Introduction to Venice from the Water

It was due to the threat from aggressive invaders that Venetians originally retreated to the Lagoon and created a safe city haven of islands and canals. It thus seems apposite to stay on a boat with easy access to central Venice, especially as this avoids the high costs associated with Venice’s hotels. Our well-located mooring at Riva Sette Martiri commands fine views across to San Giorgio Maggiore and Santa Maria della Salute, allows easy access to Castello and is just 15 minutes’ walk along the waterfront to St. Mark’s Square.

The optional sightseeing programme encompasses the main points of St. Mark’s Square and explores local churches revealing some of Venice’s great artistic heritage. Chioggia is a small, waterside port of Roman origin and once second only to Venice in the region – with architectural styles ranging from the Byzantine and Gothic to Baroque.

Itinerary

Day 1 Fly from Dublin to Venice. Transfer to the vessel at St. Basilio Maritime Station. Afternoon at leisure before sailing to Riva Sette Martiri for the night. Enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner on board.

Day 2 An optional morning walking tour includes the Bridge of Sighs and an interior visit of the Doges’ Palace (ticket also valid for the art collection of Museo Correr). At lunchtime, enjoy a cruise northwards through the lagoon viewing the islands of Torcello, Burano and Murano from the comfort of the MS Michelangelo. Return to Venice with time for independent exploration.

Day 3 ‘Hidden Venice’ is an optional morning walking tour, which explores the lesser known Castello area, visiting the church of San Giovanni e Paolo containing works by Giovanni Bellini. Afternoon free. An optional evening of music at Palazzo Zeno, the former home of a Venetian Doge.

Day 4 Morning cruise southwards through the Venice Lagoon to the fishing port of Chioggia, with free time in Chioggia. Cruise back to Venice and moor at St. Basilio Maritime Station. Alternatively, take an optional half-day tour to Padua including a visit to the Basilica of St. Anthony and a scenic drive back to Venice via the Brenta Canal. Buffet lunch on board. Free time for final exploration of Venice.

Day 5 Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Venice airport for the return flight to Dublin.

Price inclusions

• Flight Dublin to Venice
• Airport transfer to the port
• 4 nights accommodation onboard, based on 2 people sharing
• Full board basis, with drinks included at meals
• Transfer from the port to the airport
• Services of a tour manager for coach transfers and tours
• Flight Venice to Dublin
• Taxes and charges of €104

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Includes check in of 1 standard bag per cabin
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit €100 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)
• NO Single Supplement (lower deck cabin)
• Upper deck supplement €90 per cabin
• Lagoon View Supplement €90 per cabin
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares

Accommodation details

MS Michelangelo

The French-operated MS Michelangelo is a modern purpose-built vessel accommodating up to 156 passengers. The 78 main and upper deck cabins all have picture windows, private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, hairdryer and safe.

The public areas include a lounge, viewing deck and a one sitting restaurant with the cuisine that you would expect on board a French vessel.

Dates and Prices

55Club pricing is available to members of Citiescapes 55Club. For more information click here.

Date	Price		…….	55Club
06 Nov 2010	€659			€599

Introduction to Budapest

This Citiescapes City Break takes you to the delightful Hungarian capital of Budapest. During your Insiders Tour our guide will lead your exploration, showing you the well known sights, and some hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. You then have time to explore the wonderful Christmas Markets in this charming city.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly from Dublin to Budapest and transfer to your hotel, the 4 Star Mercure Metropol Hotel.

Day 2: Our experienced guide will lead your Insiders Walking Tour of Budapest, taking you to the main tourist sights, and to a few hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.

Day 3: Day at leisure. The delightful city of Budapest is a joy to explore, with many gems waiting to be discovered on both sides of the Danube, which flows through the heart of the city. The traditional Christmas Markets also add an enchanting festive quality to the city.

Day 4: Transfer from your hotel to the airport for the return flight.

