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Led by Experts. Crafted for Explorers.

Exploring the past with Andante Travels New tours and returning favourites for 2026

Small groups Guided by experts

£0 Single Supplement places Limited availability

RATED EXCEPTIONAL WITH OVER 2,000 REVIEWS

Where History Comes Alive in 2026 Our new tours span millennia - from humanity’s earliest art to Europe’s great medieval powers

As we look ahead to another year of extraordinary travel, I’m delighted to introduce our new tours for 2026 - a collection spanning a remarkable sweep of human history, from the oldest oracle sites of ancient Greece to the courts of medieval Europe. They exemplify what makes Andante unique: taking you beyond the guidebook into the landscapes and stories that have shaped our world, with expert guidance and those moments when history truly comes alive. For those drawn to humanity’s earliest past, we offer two new tours: Rock Art & Human Origins, led by Dr Paul Bahn with special access to prehistoric caves in France and Northern Spain; and The Archaeology of Anglesey, exploring Neolithic tombs, Bronze Age standing stones and Iron Age hillforts. Our refreshed Classical Greece itinerary stretches from the Parthenon to Mystras and, from our base in Ioannina, we visit Dodona, Kassope, Nikopolis and Arta. Roman enthusiasts can join the Grand Tour of Roman Britain or return to Campania on Beyond Pompeii, uncovering the villas and historic hubs that once made Pozzuoli a ‘second Rome’. The Middle Ages come alive on Viking Homelands, coinciding with the Trelleborg Viking Festival, while Relaxed Kyrenia reveals northern Cyprus and Warsaw to Danzig explores the world of the Teutonic Knights. We also highlight beloved long-running programmes, from Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania to Carthage & Roman Tunisia. I hope you find a journey that speaks to your passion - Classical antiquity, the Viking Age, or medieval history. Here’s to all of our new adventures in 2026.

Mary Reynolds Head of Product

Get in touch with an expert If you are interested in joining one of our tours and want to know more, please give our Specialist Travel Executives a call today. They are ready to help with all of your questions.

01722 705 231 | andantetravels.co.uk 2

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Image: Bran Castle

Experience matters.

Our Guide Lecturers are seasoned experts in their fields, sharing their knowledge from beginning to end. What sets Andante Travels apart from the rest? One key reason is our exceptional Guide Lecturers. They’re not guest speakers relying on local guides for direction; they are accomplished presenters who immerse you in the sites you visit. Our experts focus on the intricate details of the past, explaining the mechanisms behind historical marvels and showcasing the extraordinary ingenuity of human achievement. Guide Lecturers are your travel companions - members of the group, always present to share in the laughter and camaraderie and readily available to engage in conversation and answer your pressing questions. Guests who travel with us often remark that it’s not only the high standard of guidance they receive but also the friendly and relaxed atmosphere that keeps them returning. Additionally, you may be accompanied by a Tour Manager and a local guide, who bring a touch of local insight to complement the expertise of your Guide Lecturer. Your curiosity is always met with insightful answers when travelling with us.

Our Expert Guide Lecturers John Shepherd

Ken Murphy

Nick Jackson

Dr Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley

Dr Eireann Marshall

Dr Val Turner

Terry Richardson

Dr Rita Roussos

Dr Simon Elliott

Dr Michael Jones

Dr Elizabeth Bloxam

Prof. Tony King

Dr Doru Bogdan

Dr Jeremy Bennett

Lucia Gahlin

Ioanna Tasouli

Dr Jamie Sewell

John Oxley

Tom Abbott

Dr Paul Bahn

Dr Gillian Shepherd

Oliver Gilkes

Dr Brian Ayers

Diana Blumberg

Iain Shearer

Dr Farès K Moussa

Tony Wilmott

Dr Peter J Brown

Tony O’Connor

Choose Andante Travels, where expertise transforms travel     

Small groups with big insight - travel in a group of no more than 18, giving you deeper access to sites, stories and experts

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Chosen by travellers, celebrated by the experts - we’re honoured to be nominees for the Condé Nast Traveller Awards, British Travel Awards, and Wanderlust Readers’ Travel Awards

Experience matters - with over 40 years of curating and innovating truly exceptional tours, you can be certain your experience will be something extraordinary We uncover history, layer by layer - we make sure you're not rushed and have plenty of time at each site Led by experts - guided by archaeologists, Egyptologists and historians, all specialists in their field Tour Managers accompany most tours - allowing our Guide Lecturers to concentrate on what matters most... delivering extraordinary, expert-led discovery

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Every itinerary tells a story - our tours are carefully curated to follow an archaeological theme, designed by experts to bring deeper meaning and context to every site you visit

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Expert travel with exceptional value - all local transport, meals and gratuities are taken care of even wine with dinner on most tours

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Because you matter - we never treat you like a number. No name badges, no umbrellas in the air - just genuine connection and intelligent conversation Expert service - our team are on hand to support, before, during and after your tour Trusted by guests, recognised for excellence - we have been rated ‘Exceptional’ with over 2,100 reviews and are winners of Feefo’s 2025 Platinum Trusted Service Award

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Pompeii, Herculaneum & Classical Campania Learn more about Pompeii at the recently excavated villas 8 DAYS FROM £3,060pp

Moderate

£0 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT PLACES AVAILABLE

Nowhere in the world gives deeper insight into Roman life than the dramatic seaside towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Before the cataclysmic eruption of Vesuvius, these were thriving, lively seaside towns. Pompeii was a trading town, equipped with bars, shops and brothels, while neighbouring Herculaneum was an affluent and elegant town. All this came to an abrupt halt, one autumnal day in AD 79, when Mount Vesuvius which had done little more than rumble for years - erupted with incredible force. Two thousand years later, the sites of the Bay of Naples confront the modern visitor with a vivid, haunting immediacy like nothing else in the ancient world. In some cases, we even know the names, professions and personal histories of the people who owned the villas and shops we visit. The preservation of Herculaneum, Pompeii and its surrounding sites is remarkable and the archaeology is beyond compare, which is why we have been leading tours here for nearly 40 years. This is an exciting time for visitors to these Vesuvian towns, as new discoveries are constantly being made, and new areas of excavation are opened up. Walk as the Romans did, from amphitheatre to baths to forum, as our Guide Lecturer conjures an evocative picture of the everyday life of these prosperous Roman towns.

