Escorted Tours 2022-23 Brochure - Mercury Holidays

Europe Departures & from prices 9 Jun 22 £929 11 May 23 £969 18 Aug 22 £1,099 8 Jun 23 £969 8 Sep 22 £989 6 Jul 23 £1,069 13 Oct 22 £899 17 Aug 23 £1,169 10 Nov 22 £799 7 Sep 23 £1,069 16 Feb 23 £629 12 Oct 23 £939 2 Mar 23 £729 9 Nov 23 £829 20 Apr 23 £899 • A single supplement starts from just £99 Mdina  < Silema < Malta Gozo Coach Air Day 1: UK to Malta Depart the UK on a flight to Malta. Upon arrival you will be met and transfer to your hotel Day 2: Valletta B Discover Malta’s magnetic charm on a morning tour of the fortified city of Valletta. Boasting some of the most opulent churches and palaces in Europe, Valletta’s quaint narrow streets exude a timeless ambience, and effortlessly transport you back to a bygone era. Soak in extraordinary scenery from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, delighting in breath-taking panoramas of the Grand Harbour, before continuing to the richly ornamented St John’s Co-Cathedral in which Caraviggio’s masterpiece, ‘The beheading of John the Baptist’ is lavishly displayed. Day 3: Rabat, Mdina and Most B Today begins at the renowned Rotunda Church of Mosta, whose famed unsupported dome is the third largest in Europe. Later, protected by impressive city ramparts, the quiet streets of Mdina, lined with ornate buildings and palaces, are characteristic of this picturesque silent city. Dominating a landscape of narrow avenues, uncover the prominent baroque façade and towering bell towers of St Paul’s Cathedral, before visiting an extensive complex of underground tombs at St Paul’s Catacombs; these mystifying discoveries are considered to be the earliest archaeological indication of Christianity in Malta. Day 4: Silema B Enjoy a day at leisure today or embark on an optional excursion to the small fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Day 5: Gozo B/L Discover Victoria’s imposing citadel, winding streets and bustling market squares on a full-day tour of Malta’s sister island, Gozo. From the capital city, travel towards the ‘Inland Sea’ of Dwejra to admire its breath-taking coastal formations and crystal-clear waters, before visiting the megalithic limestone temples of Ggantija; translating as the ‘Place of Giants’, according to local legend, this remarkable temple was constructed single- handedly by a giantress between the years of 3600-2500BC. En route to the seaside resort of Xlendi, enjoy an opportunity to shop for authentic handmade lace and knitwear items, which have long since characterised Gozo’s craft trade. Day 6: Three Cities and Harbour Cruise B Collectively named Cottonera, explore the three fortified cities of Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea, founded by the Knights of Malta in the 16th and 17th centuries. Begin this morning’s walking tour in the oldest city of Vittoriosa, where the majestic former Palace of the General of the Galleys & Order of St John’s Treasury can be seen from its affluent waterfront. Next, from the verge of Senglea point, delight in spectacular views of the Grand Harbour before cruising upon its azure waters. Step ashore for the chance to wander around an assortment of local shops before returning to your hotel. Day 7: Silema B Following a day at leisure, embark on an optional excursion this evening. Bathed in a golden hue, explore some of Malta’s most iconic landmarks, whose floodlit appearances present an entirely different display at night. Alternatively, immerse yourself in an energetic Maltese celebration, feasting on a delectable 4 course meal, followed by a traditional evening of folklore dance. Day 8: Silema to the UK B After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight back to the UK. Extend your tour Silema stay, 3 nights, 4 H B&B from £149 Valletta city stay, 3 nights, 5 H B&B from £299 Historical Malta Tour highlights ✔ Marvel at the palaces, cathedral and gardens of Valletta ✔ Explore the picturesque buildings and palaces of the ‘silent’ city of Mdina ✔ Walking tour in the Three Fortified Cities of Cottonera ✔ Witness the megalithic temples of Ggantija ✔ Tour of Gozo’s capital Victoria, the ‘Inland Sea’ of Dwejra and the seaside resort of Xlendi Tour includes • 7 breakfasts and 1 lunch • 4 H accommodation: Sliema-Preluna Hotel • Flights from London Heathrow with Air Malta. Regional departures available from Manchester, Luton, and Stansted Tour pace: Easygoing Malta and Gozo are brimming with baroque churches, prehistoric temples and breath-taking waterfront vistas. Discover Valletta’s magnificent Cathedral, the ‘silent’ walled city of Mdina and the apricot sands of Gozo’s beaches. 25 Hundreds more escorted tours are available on our website www.mercuryholidays.co.uk