, but truth be told, relaxing may be the last thing on your mind when you’re tempted with a day trip Morocco, right across the Strait of Gibraltar. If you opt for our tour including a three-night stay on the Costa del Sol, there’ll be time to embark on a ferry and explore the intoxicating streets of Tangier, touring its colorful medina and perusing the treasures and trinkets of the Grand Bazaar.

Farther east lies the city where the famous Spanish dish of paella was invented by fishermen. Fed by Mediterranean moisture and the waters of the Turia River, Valencia is Spain’s Garden City. Its most historic buildings – aside from its ornate City Hall – huddle around a 14th-century cathedral. But perhaps its most incredibly preserved structure is the Torres Serranos, or City Gates, that have greeted travelers for thousands of years. A decidedly more modern addition is the Arts and Science City, a massive and futuristic complex of entertainment and museums.

Barcelona stands as Spain’s jewel on the Mediterranean – though residents of this Catalonia capital have long advocated for secession. No matter your opinion on the matter, the city is a vibrant metropolis of long boulevards, hopping cafes, ocean breezes, and surreal echoes of its native son Antoni Gaudí. For a true taste of Catalan culture, there’s no place like Las Ramblas, the pedestrian zone lined with cafes, tapas bars, and shops. Even more of a draw, however, is La Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s perennially unfinished cathedral. This soaring masterpiece – and the charming structures within his vast Parc Guell – look torn from the pages of a storybook. Outside of town, Montjuic Hill overlooks the city. The hill saw intense competition at the 1992 Summer Olympics in the Olympic Stadium, still in use today.

Take in All of Iberia – Add Portugal!

You’ve long heard of Portugal as the launching pad for the Age of Discoveries. You can discover this beautiful nation rich in tradition for yourself when you choose a Gate 1 itinerary that helps you explore beyond Spain’s borders.

From Portugals’ shores, courageous mariners set sail to claim new lands, map the world, and develop global trade. Much of Lisbon’s wealth was built on these endeavors, as its palaces, monasteries, and monuments show. And in the city’s Alfama district, strains of Fado music spill into narrow lanes. Farther north, on the Douro River, the city of Porto has witnessed a long history of wine making – beginning with the ports produced in the nearby Douro River Valley, the world’s first demarcated wine zone.

There are so many reasons to visit Spain with Gate 1 Travel. Rich history, magnificent landscapes, stunning architecture and opulent palaces might top your list. Gate 1 Travel gives you another reason – a value that you simply won’t find anywhere else. Join us!

Follow this link to our exciting Spain Tours. Or call to reserve, 1-800-682-3333!

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Renaissance History. Soaring Beauty. It Could Only Be Italy.

on August 7, 2015

Endless romance. Unrivaled food and wine. A rich history of art, religion and civilizations that spans the ages. And breathtaking panoramas from mountain lakes and rolling hills to sweeping and rocky coasts.

This is Italy, one of the world’s most captivating and mesmerizing destinations. There is so much to see and experience here! And when you trust your Italian journey to Gate 1 Travel, we’ll help you make the most of your time. Our Escorted Tours offer the most efficient way to see the highlights of Italy. Our motor coaches whisk you from city to city, so you don’t need to worry about how you’ll get around. Our Tour Managers know the most thrilling and fascinating sites to show you, and are eager to enlighten you about their country’s most beloved treasures. And as you arrive at some of Italy’s most visited museums and landmarks, you’ll bypass the long lines, thanks to our pre-purchased entry.

Welcome to Gate 1’s Italy!

Italy’s Historic Centers: Rome, Venice & Florence

PantheonJust as all roads lead to Rome, any discussion of Italy must point to its historic streets. It is, without question, one of the world’s most enriching and fascinating cities. Here, ancient monuments heralding the days of the Roman Empire mingle easily with couture shops and buzzing Vespas. For 2,000 years, the center of Rome has been the mighty Coliseum. Once able to host 80,000 spectators, this was where Romans gathered to witness gladiatorial combat and contests between men and beasts.