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Enjoy visits to off-the-beaten-track villas at Stabiae

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Private access to the Cave of Sejanus (Grotta di Seiano) and the adjoining Villa of Pausilypon with its dramatic coastal views

Naples

Visit newly excavated houses in Pompeii

Vesuvius Herculaneum

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Oplontis

Pompeii

Stabiae Cava de' Tirreni

Day One | UK - Cava de’ Tirreni Today we fly from London Heathrow to Naples and then we transfer to our hotel on arrival.

Day Two | Cava de’ Tirreni - Paestum Our day begins with a visit to the fascinating site at Paestum, ancient Poseidonia. Long before the Romans came, this was a thriving Greek city that was part of greater Greece from the 6th century BCE. After lunch, we discover glorious Greek temples here. We then visit the Paestum Museum, famed for its archaic metopes and painted tombs, including the wonderful Tomb of the Diver, dating to circa 480 BCE. We have also arranged special access to the magnificent Store Rooms of Paestum, where we see artefacts usually hidden from view

Day Three | Pompeii We devote the entire day to Pompeii. No other site compares in revealing details of daily life in a Roman

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Images: Pompeii & Herculaneum

town. We visit some of the most well-preserved buildings and the amphitheatre, theatre, forum, bath-houses, bars and even brothels. Fountains in the street are worn from where countless people rested their hands to take a drink and Roman graffiti can still be seen on the walls. Travelling via the best routes to avoid the crowds, we visit some houses that are newly reopened to the public.

Day Four | Naples - Pozzuoli Our first visit of the day is to the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, home to an exceptional collection of artefacts and an essential complement to exploring the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Highlights include the famous Alexander Mosaic, the Bronze Runners and the Farnese Bull, carved from a single block of marble, the largest ancient sculpture ever recovered. After lunch we move on to Pozzuoli where we explore the Flavian amphitheatre, one of Italy’s largest Roman arenas. Later, we have arranged private access to the Cave of Sejanus, a monumental tunnel dating to the age of Augustus, which leads to the lovely seaside villa of Pausilypon the summer house of an elite Roman, Publius Vedius Pollio. Much of the villa has been lost to the sea but its amphitheatre, odeon, gardens and other structures still are visible.

Day Five | Stabiae Today we venture off the beaten-track to the villas of Stabiae, an exclusive Roman resort for the very wealthy. The vast Villa San Marco, with its swimming pool and bath complex, is one of the most opulent along this coast and it remains impressive in its scale. We will also visit the Villa Arianna, with its wonderful frescoes and fabulous views over the Bay of Naples. After lunch, we visit the Archaeological Museum of Castellammare di Stabia Libero D’Orsi, which opened in September 2020 specifically for the exhibition of the many important items found in the region of Stabia. There are a large number of finds on display, some never before exhibited in Italy, including frescoes, inlaid floors, stuccoes, sculptures and tableware.

Day Six | Herculaneum This morning, we head to Herculaneum, which perfectly complements a visit to Pompeii. This seaside city was buried to a significantly greater depth than Pompeii - under 23 metres of pyroclastic to be exact - perfectly preserving everyday objects as well as houses up to their rooftops. In addition to the site, we explore the Antiquarium, newly opened after 44 years, which houses precious articles found along Herculaneum’s seafront, including a well-preserved boat. After lunch, we visit Boscoreale to explore Villa Regina, discovered in the late 20th century while digging for the foundations of council housing. In contrast to the opulent villas we have seen on other days,

YOUR EXPERT GUIDES Dr Doru Bogdan

Diana Blumberg

A researcher and lecturer at the University of Alba Iulia in Romania, Doru is a specialist in Roman archaeology and has also supervised an array of fascinating excavations. Join Doru on our 13th April departure.

Diana Blumberg is an archaeological scientist who specialises in the analysis of archaeological materials. She has worked on archaeological field schools in both Pompeii and Portus (the latter being one of the harbours of ancient Rome). Join Diana on our 28th September departure.

John Shepherd

Tony Wilmott

Winner of the Wanderlust World Guide Award - History & Culture 2023, John has worked extensively in the field in Europe as an archaeologist, including France, Italy and Bulgaria. Join John on our 27th April & 5th October departures.

Dr Jamie Sewell An author of books and articles on the archaeology of towns in Hellenistic Italy, Jamie has 15 years’ worth of experience supervising excavations in Britain, Germany, Italy and Romania. Join Jamie on our 4th May departure.

Dr Gillian Shepherd Director of the Trendall Center for Ancient Mediterranean Studies at La Trobe in Australia, Gillian specialises in the Greek colonisation of Italy and Sicily. She is especially interested in the historiography of colonisation. Join Gillian on our 7th September departure.

this is a modest small holding which provides us with evidence of how ordinary people lived. Boscoreale is a locality north of Pompeii located on the slopes of Vesuvius, identified by some with the Pagus Augustus Felix Suburbanus. With the inauguration of the Great Pompeii, in October 2023, the Antiquarium of Boscoreale was reopened with a room dedicated to the excavations underway in the suburban villa of Civita Giuliana, with the ceremonial chariot found there in 2021.

