Escorted Tours
Christmas on the Italian Riviera Escorted Tour
A popular tourist destination since the early 19th century after its beauty was much extolled by the Romantics, this dramatic coastline is a delight to explore with small coves crowded by villages tumbling down their cliffs, colourful harbours full of yachts and fascinating, historic cities. Your base is the charming Alassio, a peaceful yet atmospheric seaside resort with visits to Genoa, Santa Margherita, Portofino and Monaco.
what’s included
At A Glance
itinerary & excursions
Christmas 2026 Itinerary
Please note this is the itinerary for the Christmas 2026 departure; for the 2027 itinerary please scroll down.
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.
Day 1: Arrival in Alassio
Fly from London Gatwick to Nice. On arrival in Nice transfer over the border into Italy and on to Alassio (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes).
Day 2: Alassio at Leisure
The seaside resort of Alassio is well-known for its spectacular natural setting and beautiful views. Along its seafront of sandy beaches you’ll find a lovely promenade lined with excellent bars and cafes, and the cobbled streets of the pedestrianized town centre make for a relaxed afternoon stroll.
Essential listening is Edward Elgar’s concert-overture In the South (Alassio) which he composed while on holiday here in the winter of 1903.
Day 3: Santa Margherita and Portofino
Santa Margherita is a small, lovely and picturesque resort set on an inlet. The town is full of grand hotels and villas in lush gardens all looking out over the sparkling blue of the bay. Enjoy this beautiful resort with a gentle stroll or relaxing in a café watching the world go by.
Tiny Portofino nestled in a protected inlet amongst cypress and olive trees, with colourful houses, mansions shrouded by trees and plenty of bars and cafes. Just above the town you’ll find San Giorgio church, said to contain relics of the dragon slayer himself.
Day 4: Historic Genoa
Italy’s largest port, Genoa has been a prosperous economic centre for centuries, which has created a city full of impressive landmarks and a glorious heritage and earning the nickname ‘La Superba’.
The old town is a medieval warren, part of which is UNESCO-listed, spotted with palazzi that have been converted into world class museums and art galleries.
Day 5: Monaco, Monte Carlo and Christmas Eve Dinner
The principality of Monaco may be a tiny 1.9 square km, but you’d be hard pushed to find as much luxury anywhere else. Ruled over by its famous royal family and full of lavish hotels, luxury tower blocks, gleaming super cars and a harbour stuffed with multi-million pound yachts, Monaco is a fascinating place to visit.
See the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo and Hotel de Paris and soak up the ambience.
Day 6: Christmas Day in Alassio
With a festive lunch at the hotel, the rest of today is free for you to explore independently or relax and unwind.
Day 7: Alassio at Leisure and Villa Hanbury Gardens
This morning we have time to spend at leisure in Alassio and enjoy any local traditions and festivities – perhaps join the locals with a morning dip in the sea! This afternoon we travel to the Villa Hanbury Gardens for a guided tour. Laid out by Sir Thomas Hanbury in the mid-19th century the gardens are a dramatic 100 acre site on a promontory and are planted with a wide range of specimens.
Day 8: Return Flight from Nice
Transfer to Nice airport for flight to London Gatwick.
itinerary & excursions
Christmas 2027 Itinerary
Please note this is the itinerary for the Christmas 2027 departure; for the 2026 itinerary please scroll up.
Day 1: Arrival in Alassio
Fly from London Gatwick or Manchester to Nice. On arrival in Nice transfer over the border into Italy and on to Alassio (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes).
Day 2: Alassio at Leisure
The seaside resort of Alassio is well-known for its spectacular natural setting and beautiful views. Along its seafront of sandy beaches you’ll find a lovely promenade lined with excellent bars and cafes, and the cobbled streets of the pedestrianized town centre make for a relaxed afternoon stroll.
Essential listening is Edward Elgar’s concert-overture In the South (Alassio) which he composed while on holiday here in the winter of 1903.
Day 3: Santa Margherita and Portofino
Santa Margherita is a small, lovely and picturesque resort set on an inlet. The town is full of grand hotels and villas in lush gardens all looking out over the sparkling blue of the bay. Enjoy this beautiful resort with a gentle stroll or relaxing in a café watching the world go by.