Today, Romans and visitors alike are more likely to gather in the city’s charming piazzas. These open plazas embody public art at its finest, adorned with finely sculpted fountains carved by some of history’s greatest artists, from Bernini to della Porta. Piazza Navona is one of the most magnificent. Nearby, on the Piazza della Rotunda, the Pantheon soars to the skies, built by ancient Romans to honor the gods. Its revolutionary dome – still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome – is a masterwork of Roman engineering that has never been duplicated.

The city of Rome embraces another city that boasts an equally astonishing history and soaring architectural and artistic marvels: Vatican City. Surely, St. Peter’s Basilica and its sprawling square is one of the most moving pilgrimage sites in all of Christendom. The Vatican Museum boasts its own sacred calling card: Michelangelo’s The Last Judgment, painstakingly painted on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. In total, the artist painted more than 5,000 square feet of frescoes here. Today, they remain a wonder of rich color and sumptuous detail.

The Roman Empire held great sway throughout Europe for many centuries. Another kingdom – much smaller but certainly no less influential – had its center on the northern Adriatic Sea. The Venetian Empire ruled much of the Adriatic region for over 1,000 years from its seat of power on an island just off Italy. Today, with its car-free medieval warrens, endless network of romantic canals, and Old World ambiance, Venice offers more than a spectacular journey back in time; it is a stunning repository of the empire’s prosperity. The glittering domes of St. Mark’s Basilica watch over its namesake square, which Napoleon once called “the drawing room of Europe” for its grace and beauty. The nearby Doge’s Palace was the empire’s center. Here, opulent chambers recall the lifestyles of the rich and regal. And the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prison, affords the final view that convicted criminals enjoyed (and “sighed” over) before they were locked away.

The city of Venice is just one of 117 islands that dot the Venetian Lagoon. On the island of Murano, an age-old tradition of glass-blowing lives on. These talented artisans are descendants of the finest glass blowers in history. Their workshops were all moved here centuries ago to prevent the risk of fire on the main island. Its streets and shops are a delight to explore.

Like Rome and Venice, Florence was also an incredibly powerful city. Certainly, the Medici family enjoyed its share of wealth and land – and some would say strong-arming – from the halls of their Palazzo Vecchio in the city center. But Florence is more known as the birthplace of an innovative and creative movement that swept Europe by storm, and ultimately changed the course of the world: the Renaissance. The city, dotted with grand buildings, sculptures, gardens, and the astonishing Duomo of the Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore, is an open-air museum of the period that defined it. Michelangelo’s David is here – the original in the Accademia of Fine Arts and a replica in the Piazza della Signoria. And the medieval-era Ponte Vecchio, lined with jewelry and leather shops, spans the Arno River.

Of course, the Renaissance was not confined to Florence. The creative brilliance of the age spread all over Italy and Europe. One of the most breathtaking places to observe the period’s architecture at its most spiritual is in Pisa in the Piazza dei Miracoli. Here, a great trinity of white-marble buildings – the Pisa Cathedral, the Baptistery and the famous Leaning Tower – comprises one of Italy’s great accomplishments. The entire site is considered sacred by the Catholic Church.

Hilltop Wonders Amidst Natural Beauty

Florence and Pisa are the beating hearts of Tuscany, one of Italy’s most breathtaking regions of rolling hills and sprawling vineyards. And they provide just a hint of the country’s Renaissance and natural splendor.

Take the town of Montecatini, for instance. You can literally soak in the beauty here, thanks to its extensive spa facilities fed by thermal springs. Travelers have long come here to “take the waters,” and you may do the same during your free time. Lucca, too, is a gem of medieval architecture. Its spectacularly preserved 17th-century wall is still fully intact and today is home to a public park that’s ideal for strolling and taking in amazing views of olive and fig groves. Within the city, the original Roman street layout reveals layer upon layer of history.