Day Seven | Vesuvius - Oplontis Today, we ascend to the great volcanic crater of Vesuvius. The majority of our journey is by bus, but the final part requires a walk of around 30 - 40 minutes, which is well worth the effort. The walk starts at Monte Somma, the crater of the AD 79 eruption, where we grasp the scale of it. After the ascent and peering into the crater being forged since the ancient eruption, we see fumaroles and the layers of previous eruptions, while walking around the perimeter of the crater affords magnificent views over the Bay of Naples. On good days, you can even make out Pompeii. After lunch, we continue to the impressive villa at Oplontis, which boasts sumptuous frescoes, a bath complex, an enormous swimming pool and interesting slave

Senior Archaeologist with Historic England, Tony has directed many excavations, and published several books and many articles in archaeological journals. He specialises in the Roman periods, with a particular interest in the Roman military. Join Tony on our 19th October departure.

Dr Simon Elliott An award-winning and best-selling author, historian and broadcaster, Simon is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Kent. He is also a Trustee for the Council of British Archaeology. Join Simon on 26th October departure.

quarters. This villa was supposedly owned by Emperor Nero and was destroyed and subsequently preserved by Vesuvius’ eruption.

Day Eight | Naples - UK After breakfast, our tour ends, and we catch our return flight back to London Heathrow.

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Expert Guide Lecturer & Professional Tour Manager • Entries to all sites as per the itinerary • Andante Field notes • All taxes & gratuities to local staff (drivers, waiters, site custodians)

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 7 nights' in the Hotel Scapolatiello

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date Twin/Dbl Share 13th - 20th Apr £3,060 27th Apr - 4th May £3,060 4th - 11th May £3,170

SS £265 £0 £265 £0 £265 £0

7th - 14th Sep £3,170 28th Sep - 5th Oct £3,170 5th - 12th Oct £3,170 19th - 26th Oct £3,170 26th Oct - 2nd Nov £3,170

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For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/apom Image: Villa San Marco with guide lecturer

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Lake Garda & the Cities of Veneto Romans to the Renaissance 8 DAYS FROM £3,370pp

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Dr Eireann Marshall An Honorary Research Fellow for the Open University, Eireann has led many Andante tours. She won the Top History and Culture Guide prize at Wanderlust magazine’s 2019 World Guide Awards.

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

From Roman province to Doge Republic, the Veneto has a long, remarkable history. We explore Lake Garda’s fascinating area, discovering archaeology, art, and architecture—from a prehistoric cave beside a 15th-century ‘Roman’ villa to a medieval monastery near an ancient theatre. In quieter spring and autumn months, enjoy vineyards, olive groves, lively piazzas, and tangled streets of Verona, Vicenza, Mantua, and Padua. Day One - UK - Verona - Sirmione | Day Two - Desenzano | Day Three - Verona | Day Four - Mantua Day Five - Fumane & Villa della Torre | Day Six - Vicenza | Day Seven - Padua Day Eight - Sirmione - Verona - UK

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Discover the extraordinary cave site of Fumane, one of the major prehistoric archaeological sites in Europe Enjoy the picture-perfect setting and cobalt blue waters of Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake Explore the beautiful cities of Verona and Vicenza, Padua and Mantua and their plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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Image: Grottoes of Catullus

Ravenna

• Expert Guide Lecturer & Professional Tour Manager • Entries to all sites as per the itinerary • Andante Field notes and all taxes & gratuities to local staff (drivers, waiters, site custodians)

Included travel • Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 7 nights’ in the Hotel Continental Thermae & Spa, Sirmione

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date Twin/Dbl Share 27th Apr - 4th May £3,640

SS £495

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/alga

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Rome and her heirs 6 DAYS FROM £2,580pp

Nick Jackson Moderate

A graduate of the Institute of Archaeology at UCL, Nick is an archaeologist and historian with over 20 years of excavation experience.

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

In AD 42 the Roman Imperial court fled from Rome to Ravenna and for a period it was the political centre of what remained of the Western Empire. The result was an astonishing flowering of art and architecture created in the dying days of the Empire. To this day, the city’s numerous churches, palaces and mausolea, resplendent with shimmering mosaics expressing the majesty and mystery of God never fail to achieve the awe-inspiring impact which their patrons, designers and makers intended. Day One - UK - Bologna - Ravenna | Day Two - Ravenna | Day Three - Ravenna Day Four - Ravenna - Classe | Day Five - Pomposa & Ravenna | Day Six - Ravenna - Bologna - UK

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Enjoy a special out-of-hours visit to the Basilica of San Vitale with time and space to contemplate its fabulous interior

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 5 nights’ in the Hotel NH Ravenna

Culinary inclusions • 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 4 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Admire the extraordinary mosaics at the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra (the House of the Stone Carpets)

Date 8th - 13th Oct

Discover the ancient port of Classe, once the biggest naval base of the Adriatic, home to a fleet of 250 ships

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/arav

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Twin/Dbl Share £2,580

SS £260

Image: St. Apollinare in Classe

Cities on the Po

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

From the Etruscans to the Great Renaissance Families 8 DAYS FROM £3,890pp

Dr Eireann Marshall An Honorary Research Fellow for the Open University, Eireann has led many Andante tours. She won the Top History and Culture Guide prize at Wanderlust magazine’s 2019 World Guide Awards.