Price inclusions

• Flight Dublin to Budapest
• Airport transfer to the hotel
• 3 nights accommodation in the 4 Star Mercure Metropol Hotel, based on 2 people sharing
• Bed and Breakfast basis
• Insiders Walking Tour of Budapest
• Transfer from the Hotel to the airport
• Services of a tour manager for coach transfers and tours
• Flight Budapest to Dublin
• Taxes and charges of €119

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Includes check in of 1 standard bag per couple
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit €100 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)
• Single Supplement €87
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares

Accommodation details

Mercure Metropol Hotel, Budapest

Mercure Metropol is situated in the city center with 130 air-conditioned rooms. Discover Budapest with cheap public transport, metro station is just 50 metres from the hotel. Museums, Sport Arena,railway station Keleti PU or downtown area are within walking distance.

Rooms:

• Airconditioning
• Minibar
• Telephone
• Radio in room
• Opening windows
• Direct dial telephone
• Work desk in all rooms
• Satellite/cable colour TV
• Manual temperature control
• Free access with phone card
• Web TV
• Wi-Fi in your room
• Pay per view channel(s)
• TV room service ordering

Dates and Prices

Date	Price
29 Nov 2010	€419
06 Dec 2010	€419

Introduction to Budapest

This Citiescapes City Break takes you to the delightful Hungarian capital of Budapest. During your Insiders Tour our guide will lead your exploration, showing you the well known sights, and some hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. You then have time to explore this charming city.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly from Dublin to Budapest and transfer to your hotel, the 4 Star Mercure Metropol Hotel.

Day 2: Our experienced guide will lead your Insiders Walking Tour of Budapest, taking you to the main tourist sights, and to a few hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.

Day 3: Day at leisure. The delightful city of Budapest is a joy to explore,with many gems waiting to be discovered on both sides of the Danube, which flows through the heart of the city.

Day 4: Transfer from your hotel to the airport for the return flight.

Price inclusions

• Flight Dublin to Budapest
• Airport transfer to the hotel
• 3 nights accommodation in the 4 Star Mercure Metropol Hotel, based on 2 people sharing
• Bed and Breakfast basis
• Insiders Walking Tour of Budapest
• Transfer from the Hotel to the airport
• Services of a tour manager for coach transfers and tours
• Flight Budapest to Dublin
• Taxes and charges of €119

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Includes check in of 1 standard bag per couple
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit €100 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)
• Single Supplement €87
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares

Accommodation details

Mercure Metropol Hotel, Budapest

Mercure Metropol is situated in the city center with 130 air-conditioned rooms. Discover Budapest with cheap public transport, metro station is just 50 metres from the hotel. Museums, Sport Arena,railway station Keleti PU or downtown area are within walking distance.

Rooms:

• Airconditioning
• Minibar
• Telephone
• Radio in room
• Opening windows
• Direct dial telephone
• Work desk in all rooms
• Satellite/cable colour TV
• Manual temperature control
• Free access with phone card
• Web TV
• Wi-Fi in your room
• Pay per view channel(s)
• TV room service ordering

Dates and Prices

Date	Price
08 Nov 2010	€419
29 Nov 2010	€419
06 Dec 2010	€419

Introduction to the Krakow Christmas Markets

This Citiescapes tour brings you to the city of Krakow, home to fabulous open air traditional Christmas Markets, located in the heart of the old town. Coupled with a tour to the stunning Wieliczka Saltmine, the “underground salt cathedral of Poland” this is a fantastic chance to visit a beautiful city and buy that ideal gift at the same time.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly Dublin to Krakow and transfer to your hotel. Rest of day at leisure.

Day 2: Tour to Wieliczka Saltmine, the “Underground Salt Cathedral of Poland”. Return to Krakow in the afternoon.

Day 3: Day at leisure. Explore the delightful Christmas Markets in the City, selling all kinds of traditional gifts, food and souvenirs.

Day 4: Collection from hotel and transfer to the airport. Return flight to Dublin.

Price inclusions

• Flight Dublin to Krakow as outlined above
• Airport transfer to your hotel
• 3 nights accommodation in the 3 star Wyspianski Hotel or Alexander Hotel based on 2 or 3 sharing
• Buffet breakfast each morning
• Guided tour to Wieliczka Saltmine
• Return transfer from your hotel to airport
• Flight Krakow to Dublin
• Services of a representative for coach transfers and tour
• Taxes and charges of €102

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Includes check in of 1 standard bag per couple
• Single room supplement €60 for the duration
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit €100 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)

Accommodation details

Wyspianski Hotel

After a complete modernization of the 40 year old building in 2003, the PTTK Wyspiański hotel received the 3 star category.The hotel ideally meets the needs of the tourist with its fantastic location right in the heart of Krakow..This is a large busy tourist hotel. The hotel has a restaurant and bar and due to the hotels prime location the lobby, restaurant and bar areas are constantly busy with tourists and locals alike.