Of Italy’s hilltop wonders, one of its most striking is Assisi. Rising from the countryside of Umbria, the city gloriously straddles a hilltop; from afar, it looks more like a fortress than a major center of the Franciscan Order. The order’s founder, Saint Francis of Assisi, is known as the patron saint of animals, nature and the environment. From its hillside basilica, you can imagine that he would have appreciated the heavenly view.

Equally uplifting vistas can be found at Lago di Como, or Lake Como, in the north of Italy. Long a destination for jet-setters and home to many celebrities, this vast and glistening lake is surrounded by cypress trees, earth-toned villas, lush gardens and spectacular mountain views. It is pure pleasure simply to be here and stroll the scenic lakeside promenade. The quaint village of Bellagio is just a short cruise away, called “The Pearl of Lake Como.” The historic city of Verona – with its remarkably preserved “Arena” amphitheater from Old Rome and its charming balcony on which Shakespeare’s Juliet is said to have swooned over her famous suitor – is also nearby.

Few regions exude as much as beauty as Italy’s western coastal regions. Cinque Terre – a necklace of five villages clinging to the cliffs of the Italian Riviera – is one of the world’s most enchanting destinations. Untouched by the commercial world, the villages can only be accessed by foot or animal trail or by a 19th-century railway. Farther south, Sorrento – famed for its limoncello lemon liqueur and its sweeping views of the Gulf of Naples – is the gateway to the stunning Amalfi Coast. This region is home to one of the world’s most scenic drives, tracing dramatic and rocky shores to quaint seaside villages and colorful houses that seem to spill into the sea, from Positano to Ravello.

Sicilian Splendor

Sicily is very much a part of Italy, yet this autonomous island retains its own rustic and lively character. Some have called it the “unspoiled Italy.” You’re sure to call it magnificent.

All things Sicilian converge in the capital, Palermo. The island has been a crossroads of civilizations for centuries and countless cultures have left their mark here – from the hilltop Norman Cathedral in Monreale to the 12th-century Byzantine mosaics within. Today, Palermo’s Old Town is a stunning blend of architectural styles, many of them represented in the Palermo Cathedral, which was built and enhanced over many centuries.

Greeks were among the many people who settled in Sicily, and they left behind a spectacular sampling of their culture in Agrigento. Here, in the Valley of the Temples, are the best preserved temples outside mainland Greece, including the Temple of Juno and incredibly intact Temple of Concordia. Remarkably preserved Roman villas are nearby, providing unique insight into the lives of the empire after it conquered the island.

Taormina, a charming city of gracious squares and structures spanning the medieval and baroque ages, enjoys one of the best views of all the cities in Sicily. Perched on a rocky plateau, it overlooks the Bay of Naxos and the Ionian Sea to the east and the rising cone of Mt. Etna to the west. Etna, the most active volcano in Europe, is a thrill to explore; we follow one of its roads up black volcanic slopes to a safe zone at the Silvestri Craters. In Taormina itself, there are more remains of ancient Greece, this time in the spectacular Greek Theater. The preservation of its stadium and its walls is equaled only by the coastal vista from its hillside setting.

Catania also sits in the shadow of Mt. Etna. Home of the island’s first university, it stood on par with Florence for its cultural and artistic contributions during the Renaissance. Much of the town was destroyed during a 1693 earthquake, and so today it boasts a more baroque flavor, with wide-open piazzas and colorful markets.

Join Gate 1 Travel in Italy to Make the Most of Your Visit, and Your Budget

Earlier, we talked about how Gate 1 provides the most efficient way to see Italy. But visiting Italy with Gate 1 Travel isn’t only about making the best use of your time. It’s also about stretching your travel dollar.

Our fully escorted tours are packed with features and events that showcase Italy’s culture and introduce you to its people during wine tastings, cooking classes, and farm visits. You could never arrange experiences like these on your own. Plus, we have longstanding contacts with all our hotels, which gives us unmatched buying power. You’ll be surprised not only by the central location of your accommodations throughout Italy, but also by their quality and comfort. Simply put, there is no other way to experience Italy to its absolute fullest.