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

Embark on a journey through history along the mighty Po River, Italy’s longest waterway meandering from the Cottian Alps to the sparkling Adriatic. Once significant in Italy’s economy and culture, its banks witnessed the rise and fall of civilisations and offer a treasure chest of relics. Learn about cities like Spina, uncover stories of power, and admire fascinating items in famous museums and sites. Day One - UK - Bologna | Day Two - Bologna | Day Three - Ferrara | Day Four - Comacchio Day Five - Modena | Day Six - Parma | Day Seven - Villanova - Montale | Day Eight - Bologna - UK

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Uncover the remnants of Spina, once the most important port of the Adriatic which went undiscovered for centuries Glimpse into the rich history and power of the Este family at Palazzo Schifanoia, home to some of Italy's most important 15th-century frescoes Learn more about the crossroads of the ancient world at the Museum of the Ancient Delta, featuring a well-preserved Roman shipwreck

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Image: Modena

Etruscan Italy

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 7 nights’ in the Hotel Porta San Mammolo, Bologna

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 8th -15th Jun 6th - 13th Jul

Twin/Dbl Share £3,890 £3,890

SS £495 £495

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/acop

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Discovering the ancient people of Etruria 8 DAYS FROM £3,735pp

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

At the height of their power and prosperity in the 6th century BCE, the Etruscans possessed a civilisation to rival Greeks and Phoenicians, with whom they traded extensively. This tour connects us with what we know: the hill sites chosen for their cities, beautiful objects used and taken to their graves, and tombs they decorated. Sculpture and frescoes show music, sport, dancing, banqueting. Day One - UK - Colle di Val d’Elsa | Day Two - Volterra | Day Three - Florence Day Four - Chiusi - Sarteano - Orvieto | Day Five - Orvieto | Day Six - Tarquinia - Sutri - Rome | Day Seven - Banditaccia Necropolis & Villa Giulia Museum | Day Eight - Rome - UK

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Image: Tomb of the Leopards

Enjoy a special out-of-hours visit to the Basilica of San Vitale with time and space to contemplate its fabulous interior

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 2 nights’ in Colle di Val d’Elsa, 2 nights’ in Orvieto and 2 nights’ in Rome

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Admire the extraordinary mosaics at the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra (the House of the Stone Carpets)

Date 21st - 28th Sep

Twin/Dbl Share £3,735

Discover the ancient port of Classe, once the biggest naval base of the Adriatic, home to a fleet of 250 ships

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aetr

SS £595

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Rome

YOUR EXPERT GUIDES

The Eternal City

Dr Simon Elliott

7 DAYS FROM £3,925pp

£0 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT PLACES AVAILABLE

Easy

Join Simon on our 24th April & 13th November departures.

John Shepherd Join Oliver on our 30th October departure.

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Expert Guide Lecturer & Professional Tour Manager • Entries to all sites as per the itinerary • Andante Field notes and all taxes & gratuities to local staff (drivers, waiters, site custodians)

Included travel

Rome is one of the most charismatic and engaging of the great cities of the world and this tour is the perfect introduction to the ‘Eternal City’ in the company of archaeologist and historians who will bring to life the triumphs, tragedies and political intrigue that characterised the Roman Empire. We stay at the privately owned Albergo Santa Chiara in the very heart of the ancient city, the perfect base for exploring Rome. Day One - UK - Rome | Day Two - Forum - Colosseum | Day Three - The Appian Way Day Four - Domus Aurea - Celian Hill | Day Five - Tivoli | Day Six | Pantheon - Field of Mars - Ara Pacis Day Seven - Ostia - UK

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Explore the underground ruins of Nero’s infamous Golden House, a revolution in architecture and luxurious design Walk along the Appian Way, visiting the Villa of the Quintili and the Circus of Maxentius Discover two important sites outside the city centre - the port of Ostia and Hadrian’s Palace at Tivoli

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Image: Colosseum

The Island of Sardinia

Neolithic, Nuragic and Punic mysteries of this Mediterranean island 9 DAYS FROM £4,795pp

Moderate

• Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 6 nights’ in the Albergo Santa Chiara

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date Twin/Dbl Share 24th - 30th Apr £4,070 30th Oct - 5th Nov £3,985 13th - 19th Nov £3,925

SS £395 £0 £395 £0 £395 £0

*18th Feb departure is from London Gatwick

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/arme

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Dr Farès K Moussa Specialising in religious art and artistic practice, Farès has both written and researched on Romans and Phoenicians in Tunisia, Libya, Morocco and Sardinia, as well as on the subject of prehistoric rock art.

Included travel

Sardinia offers one of the richest and most fascinating standing archaeological repertoires in Europe. Known to the Greeks as Sandaliotis (“Sandal”, due to its shape), or Ichnoussa (“Stepping stone”), the island has seen Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs and Catalonians come and go. Before them, the mysterious Nuraghi people left an astonishing plethora of wonderful archaeology. Day One - UK - Verona - Boario Terme | Day Two - Val Camonica | Day Three - Val Camonica Day Four - Boario Terme - Lake Ledro - Trento | Day Five - Bolzano & Trento | Day Six - Trento - Verona - UK

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Visit the highest Bronze Age structure in the Mediterranean at the Nuragic site of Su Nuraxi at Barumini

• Return flights from London City Airport, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 2 nights’ in Alghero , 2 nights’ in Su Gologone, 1 night in Oristano and 3 nights’ in Nora

Culinary inclusions • 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 8 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Travel in 4x4s to visit off-the-beaten-track sites such as the megalithic chamber tomb at S’Ena e Thomes and the Nuragic complex of Sa Sedda ‘e Sos Carros

Date Twin/Dbl Share 25th Apr - 3rd May £4,795 22nd - 30th Sep £4,795

Examine the island’s Phoenician past at Tharros and Sulcis, including mysterious tophets, children’s cemeteries

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/asdn

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

SS £635 £635

Image: Domus de Janas necropolis Ludurru

RelaxedSYRACUSE The ancient heart of southern Sicily

Easy

8 DAYS FROM £3,990pp

With a history stretching back almost 3,000 years, the city of Syracuse has the rare accolade of being classed as a World Heritage Site in its entirety. Founded in 734 BCE, the city grew to become the most powerful Greek polis in the western Mediterranean, rivalling Athens in its cultural achievements and political influence. We follow in the footsteps of the Greeks, Romans and much later civilizations who landed upon these shores and discover not only Ortygia but surrounding sites including the Greek Castle of Euryalus, the Roman Villa at Tellaro and the lovely Pantalica hills, honeycombed with ancient tombs.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Explore from our base in historic Ortygia with its glorious piazzas and sea views

Dr Doru Bogdan

Discover Pantalica, beautifully alive with native bird and plant life

A researcher and lecturer at the University of Alba Iulia in Romania, Doru is a specialist in Roman archaeology and has also supervised an array of fascinating excavations.

