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E X T R A S P E C I A L H O L I D AY S
INTRODUCTION
city breaks
Ideal for a short burst of fun, a special occasion, a long weekend - here are some of our favourites.
city breaks
Although you are heading for the tranquillity of a lake and mountain resort, there is nothing like the contrast of a visit to a fabulous city, that either represents the capital of the country you are visiting or just the closest city to your final destination. Each of the countries we have featured in the Lakes and Mountains specialist brochure have easy access to some of the most popular and stunning cities of the country.
switzerland
BASEL The second largest city in Switzerland and the architectural and art capital of the country, Basel sits alongside the Rhine, which has been the main source of its prosperity over the years. Tourism is now a key income for the city, a lively medieval capital with pavement cafés nestled in one of the most attractive old town areas of Europe. BERNE Although not widely known by many as the capital of the country, Berne is perhaps the most charming city in Switzerland. Sitting on a steep-sided peninsula in a corner of the energetic River Aare, it has a quiet relaxing small town atmosphere. The cobbled streets give the city an overall historic feel as you can see the buildings and pathways have not changed for over 500 years. Of course the 21st century can also be seen in Berne as its modern shops, superb restaurants and rattling trams are a main part of everyday life in the city.
norway
BERGEN A World Heritage City that is the famous gateway to the fjords, this idyllic historic city has a broad range of cultures and atmospheres to experience. From the bustling modern centre that acts as a host for many business get-togethers, to the old harbour of Bryggen where the brightly coloured old wooden fishing houses now host classic craft shops and boutiques. The funicular railway is one of Norway's most famous attractions and the only one of its kind in Scandinavia. The trip to Mount Flyen, 1,050 feet above sea level offers spectacular views of the city and where the sea joins the huge fjords. The fish market in Bergen is not to be missed and to get the freshest prawns, crabs and oysters you need to be a reasonably earlybird. Grab yourself a few hundred grams of freshly cooked prawns and sit on one of the many benches overlooking the sea and experience the refreshing natural taste of the Norwegian Sea's produce.
italy
VERONA The gateway to Lake Garda, the city of Verona has wowed many visitors on their journey across the northern part of Italy. Home to the famous `Arena di Verona' this amphitheatre has hosted many exciting events over hundreds of years, from gladiator games to the impressive and extravagant operas that annually appear from June to September. A small city that is worth staying in for even just one night to experience a unique and cultural Italian city. MILAN The fashion capital of the world, Milan is only a couple of hours away from the Lakes of Como and Maggiore and can be easily accessed by train or car (although driving can be challenging through the city). All you need is a couple of nights to take your time to explore the historical centre of Milan, which is represented by the Grand Duomo located in the Piazza del Duomo with its Napoleonic façade. Then why not let yourself go and hit the shopping streets of Via Montenapoleone?
austria
SALZBURG The home of one of the greatest composers in the world, Amadeus Mozart, the city exudes classical culture and history. Take time to explore every angle of Mozart's life, or perhaps just sit and relax in one of the many gardens, palaces and cafés or visit one of the many museums. A true baroque city, the old Salzburg makes you feel that you are back in the days of the great composers with such a variety of different building styles, it is a true architectural hub. The baroque churches, for example, are known throughout the world as being some of the best examples preserved to date.
canada
VANCOUVER Vancouver is a friendly city with so much to see and do including art galleries, museums and theatres. The city offers a real mix of cultural areas such as Gastown which is Vancouver's Victorian-era business district, and the colourful neighbourhood of Chinatown. Explore Stanley Park, which is Vancouver's largest and most beloved green space. Robson Street is the city's busiest shopping street with hundreds of stores to choose from. Vancouver has a stunning harbour where many cruises depart heading for Alaska and beyond!
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