To see the best of Italy at the best value, call Gate 1 Travel!

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Croatia: Where Culture Runs Deep and Coastal Beauty Reigns

on August 7, 2015

Red-roofed medieval cities huddle on Adriatic shores. A thousand emerald islands unfurl along a sparkling coast like a shining necklace. A forested mountainside is awash in a mesmerizing network of lakes and waterfalls. Croatia is overlooked by many travelers to Europe, and that’s a shame, because we think it’s one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It’s also a gateway to even more Adriatic splendor that, when combined into one sweeping trip, introduce you to a vastly diverse range of culture and beauty.

Historic Cultural Capitals Glitter on a Magical Coast

Long the capital of the Ragusa Republic, which rivaled the Venetian Empire in power and influence, the glittering city of Dubrovnik (above) has been called the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” It’s easy to see how this historic city gained the nickname. Jutting into the Adriatic on a limestone promontory and protected by a fully intact medieval wall, it is a city like no other. Brimming with Gothic and Renaissance treasures – including the splendid Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace and Franciscan Monastery – this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a delight to explore. One sure way to get a sense of its breadth is to climb the stairs to the ramparts that surround it; Dubrovnik’s 800-year old wall completely encircles the city and affords magnificent views over medieval rooftops and the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Once you witness this magnificent setting, you’ll come to understand why one of the Roman Empire’s most powerful leaders wanted to live out his days here. Emperor Diocletian chose Split as his retirement destination in 305 AD, and had a grand palace built here to accommodate his post-imperial court. Today, the ancient Roman palace – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – serves as Split’s marketplace and its city center. To be sure, the passing of the ages has taken its toll on some of its structures, but many residents of Split make their homes and run their businesses within its walls. It’s remarkable to think that 2,000 people still call the palace grounds home.

Croatia’s capital of Zagreb has long been a crossroads of culture and commerce, and remains so today. It is the nation’s most important hub, the point where Southeastern Europe and the Mediterranean are linked to Western and Northern Europe. Amidst its modern-day bustle, however, the past reigns supreme. The city’s historic Upper Town is dominated by the twin-spired Zagreb Cathedral on Kaptol Square, the most monumental ecclesiastic building southeast of the Alps. On Krvavi Most, St. Mark’s Church, with two coats of arms emblazoned on its roof, and the Jesuit St. Catherine’s Church, built when followers of that religion were invited here by the Croatian Parliament in the 17th century, are also impressive.

In the north, charming Opatija lavishly reclines along Adriatic shores near the tip of the Gulf of Kvarner. A stroll along its seaside promenade, the Lungo Mare, lets you soak in the small city’s ambiance and lovely setting. Like the Istrian Peninsula to which it leads, Opatija has held many allegiances over the centuries – Austro-Hungarian, Italian, Yugoslavian and Croatian – making for a fascinating cultural blend. A side trip along the peninsula hugs the Adriatic coast, revealing Pula’s remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater, where performances are still held today, and Rovinj with its stunning Venetian bell towers and delightful cobbled streets. The historic Old Town of Zadar, too, has its robust share of history, dotted with an old Roman forum, medieval churches, Habsburg elegance and a picture-perfect seafront.

Rustic Charms Amidst Spellbinding Beauty

The cultural and historic riches of these cities take center stage amidst Croatia’s gorgeous coast and inland mountains. But in some corners of this spectacular country, it’s the natural beauty that gets all the attention, and rightly so. There are eight national parks in Croatian, and eleven locally designated nature parks.

Inland, the Plitvice Lakes are among the world’s most magnificent natural wonders. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these 16 lakes terrace their way down a hillside high in the Dinaric Mountains, each one connected to the last via cascading waterfalls, caves, springs and chutes. The highest falls tumble some 230 feet. All told, the string of lakes is almost five miles long, and over their lush course the waters fall a total of 430 feet. Raised wooden footpaths lead you through this spectacular wonderland.