Admire the exceptionally fine mosaics at the Villa Romana del Casale Visit the hilltop city of Noto famous for its wonderful Baroque architecture

Day One | UK - Catania - Syracuse We fly from London Gatwick to Catania and drive to our hotel in Syracuse.

could imagine Archimedes standing here with one of his fabulous devices defending the fort against invaders.

Day Two | Ortygia

Day Five | Ortygia

We spend the morning exploring Ortygia’s Greek origins walking from our hotel to the Temple of Athena. We also see the Temple of Apollo, the Fountain of Arethusa and the Great Harbour, where we consider the sea battle fought between Syracusan and Athenian forces in 413 BCE. After lunch the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore at leisure.

Day Three | Ortygia & Noto An earlier start this morning as we discover more of this great city at the historic food market on the east coast. Later, we visit the Church of Santa Lucia to see Caravaggio's masterpiece, Seppellimento di Santa Lucia. In the afternoon, we drive south to the UNESCO-listed city of Noto, famous for its Baroque architecture. Out last visit of the day is to the Roman villa at Tellaro which dates from the late Imperial period.

Day Four | Pantalica & Euryalus Castle We drive inland this morning to the hills of Pantalica, where we find an ancient necropolis dating primarily from the Late Bronze Age. After lunch we visit Euryalus Castle, one of the largest military constructions in the Greek world. One Image: Ortygia

Today is free to explore at leisure before meeting again for dinner.

Day Six | Syracuse We cross to the mainland to visit the very fine Paolo Orsi Museum, boasting collections discovered throughout eastern Sicily. Next, we explore Neapolis Archaeological Park, meaning "New City" in Greek and representing the expansion of ancient Syracuse. We explore the archaeological area surrounding the theatre and the vast stone quarries, the amphitheatre and the Altar of Zeus. Later we return to Ortygia to visit the extensive catacombs lying beneath Basilica of San Giovanni.

Included travel • Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation

Day Seven | Villa Romana del Casale

• 7 nights’ in the Hotel Palazzo Cavalieri

We drive to Piazza Armerina to see the restored UNESCO-listed Villa Romana del Casale with its exceptionally fine mosaics dating from the 4th century. The many rooms of exquisite mosaics floors, from a famous hunt scene and a scene of ten maidens participating in gymnastics to an array of vivid scenes from mythology.

Culinary inclusions

Day Eight | Syracuse - Catania - UK We return to Catania airport for our flight back to London Gatwick.

• 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 6th - 13th Oct

Twin/Dbl Share £3,990

SS £520

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/arsi

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Turin & Genoa

Baroque grandeur and maritime majesty 8 DAYS FROM £3,895pp

Moderate

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Dr Eireann Marshall

Discover two of northern Italy’s most captivating cities as we explore the artistic, architectural, and political legacy of two pivotal centres of Italian history: Turin, capital of the House of Savoy, and Genoa, the influential maritime republic known as La Superba.

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Explore Turin’s Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world’s most important collections of antiquities outside Cairo Visit the Royal Residences of the House of Savoy, including the splendid Palazzo Madama and La Venaria Reale Discover the art treasures of Genoa’s Strada Nuova Museums - Palazzi Rosso, Bianco and Doria Tursi

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Day One | UK - Turin We fly from London Heathrow to Milan, then transfer to Turin, capital of Piedmont and former seat of the House of Savoy.

Day Two | Turin Our exploration of Turin begins with its Roman heritage at the Palatine Gate and Roman Theatre, remnants of Augusta Taurinorum. We visit the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista, which houses the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, and Chiesa San Lorenzo, Guarino Guarini’s masterpiece of baroque spatial geometry with its extraordinary intersecting arches and inventive dome. In the afternoon, we examine the Galleria Sabauda, the ducal picture gallery featuring works by Van Dyck, Veronese, and Guido Reni, and the Archaeological Museum, with its important Roman material from Piedmont.

Day Three | Turin We spend the morning at Palazzo Madama, the medieval castle transformed into a baroque residence, now housing Turin’s civic museum of ancient art with exceptional collections of ceramics, goldwork, and furniture. We also visit Palazzo Carignano, Guarini’s baroque façade concealing the birthplace of Italian unification. The afternoon takes us to the Pinacoteca Giovanni and Marella Agnelli, a fascinating hanging structure on the roof of the Lingotto in Turin, the first great Fiat factory. Here the private collection of works on display include paintings by Matisse, Balla, Severini, Modigliani, Tiepolo, Canaletto and Bellotto.

Day Four | Turin Today we explore the Egyptian Museum which contains the world’s second-most important collection of pharaonic antiquities, established in 1824 with the acquisition of the Drovetti collection.

We examine statuary, papyri, tomb furnishings, and the remarkable finds from Deir el-Medina. In the afternoon, we visit the Villa della Regina, a hillside pleasure palace perched above the city. Recently reopened after extensive restoration, it is surrounded by Italian-style gardens complete with pavilions, water features, and newly revitalised agricultural terraces exemplifying the Savoy taste for villeggiatura.

Day Five | Turin - Genoa Before leaving Turin, we visit La Venaria Reale, the magnificent hunting lodge and palace complex commissioned by Duke Charles Emmanuel II. Designed by Amedeo di Castellamonte and later enhanced by Juvarra, the palace demonstrates the Savoy dynasty’s emulation of Versailles, with its grand galleries, chapel, and restored gardens. After lunch, we make our way south to Genoa, the former maritime republic arriving late this afternoon.