Stanislaw Wyspianski, which The hotel is named after, was born on 15th January 1869 the outstanding artist painter, playwright and poet, interior and furniture designer linked his whole life to his beloved Kraków. Creator of well-known dramas which were shocking for the conscience of the nation, as well as the most famous “Wesele” (The Wedding), “Legenda” (The Legend), “Wyzwolene” (Liberation), “Noc Listopadowa” (November Night), he signed on permanently to the national output of Polish literature. We admire his polychromes and stained glass windows up to this day in the churches of Kraków – Holy Cross, Franciscan, Dominican as well as the church of Our Lady. He painted Kraków landscapes and portraits of those close to him, including outstanding artists of that epoch. The Kraków Museum in his name (www.muzeum.krakow.pl) has gathered together the greatest works of the artist of Polish modernism,

Hotel Wyspanski, Accommodation

Hotel has 158 single and twin bedrooms. All rooms are with bathroom, equipped with satelite TV, direct – dial telephone and radio. Modern furnitures, all rooms recently refurbished.

Facilities.

Restaurant:

A large busy modern restaurant offering a range of local Polish and European cuisine.

Lobby:

The lobby area is large and bright with the reception desk located straight over from the hotels entrance, there is ample seating in the lobby area.

Hotel Alexander

In May 2003 Hotel Alexander joined the group of the most famous antique structures in Cracow’s Old Town by opening the gates for our honourable guests.

The location of the hotel, only 200 meters away from the Main Square, is its unquestionable advantage as most monuments and prestigious spots are located exactly in the heart of the Old City, which is only a walk away.

Hotel Alexander , Accommodation

Hotel has 39 bedrooms, suitable for one, two or three people. All rooms are equipped with bathroom, shower and hair dryer, satelite TV, direct – dial telephone and internet connection. Rooms are bright and spacious.

Facilities:

Restaurant:

The delicious Polish and international cuisine dishes may be savored by 50 people at the same time in the hotel restaurant. Professional chefs put much effort in creating an exquisite menu which will satisfy even the most sophisticated tastes, and the waiters will help you to pick a suitable dish.

Bar:

The small, yet well stocked hotel bar is available for guests who wish to unwind over a drink.

Dates and Prices

55Club pricing is available to members of Citiescapes 55Club. For more information click here.

Date	Price		…….	55Club
02 Dec 2010	€389			€349
04 Dec 2010	€359			€329

Introduction to the Prague Christmas Markets

The Christmas Markets:

The Prague Christmas markets light up the city centre at this time of year, bringing tourists and locals together to enjoy the holiday spirit, in a true ‘winter wonderland’ setting.

They take place at the Old Town Square & Wenceslas Square.

The markets consist of brightly decorated wooden huts selling a variety of traditional Czech products from handicrafts and hot food (corn on the cob, sausages and local specialities), to Czech beers and warm drinks.

The markets sell nice stocking fillers, such as Bohemian Crystal, wooden toys, scented candles, hand-made jewellery, ceramic mugs, hats, scarves, traditional puppets and Christmas tree ornaments.

But the Christmas markets are not just about shopping. You can also observe traditional foods being made, and in the Old Town Square children can stroke sheep, goats and even a llama.

Most impressive of all is the Christmas tree, shipped from the Krkonose mountains in the North of the Czech Republic. Erected in the Old Town Square, the tree is draped in a blaze of lights, which are turned on every night round 5pm. Set against a dark Gothic skyline, this is a spectacular sight.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly Dublin to Prague and transfer to your hotel. Rest of day at leisure.

Day 2: Morning Insiders Tour of Prague. Afternoon at leisure to explore.

Day 3: Day at leisure. Take some time to explore the many Christmas Markets dotted throughout the city.

Day 4: Collection from hotel and transfer to the airport. Return flight to Dublin.