Just off Croatia, more than 1,200 islands line the Dalmatian Coast like an emerald necklace.Korcula is one of the most stunning. There is a lot to savor here, including Renaissance palaces and the resplendent St. Mark’s Cathedral. Stonemasons, shipbuilders, and sea merchants all helped put this island on the map and injected money and glory into its buildings and institutions. Aside from its rich culture of architecture and maritime endeavors, Korcula and its surrounding islands also boast a proud musical heritage. Its Klape singers, who indulge in a style of a cappella singing, carry tunes that date back to the 1800s. You have to wonder – once you lay your eyes on this magnificent Adriatic setting – why Marco Polo would have wanted to leave his home island to embark upon a quarter-century of globe-trotting. But leave it he did.

Hvar is another enchanting island outpost. The island once served as a crossroads for trade between the Adriatic and Mediterranean. Its Old Town and cozy marina are a delight to explore. Hvar has consistently been voted among the world’s Top 10 most beautiful islands in the world by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler, thanks to its pristine beaches, dramatic karst landscape, vast vineyards, rocky shores and lavender fields.

Explore More of the Adriatic – from Slovenia to Albania – with Gate 1 Travel!

The beauty of traveling to the Adriatic with Gate 1 is the variety of itineraries you can choose from – all at the unmatched value you’d expect. With alpine Slovenia to the north and the rich traditional cultures of Albania to the south, this is one of the most diverse corners of Europe.

Beyond the Tuscan-like landscapes of the Istrian Peninsula, Croatia’s terrain rises into Slovenia. Here, the intimately sized capital of Ljubljana offers endless architectural splendor from its Austro-Hungarian era and an open-air market selling huckleberry syrup and flavored honeys. Its famed Triple Bridge, three side-by-side spans, arches across the Ljubljanica River, connecting the medieval city to its more modern half.

Nearby, the dramatic heights of the magnificent, snow-capped Julian Alps pierce the skies. Here lies what is perhaps Slovenia’s most splendid vista: Lake Bled. This alpine lake with a glass-like, azure surface enchants. A tiny island rests at its center, crowned by the lovely Assumption of Mary church with its wonderful collection of frescoes and its belfry tower. On the lake’s shores, the 11th-century Bled Castle overlooks the waters from a dramatic rocky perch, as moody and stunning as any fairytale abode.

To the south, historic Albania and Montenegro beg to be explored. The crowds are thin and the history is rich in these fascinating countries.

Albania’s capital, Tirana, is a treasure trove of culture and monuments. Its Et’hem Bey Mosque is a symbol of the people’s courage; closed during communist rule, it reopened in 1991 without endorsement from the government. Ten thousand worshippers attended services that day … with no interference. With its fresco-like depictions of trees, waterfalls and nature, it is a rarity in Islamic art. The Palace of Culture, a gathering place for the community, and the National History Museum, which traces Albania’s past, are also proud emblems.

A different vibe pulses in the Adriatic country of Montenegro. Here, legend says that the Moraca Monastery was built in 1252 using a mysterious yellow stone from some faraway place. But there’s no mystery to the beauty that unfolds in Durmitor National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the deep gorges, babbling rivers, dense pine forests and pristine lakes are among the most breathtaking sites you’ll see. Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, boasts gracious green spaces and modern, post-war buildings, and Cetinje is a gem of culture and heritage with beautiful architecture dating to the 1700s. And no visit to Montenegro is complete without witnessing the spectacle of medieval Kotor, tucked between mountains and its glorious bay. The UNESCO World Heritage Site at the end of southern Europe’s only fjord is surrounded by remarkably walls that date back to the Venetian Republic.

Throughout your Gate 1 trip to the Adriatic, local guides introduce you to the countries they love so much. And we work hard to ensure that you’ll end each discovery-rich day in accommodations whose comfort far surpasses our price tag.

We invite you to put Croatia and the Adriatic on your “must-see” list! Call or click to reserve your space today!

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