Day Six | Genoa In Genoa, we begin at Palazzo Reale, the seventeenth-century residence of the Balbi family. This spectacular estate overlooks the sea with terraces and gardens and decorated by the best artists of the time. Inside, a sequence of frescoed and decorated rooms culminates in the grandiose Hall of Mirrors and lavish picture gallery. Next we explore the Strada Nuova Museums: Palazzo Rosso, with its Genoese baroque interiors and paintings by Veronese, Dürer, and Van Dyck; Palazzo Bianco, housing Flemish and Italian masterpieces including Caravaggio’s Ecce Homo; and Palazzo Doria Tursi, the grandest of the street’s palaces, where we see Paganini’s violin and Genoese decorative arts.

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

An Honorary Research Fellow for the Open University, Eireann has led many Andante tours. She won the Top History and Culture Guide prize at Wanderlust magazine’s 2019 World Guide Awards.

Day Seven | Genoa This morning we visit the extraordinary Cathedral of San Lorenzo, with its striking striped Gothic façade and treasury containing the Sacro Catino, once believed to be the Holy Grail. Begun in the 12th century and completed over several centuries, it reflects Genoa’s evolving artistic connections across the Mediterranean. Next we visit the nearby Basilica of Santa Maria del Castello perched on the ancient hill that once formed the heart of Genoa’s medieval settlement. This site offers a quieter but no less compelling counterpart to the city’s grander churches and inside lie refined fresco cycles by the Lombard masters and a notable wooden cloister that speaks to the site’s monastic past. The afternoon is free to explore Genoa’s historic centre independently.

Day Eight | Milan - UK We transfer to Milan Airport for our return flight to London Heathrow.

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 4 nights’ at a hotel in Turin , and 3 nights’ at a hotel in Genoa

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date Twin/Dbl Share 28th Aug - 4th Sep £3,895

SS £540

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/atag Image: Piazza San Carlo

Athens - In-depth

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Athens, Aegina and the Historic Port of Piraeus 8 DAYS FROM £3,735pp

Dr Rita Roussos A native Athenian, Rita taught Archaeology and Art History at the American University of Athens. She is particularly interested in the place of women in ancient Greece and Rome.

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

This meticulously curated tour takes us on an immersive journey through the heart of ancient Greece, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore Athens’s rich historical and cultural heritage and surrounding areas. From the iconic Acropolis and the bustling Agora to the serene island of Aegina and the ancient sanctuary of Eleusis, each day is filled with fascinating discoveries and unforgettable experiences. Day One - UK - Athens | Day Two - Hill of Ares - Propylaea & Acropolis Museum | Day Three - National Archaeological Museum, Agora and Agora Museum | Day Four - Aegina Island | Day Five - Kerameikos, Piraeus & Eleusis | Day Six - Amphiaraeion of Oropos & Cycladic Museum | Day Seven - Sanctuary of Brauron - Thorikos & Sounion | Day Eight - Athens - UK

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Enjoy the richest collections of artefacts from Greek antiquity ever assembled at three world-class museums Explore the wonderful island of Aegina, situated in the Saronic Gulf Discover two fabulous sites which are rarely visited - the Amphiaraeion of Oropos and the Sanctuary of Brauron

Image: Stele, Kerameikos

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Ioannina

Included travel • Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 7 nights’ in the Acropolian Spirit Boutique Hotel, Athens

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 20th - 27th Apr

Twin/Dbl Share £3,735

SS £740

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aaap

YOUR EXPERT GUIDES

Highlights of Epirus 6 DAYS FROM £3,120pp

Dr Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley Join Christina on our 21st April departure.

Moderate

Oliver Gilkes Join Oliver on our 1st September departure.

Positioned on the western shore of Lake Pamvotis and encircled by the impressive Pindus Mountains, we find Ioannina, capital of Epirus, and one of Greece’s most scenic towns. From this most excellent of bases, we explore a selection of extraordinary archaeological sites, each representing a different era of Greek history: Dodona, Greece’s oldest oracle site (predating Delphi), the 4th-century city of Kassope with its impressive theatre, as well as Nikopolis, founded by Octavian in 31 BCE, and Arta, known for its outstanding Byzantine monuments.

Included travel

Day One - UK - Preveza - Ioannina | Day Two - Ioannina & Dodona | Day Three - Nikopolis Day Four - Arta & Orraon | Day Five - Kassope & Nekromateion | Day Six - Ioannina - Preveza - UK

• 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 5 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

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Image: Tomb of the Leopards

Delight in a beautiful area of Greece that is still largely untroubled by masses of visitors

• Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 5 nights’ in the SAZ City Life Hotel

Culinary inclusions

Dates & prices per person

Explore the ruins of Nikopolis, a city founded by Augustus to establish Roman dominion over Greece

Date 21st - 26th Apr 1st - 6th Sep

Twin/Dbl Share £3,120 £3,255

Enjoy the quiet beauty of Kassope, where there are spectacular views of the Ambracian Gulf

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aion

SS £390 £390

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Classical Greece

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

From Bronze Age to Byzantine 11 DAYS FROM £4,980pp

Dr Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley A tutor in Greek archaeology at the Cardiff Centre for Lifelong Learning, Christina specialises in Minoan Crete and is Co-Director of the Praisos Survey..