Price inclusions

• Flight Dublin to Prague as outlined above
• Airport transfer to your hotel
• 3 nights accommodation in the 4* Clement Hotel based on 2 sharing
• Buffet breakfast each morning
• Insiders walking tour of Prague
• Return transfer from your hotel to airport
• Flight Prague to Dublin
• Services of a representative for coach transfers and tour

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and charges as indicated
• Includes check in of 1 standard bag per couple
• Single room supplement €63 for the duration
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit €100 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)

Accommodation details

Clement Hotel 4 ****

The hotel is located in the historical heart of Prague, just a few steps away from the Vltava River within a walking distance of all metropolitan tourist sites.

The hotel has 76 luxurious rooms on 8 floors and 1 room is specially equipped for the disabled. All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with direct phone line, satelite LCD TV,free Wi-Fi internet access, safe, minibar, coffee and tea making facilities and large bathrooms with bathtub or shower.

Dates and Prices

06 December 2010	€349
13 December 2010	€349

Introduction to the Prague Insiders Tour

What is an insiders tour?

It’s more than just a name – our information is dynamic engaging and far beyond the pedestrian.

On our Citiescapes tour a friendly, knowledgeable guide takes us on a fascinating journey through the sightseeing highlights of this enchanting city, discovering the people, places and events that have shaped Prague the past 1000 years.

The Citiescapes tour starts in the medieval centre of Prague, exploring the area around the Old Town Square, before strolling onto the Jewish Quarter (Josefov), once the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe. Along the way we learn about the dramatic history, traditions and legends linked to this area of the city.

Next, we cross Charles Bridge, one of Europe’s oldest stone bridges, to reach ancient Mala Strana. Here we take a short tram ride up the hill, where upon a spectacular vista of the whole city opens up before us.

As we walk through the cobbled streets of Hradcany, we arrive at the grandest sight of all, Prague Castle, the largest medieval castle complex in Europe.

Your guide will bring the dramatic history of Prague Castle to life, as we explore St. Vitus Cathedral, where kings were once crowned, before paying a visit to charming Golden Lane, home of alchemists and goldsmiths.

Finally, we descend the Prague Castle steps to return to the historical centre.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly Dublin to Prague and transfer to your hotel. Rest of day at leisure.

Day 2: Morning Insiders Tour of Prague. Afternoon at leisure to explore.

Day 3: Day at leisure.

Day 4: Day at leisure.

Day 5: Collection from hotel and transfer to the airport. Return flight to Dublin.

Price inclusions

• Flight Dublin to Prague as outlined above
• Airport transfer to your hotel
• 4 nights accommodation in the 4 Clement Hotel based on 2 sharing
• Buffet breakfast each morning
• Insiders walking tour of Prague
• Return transfer from your hotel to airport
• Flight Prague to Dublin
• Services of a representative for coach transfers and tour
• Taxes and charges of €108

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Includes check in of 1 standard bag per couple
• Single room supplement €120 for the duration
• Non refundable or transferable booking deposit €100 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)

Accommodation details

Clement Hotel 4 ****

The hotel is located in the historical heart of Prague, just a few steps away from the Vltava River within a walking distance of all metropolitan tourist sites.

The hotel has 76 luxurious rooms on 8 floors and 1 room is specially equipped for the disabled. All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with direct phone line, satelite LCD TV,free Wi-Fi internet access, safe, minibar, coffee and tea making facilities and large bathrooms with bathtub or shower.

Dates and Prices

04 October 2010

€399

Introduction to Alicante

This Citiescapes City Break takes you to the delightful Spanish town of Alicante. During your Insiders Tour our guide will lead your exploration, showing you the well known sights, and some hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. You are then free to enjoy your time in the Spanish Sun.

Itinerary

Day 1: On arrival you will be met by our guide and transferred to your hotel

Day 2: Morning Insiders Walking Tour of Alicante. During the tour our guide will lead your exploration, showing you both the main tourist sights and some hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. Highlights of the tour include the Old Town, the town hall, cathedral and the Basilica of Santa Maria. After this you take a coach to Santa Barbara Castle, perched on the mountain overlooking the town. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 3: Day at leisure. Take some time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Enjoy the spacious squares and parks, sample the delicious local cuisine, or relax on the beach, which leads out into the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 4: Morning and afternoon at leisure before your transfer from your hotel to the airport.