Tiny Portofino nestled in a protected inlet amongst cypress and olive trees, with colourful houses, mansions shrouded by trees and plenty of bars and cafes. Just above the town you’ll find San Giorgio church, said to contain relics of the dragon slayer himself.
Day 4: Monaco, Monte Carlo and Christmas Eve Dinner
The principality of Monaco may be a tiny 1.9 square km, but you’d be hard pushed to find as much luxury anywhere else. Ruled over by its famous royal family and full of lavish hotels, luxury tower blocks, gleaming super cars and a harbour stuffed with multi-million pound yachts, Monaco is a fascinating place to visit.
See the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo and Hotel de Paris and soak up the ambience.
Day 5: Christmas Day in Alassio
With a festive lunch at the hotel, the rest of today is free for you to explore independently or relax and unwind.
Day 6: Alassio at Leisure and Villa Hanbury Gardens
This morning we have time to spend at leisure in Alassio and enjoy any local traditions and festivities – perhaps join the locals with a morning dip in the sea! This afternoon we travel to the Villa Hanbury Gardens for a guided tour. Laid out by Sir Thomas Hanbury in the mid-19th century the gardens are a dramatic 100 acre site on a promontory and are planted with a wide range of specimens.
Day 7: Historic Genoa
Italy’s largest port, Genoa has been a prosperous economic centre for centuries, which has created a city full of impressive landmarks and a glorious heritage and earning the nickname ‘La Superba’.
The old town is a medieval warren, part of which is UNESCO-listed, spotted with palazzi that have been converted into world class museums and art galleries.
Day 8: Return Flight from Nice
Transfer to Nice airport for flight to London Gatwick.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“The highlight of our holiday was the wonderful atmosphere created by our Tour Manager, Tessa Say. She was outstanding—more than 5*—completely conversant with all aspects of the organisation and answered any enquiries with care and courtesy. I admired the relaxed way she engaged with drivers and hotel staff alike. Tessa was always calm and unruffled, on top of everything, and completely professional in every way. The antipasti bar was exceptionally good at breakfast and dinner. The hotel was very clean, with absolutely charming staff throughout, and our coach driver, Roberto, was excellent. Tessa made the group feel like longtime friends, ensuring the trip was smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.”
Mrs S, travelled December 2025
“Monte Carlo and the Hanbury Gardens were definite highlights of our holiday. Tessa, our Tour Manager, was excellent throughout. She also thoughtfully organised an optional trip to the next town on our first day, which was a wonderful addition and much appreciated by those who joined.”
Mr B, travelled December 2025
“One of the real highlights for us was the visit to Santa Margherita, along with the scenic bus journey to Portofino and back, which was particularly enjoyable. The festive touches throughout the trip, including pre-meal drinks and nibbles and special Christmas activities, added to the overall experience.”
Mr S, travelled December 2025
“The extra festive touches the hotel arranged really made a difference for us, including the land train and the magician, which added great fun to the holiday. Visiting Monte Carlo was especially magical and full of Christmas atmosphere.”
Mrs N, travelled December 2025
Exploring the vibrant city of Genoa and sampling all the delicious Italian food was an absolute delight. Every meal felt like a celebration, and the city’s charm made the trip truly memorable.”
Mrs T, travelled December 2025
“Christmas Day celebrations were unforgettable, from a bracing dip in the sea to the lively brass band playing nearby. It was a truly memorable sight that delighted visitors of all ages.”
Mrs S, travelled December 2025
Availability
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HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Hotel Toscana, Alassio
The four-star superior Hotel Toscana has been run by the Tuscan Mantellassi family since 1934. Centrally located, just 80 metres from Alassio’s sandy beach and a short walk from the ‘budello’, the hotel has excellent facilities including a wellness centre that features a sauna, Turkish bath, hot tub and fitness centre, a restaurant that uses both local and Tuscan produce, and lounge. Rooms are welcoming and comfortable with air-conditioning, private bathroom, mini-bar, TV, safe and wi-fi.
Hotel Toscana Website
OUR VIEW ON THE HOTEL
This family-run hotel is cosy and welcoming in a wonderful location right in the centre of Alassio and close to the seafront and has been greatly enjoyed by our guests over the past few years.
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a moderate fitness rating, reflecting a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing.
If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
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