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

Embark on a modern odyssey to pivotal archaeological sites as we trace Ancient Greece’s story from the Bronze Age to Classical glory. This tour is for anyone who has dreamed of standing at the ancient Olympic starting line, debating Socrates, or following in Hercules’ footsteps. It’s a chance to revisit The Iliad and Odyssey and marry those stories with impressive remains of the people who believed in them. Day One - UK - Athens | Day Two - Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Day Three - National Archaeological Museum & Agora | Day Four - Thebes - Delphi | Day Five - Delphi Olympia | Day Six - Olympia - Nafplion Day Seven - Nafplion & Epidaurus | Day Eight - Corinth Day Nine - Mycenae | Day Ten - Mystras - Sparta - Kalamata Day Eleven - Kalamata - UK

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Included travel • Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 3 nights’ in the Herodion Hotel, Athens, 1 night in the V Hotel Delphi, 1 night in the Hotel Europa Olympia, 4 nights’ in the Nafsimedon Hotel, Nafplion and 1 night in the Grand Hotel Kalamata

Culinary inclusions • 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 10 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Discover the site of ancient Thebes, the mythical home of Oedipus Consult the oracle at the Panhellenic Sanctuary at Delphi in its wonderfully dramatic mountain setting Explore the famous citadel of Mycenae and see the Lion Gate, the grave circles and the Treasure of Atreus

Image: Delphi

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Albania, Macedonia & Northern Greece The Via Egnatia

Dates & prices per person Date

Twin/Dbl Share

21st Sep - 1st Oct

£4,980

£975

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aclg

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Oliver Gilkes

9 DAYS FROM £3,445pp

Moderate

£0 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT PLACES AVAILABLE

One of our longest-standing Guide Lecturers, Oliver has worked as a field and museum archaeologist in the UK, Albania and Italy. Oliver is considered one of just a handful of experts on Albanian archaeology in the UK.

Included travel

Join us as we explore the dramatic landscapes of Albania, Macedonia and Northern Greece - a vast patchwork of cultures and civilisations along the route of the Via Egnatia. Our tour takes in the magnificent tomb and treasures of Philip of Macedon, the late Imperial glories of Thessaloniki and the beautiful Medieval churches on the shores of stunning Lake Ohrid.

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• Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Discover Ötzi, the Ice Man, the most complete ambassador from the Copper Age, with all that he was wearing and carrying

• 2 nights’ in the Hotel Arvi, Durres, 2 nights’ in the City Palace Hotel, Ohrid, 1 night in the Hotel Kapri, Bitola, 1 night in the hotel Aigai, Edessa, and 2 nights’ in the Capsis Hotel Thessaloniki • 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 8 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Enjoy a morning in Ledro on the scenic shores of the mountain lake as we study the well-preserved remains of a Bronze Age village)

Date 11th - 19th Oct

Explore the prehistoric gallery of over 100,000 rock art depictions at the rock art sites in Naquane Park

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/avie

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Twin/Dbl Share £3,445

SS £355 £0

Image: Durrës

Aegean Odyssey Cruise Discover Minoan and Hellenic Gems 10 DAYS FROM £4,795pp

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

Moderate

• Expert Guide Lecturer & Professional Tour Manager • Entries to all sites as per the itinerary • Excursions to Knossos (Crete), Delos and Milos with other Celestyal passengers • Andante Field notes and all taxes & gratuities to local staff (drivers, waiters, site custodians)

Included travel • Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 2 nights’ at a hotel in Athens, and 7 nights’ aboard the Celestyal Journey

Culinary inclusions

The Aegean has been the setting for so much in mythology and history from the Bronze Age, through the Minoan and Mycenaean civilisations, to Classical Greece and Ancient Rome and onward to the Byzantine age. This wonderfully encompassing cruise arcs across the Aegean just as it spans through the rich history of the Greek Mediterranean. Day One - UK - Athens | Day Two - Athens | Day Three - Athens | Day Four - Kusadasi (Ephesus Day Five - Rhodes | Day Six - Knossos, Crete | Day Seven - Santorini | Day Eight - Mykonos (Delos) Day Nine - Milos | Day Ten - Athens - UK

Dates & prices per person

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• 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches & 9 dinners , plus extra snacks from the Greek Deli and Pizza Oven throughout the day • At hotel: water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner • Celestyal Journey: unlimited filtered coffee, tea, water, and juice during restaurant hours, unlimited free-pour sodas with all meals and wine with dinner in the Thalassa a la carte restaurant

Explore the Athenian Acropolis, the sanctuary in the heart of Athens, with the iconic Erectheum and Parthenon Admire the Royal Tombs in Vergina including that of Philip II, complete with stunning frescos and gold grave goods Enjoy a full day at Ephesus, one of Western Turkey’s highlights, famed for its rich architecture

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Image: Parthenon

Wild Thrace

22nd - 31st Oct

Twin/Dbl Share

Exterior Cosmos Cabin with window on Decks 5 or 9 £4,795 £1,460 Junior Dream Suite £5,795 N/A (on request, call to book)

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aaoc

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Discover ancient kingdoms across this region

Dr Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley

9 DAYS FROM £4,175pp

A tutor in Greek archaeology at the Cardiff Centre for Lifelong Learning, Christina specialises in Minoan Crete and is Co-Director of the Praisos Survey..

Moderate

Included travel

East of Thessaloniki lie the mountains and plains of Thrace, where ancient kingdoms once fought and allied with Persians, Greeks, and Macedonians. Discover Philippi, Mesembria with RomanoThracian burials, and Amphipolis - cities shaped by conquerors. Thrace’s archaeological sites and monuments reveal its rich heritage and coexistence of Christian and Muslim traditions. Day One - UK - Thessaloniki - Kavala | Day Two - Kavala - Philippi | Day Three - Thasos Day Four - Abdera, Xanthi & Komotini | Day Five - Kavala - Samothrace | Day Six - Samothrace Alexandroupoli | Day Seven - Mesembria & Maroneia | Day Eight - Didymoteicho & Evros Delta Day Nine - Alexandroupoli - Thessaloniki - UK

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Discover the traces of Roman, Medieval and Ottoman history which remain across the region

• Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 3 night’s in the Egnatia City Hotel & Spa, Kavala, 4 nights’ in the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Thraki, Alexandroupoli and 1 night in the Aiolos Hotel, Samothrace

Culinary inclusions • 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Take a short trip across the Thracian sea to the lovely unspoilt islands of Thasos and Samothrace

Date 2nd - 10th Sep

Twin/Dbl Share £4,175

Explore the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, built to honour fertility deities around 1000 BCE

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/athr

SS £530

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Macedonia

YOUR EXPERT GUIDES

The glories of northern Greece 8 DAYS FROM £3,735pp

Dr Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley Join Christina on our 28th April departure.