Price inclusions

• Flight Cork to Alicante
• Airport transfer to the hotel
• 3 nights accommodation in the 4 star Eurostars Mediterranea Plaza, based on 2 people sharing
• Bed and Breakfast basis
• Insiders Walking Tour of Alicante
• Transfer from the Hotel to the airport
• Services of a tour manager for coach transfers and tours
• Flight Alicante to Cork
• Taxes and charges of €98

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Includes check in of 1 standard bag per couple
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit €100 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)
• Single Supplement €140
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares

Accommodation details

Eurostars Mediterranea Plaza – 4 Star

A true oasis of peace and quiet in the very nerve centre of one of the liveliest cities on the Mediterranean.

An unbeatable location right in the centre of Alicante and some amazing vistas from the roof-top terrace make the Eurostars Mediterranea Plaza one of the most sought-after establishments in the city. The hotel is close to everything: a stone’s throw from the Postiguet beach, from the shopping area, from the ‘Barrio’ (the major night-life district), the yacht marina (starting point of the 2008 and 2011 Volvo Ocean Races) and many other places, such as the Teatro Principal (barely 200 metres away), the Contemporary Art Museum, the Esplanade of Spain (lovely walks in the shade of the palm trees) and the narrow streets of the old part of the city.

Our personal recommendation is for you to start the day with a hearty breakfast served under the arches of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and end it on the roof-top terrace where you can sit and enjoy the magnificent panoramic vista of the recently renovated Plaza and the Castle of St. Barbara, on top of Mount Banacantil.

Dates and Prices

Date	Price
16 Oct 2010	€529

Introduction to Alicante

This Citiescapes City Break takes you to the delightful Spanish town of Alicante. During your Insiders Tour our guide will lead your exploration, showing you the well known sights, and some hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. You are then free to enjoy your time in the Spanish Sun.

Itinerary

Day 1: On arrival you will be met by our guide and transferred to your hotel

Day 2: Morning Insiders Walking Tour of Alicante. During the tour our guide will lead your exploration, showing you both the main tourist sights and some hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. Highlights of the tour include the Old Town, the town hall, cathedral and the Basilica of Santa Maria. After this you take a coach to Santa Barbara Castle, perched on the mountain overlooking the town. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 3: Day at leisure. Take some time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Enjoy the spacious squares and parks, sample the delicious local cuisine, or relax on the beach, which leads out into the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 4: Morning and afternoon at leisure before your transfer from your hotel to the airport.

Price inclusions

• Flight Dublin to Alicante
• Airport transfer to the hotel
• 3 nights accommodation in the 4 star Eurostars Mediterranea Plaza, based on 2 people sharing
• Bed and Breakfast basis
• Insiders Walking Tour of Alicante
• Transfer from the Hotel to the airport
• Services of a tour manager for coach transfers and tours
• Flight Alicante to Dublin
• Taxes and charges of €98

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Includes check in of 1 standard bag per couple
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit €100 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)
• Single Supplement €140
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares

Accommodation details

Eurostars Mediterranea Plaza – 4 Star (13 – 16 October 2010)

A true oasis of peace and quiet in the very nerve centre of one of the liveliest cities on the Mediterranean.

An unbeatable location right in the centre of Alicante and some amazing vistas from the roof-top terrace make the Eurostars Mediterranea Plaza one of the most sought-after establishments in the city. The hotel is close to everything: a stone’s throw from the Postiguet beach, from the shopping area, from the ‘Barrio’ (the major night-life district), the yacht marina (starting point of the 2008 and 2011 Volvo Ocean Races) and many other places, such as the Teatro Principal (barely 200 metres away), the Contemporary Art Museum, the Esplanade of Spain (lovely walks in the shade of the palm trees) and the narrow streets of the old part of the city.

Our personal recommendation is for you to start the day with a hearty breakfast served under the arches of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and end it on the roof-top terrace where you can sit and enjoy the magnificent panoramic vista of the recently renovated Plaza and the Castle of St. Barbara, on top of Mount Banacantil.

LA City Hotel – 3 Star (20-23 October 2010)

LA City Hotel, which opened in March 2008, is one of the most centrally located 3 star hotels in Alicante, just a stones throw from some of the cities most popular attractions.

The hotel offers comfort, quality, attentive service and pure urban character.

The hotel is the perfect choice for those who wish to stay just a few steps away from museums, tourist attractions, restaurants and shops without missing out on the comforts of a new hotel.

Dates and Prices

55Club pricing is available to members of Citiescapes 55Club. For more information click here.

Date	Price		…….	55Club
13 Oct 2010	€489			N/A
20 Oct 2010	€439			€399

Introduction to the Istanbul Insiders Tour

This Citiescapes city break brings you to the beautiful city of Istanbul. Our experienced guide will lead you around the city on our famous Insiders Tour, showing you both the well known sights, and hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. The rest of the break is then free for you to explore the city where East meets West.

Itinerary

Day 1: On arrival you will be met by our guide and transferred to your hotel, the 4 Star Best Western The President Hotel.

Day 2: Full day Insiders Tour of Istanbul, with the Spice Markets included.

This comprehensive sightseeing tour of Istanbul provides the perfect introduction to the fabled city that spans Asia and Europe. Formally called Constantinople, Istanbul was the capital of the Roman Empire and Europe’s wealthiest metropolis, and is now the largest city in Turkey. On this one day sightseeing tour you will see how old meets new when you visit Istanbul’s four “must-see” historic sites.

• Blue Mosque: One of the most famous monuments in both the Turkish and Islamic worlds, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque “the Blue Mosque” is a beautiful classical Ottoman style creation. The mosque has six towering minarets and 260 windows illuminating its vast main chamber, which is decorated with more than 20,000 Iznik tiles.
• Hagia Sophia: Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century by the Emperor Justinian, and was one of the largest basilicas in the Christian world. After the conquest by the Ottoman Empire, it was converted to a mosque and is today one of the most magnificent museums in the world. Take a moment to linger here to admire the fine Byzantine mosaics.
• Topkapi Palace: The largest and oldest palace in the world, Topkapi is the crown jewel of the Ottoman Empire. With its harem (not included in tour), treasury and exotic buildings overlooking the Golden Horn, your visit to Topkapi promises to be a truly fascinating experience.
• Spice Market: There is a break for lunch in a Turkish restaurant (included) before you continue to the Spice Market. This market houses the sellers of many herbs & spices, with impressive colourful displays outside each shop.

Day 3: Day at leisure. The massive Grand Bazaar is just moments away from the hotel. In operation since the 14th century, the Grand Bazaar is one of the world’s largest covered markets, with 58 streets and over 4,000 shops. The bazaar is specially known for its jewelry, leather, pottery, spices and carpets.

Day 4: Transfer from your hotel to the airport for the return flight. Or (4 night tour) enjoy a day at leisure to explore Istanbul.

Day 5: Transfer from your hotel to the airport for the return flight.

Price inclusions

Flight Dublin to Istanbul

Airport transfer to the hotel

3 or 4 nights accommodation in the 4 Star Best Western The President Hotel, based on 2 people sharing

Bed and Breakfast basis

Full day Insiders Walking Tour of Istanbul (lunch included)

Transfer from the Hotel to the airport

Services of a tour manager for coach transfers and tours

Flight Istanbul to Dublin

Taxes and charges of €134

Booking remarks

Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated

Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit €100 per person

Full payment due on confirmation

2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card

Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)

Single Supplement €84 (3 night) €112 (4 night)

Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares

Accommodation details

Best Western President Hotel – Istanbul

Located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic city center, the Best Western The President Hotel offers all of the amenities to make travelers feel at home. Istanbul, Turkey’s most famous museums and historical sites are within walking distance of the hotel including St. Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Karakoy Pier.

The hotel offers 204 beautifully-appointed guest rooms and suites to fit any taste. Each room features cable satellite television and high-speed Internet access. Hotel amenities include a complimentary full breakfast buffet, an indoor swimming pool overlooking the Marmara Sea, an exercise facility and sauna. The hotel also offers complimentary cocktails at the onsite cocktail lounge.

The Best Western The President Hotel is located a short distance from the Blue Mosque, the Golden Horn and Taskim Square. Guests will enjoy spending an afternoon at the Kaarive Museum or taking in an evening performance at the AKM Opera House & Symphony.

Guest Rooms

The elegantly furnished guest rooms in the Best Western The President Hotel include the following amenities:

• Cable satellite television in 6 languages
• Hairdryer
• Coffee/tea maker
• Iron, ironing board
• Wirless Internet access available
• High-speed Internet access
• Direct dial telephone
• Air-conditioning
• Wake-up calls
• Room service 24 hours
• Mini-bar
• Desk/work area
• Self controlled heating/cooling system
• Private bath
• Bathroom phone
• Bathrobe and slippers available
• Bathroom amenities

Dates and Prices

Date	Duration	Price
06 Nov 2010	3 Nights	€599
06 Nov 2010	4 Nights	€629

Introduction to Bilbao

Bilbao’s cultural calendar is hard to resist; it has two of the best art galleries in Spain, six themed museums, countless contemporary art exhibitions and a continuous series of shows and performances, such as opera, symphony orchestras, theatre & dance.

Instantly hailed as the most important structure of its time, Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum Bilbao recently celebrated a decade of extraordinary success on October 19, 2007. With close to ninety exhibitions and over ten million visitors to its credit, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao forever changed the way the world thinks about museums, and it continues to challenge our assumptions about the connections between art, architecture, and collecting.

Gastronomy is an art in Bilbao. The capital of the Basque Country has prestigious restaurants offering dishes ranging from traditional cuisine to the most avant-garde culinary creations. Not forgetting, of course, different areas of the city in which to savour the famous pintxos (typical appetisers).

Shopping for antiques, typical ceramics, exquisite cakes and pastries or the latest

fashions is one of the options offered by the shopping centres and shops of Bilbao. Going shopping in Bilbao is a unique occasion for enjoying the architectural heritage of the city and whilst out you can enjoy the popular pintxos in one of the many taverns or cafés lining the streets.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly Dublin to Bilbao and transfer to your hotel. Rest of day at leisure.

Day 2: Half day Insiders Walking tour of Bilbao, taking in all the beautiful sights. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 3: Day at leisure.

Day 4: Collection from hotel and transfer to the airport. Return flight to Dublin.

Price inclusions

• Flight Dublin to Bilbao
• Airport transfer to the hotel
• 3 nights accommodation in the 4 star Hotel Jardines De Albia
• Bed and Breakfast basis
• Insiders Tour
• Transfer from the Hotel to the airport
• Services of a tour manager for coach transfers and tours
• Flight Bilbao to Dublin
• Taxes and charges of €96

Booking remarks

• Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
• Includes check in of 1 standard bag per couple
• Non refundable or transferrable booking deposit €100 per person
• Full payment due on confirmation
• 2% surcharge if balance is paid by credit or charge card
• Optional Insurance €25 (conditions apply)
• Single Supplement €115 May and €136 June-Sept
• Prices are correct at time of going to press, flight supplements may apply depending on availability of negotiated airfares

Accommodation details

4 * HOTEL JARDINES DE ALBIA :

Located in the heart of Bilbao, next to the business and commercial area of the town. Within 5 minutes walk from mythical places such as The Guggenheim Museum, Euskalduna’s Congress Palace and the Old town.

The hotel offers one irresistible and exclusive services for guests: an Urban Bath SPA. Advance booking required. Other facilities include gym, snack bar, 24 hour room service, laundry service (dry cleaning and ironing), rent a bike, and the Zuria restaurant, specialized in Chef’s and traditional Basque cuisine.

ROOMS

This hotel features 138 guestrooms, all of which include air conditioning, satellite television, complimentary newspapers, safes, complimentary wireless Internet access, and minibars.

• Internet access – wireless
• Cable/satellite TV
• Air conditioning
• Complimentary newspaper
• Climate control
• Direct-dial phone
• Internet access – complimentary
• Minibar
• Wake-up calls
• Housekeeping
• Extra towels/bedding
• Hair dryer
• Bidet
• Bathroom telephone
• Electronic/magnetic keys
• In-room safe
• Welcome amenities
• Window opens

Dates and Prices

10 July 2010 €519 pp Book this

28 Aug 2010 On Request  Book this

11 Sept 2010 Sold Out  Book this