Moderate

Oliver Gilkes Join Oliver on our 8th September departure.

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

This tour of Northern Greece reveals fantastic archaeological sites shaped by Macedonians, Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, Slavs, and Ottomans. We journey through landscapes marked by canyons, lakes, waterfalls, and rivers, rich in history. Discover sanctuaries, monuments, palaces, painted tombs, and pebble mosaics at Verghina and Pella. Highlights include Kastoria, a beautiful lakeside town off the tourist trail, and Thessaloniki, a city with historical importance rivaling Constantinople.

Accommodation Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Discover the waterfalls at Edessa, a city defined by water

Date

Twin/Dbl Share

28th Apr - 5th May 8th - 15th Sep

£3,735 £3,830

£600 £695

Admire the remarkable frescos which decorate the Byzantine churches of Kastoria

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• Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

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Included travel

• 2 nights’ in Kastoria, 1 night in Edessa and 4 nights’ in Thessaloniki

Enjoy the richest ancient burial ever found in Europe - the tomb of Philip II - and its extraordinary museum

Image: Dispilio

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Crete & Santorini

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Rise and fall of the Minoan civilisation 8 DAYS FROM £4,505pp

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/amcd

Moderate

Dr Rita Roussos A native Athenian, Rita taught Archaeology and Art History at the American University of Athens. She is particularly interested in the place of women in ancient Greece and Rome.

The Minoans are known for their incredible labyrinthine palaces - the greatest of which is at Knossos, where Theseus defeated the Minotaur. Our journey across these two beautiful islands showcases the architectural and artistic skills of this Bronze Age civilisation, whose writing, ambition and organisation profoundly influenced ancient Greece’s development. Day One - UK - Santorini | Day Two - Fira & Akrotiri | Day Three - Thera - Heraklion Day Four - Palace of Knossos - Archanes | Day Five - Palace of Phaistos - Gortyn Day Six - Palace of Malia - Gournia | Day Seven - Mochlos | Day Eight - Sissi - Heraklion - UK

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Accommodation • 2 nights’ in Santorini, 3 nights’ in Heraklion and 2 nights’ in Eloundai

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Tick the mighty Palace of Knossos off your archaeological wish-list

Dates & prices per person

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• Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Included travel

Explore the city of Akrotiri - the “Pompeii of the Aegean” - and admire the fascinating frescoes on display in the museum

Date 22nd - 29th Sep

Visit the vast Archaeological Museum in Heraklion and view its fascinating collections

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/acre

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Twin/Dbl Share £4,505

SS £795

Image: Palace of Knossos

Cruising Istria & Islands of the Adriatic From Croatia to Montenegro 9 DAYS FROM £4,660pp

Easy

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES • Expert Guide Lecturer & Professional Tour Manager • Exclusive Andante excursions with entry to all sites as stated in the itinerary • Field notes • All taxes (including port taxes) & gratuities

Included travel • Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation

This is a wonderfully relaxed journey along the Croatian and Montenegrin coastline against the backdrop of the breathtakingly beautiful Adriatic and its islands. After spending time in Dubrovnik, the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, each destination offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of maritime life that defines this remarkable region. We visit Losinj, famous for its medicinal botany, stunning Rovinj with its visibly Venetian heritage and Pula, where Roman ruins stand alongside Romanesque churches as well as Kotor, Montenegro’s tiny medieval jewel. Day One - UK - Dubrovnik | Day Two -Dubrovnik | Day Three - Dubrovnik - Adriatic Coast Day Four - Losinj - Krk | Day Five - Krk - Rovinj | Day Six - Rovinj - Pula | Day Seven - Pula - Zadar Day Eight - Zadar - Kotor - Dubrovnik | Day Nine - Dubrovnik - UK

• 1 night at a hotel in Dubrovnik and 7 nights' aboard the MV La Belle de L'Adriatique

Culinary inclusions • 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 8 dinners • At hotel: water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner • MV La Belle de L’Adriatique: welcome cocktail and all on board drinks*, served in the restaurant and in the bar to include tea, coffee, soft drinks, beers, and a selection of wines, cocktails and long drinks *Premium branded drinks at own cost

Dates & prices per person 8th - 16th July

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Enjoy a leisurely cruise through 3,000 years of Croatian history Visit the improbably beautiful Dubrovnik with its evocative streets and the scenic 17th century stradun which dissects the city Explore Pula with its staggering collection of Roman ruins, including its impressive amphitheatre and stunning Temple of Augustus

Image: Dubrovnik

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Prehistoric Malta & Gozo

Twin/Dbl Share

Lower Deck Outside Cabin with porthole windows £4,660 Embarkation Deck Outside Cabin with panoramic window £4,990 Upper Deck Outside Cabin with panoramic window £5,230

£995 £995 £995

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/acdm

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Malta’s first inhabitants

Dr Jeremy Bennett

7 DAYS FROM £4,120pp

A British archaeologist, Jeremy was awarded his PhD at Magdalene College, Cambridge.

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

The island of Malta might be small but it packs a punch in historical terms. In the struggle for Mediterranean dominion, it played a key role in centuries of sparring between east and west. Occupied by Phoenicians, Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, Sicilians, Hospitallers, French, and British, it has a colourful, complex heritage. Our focus is on its earliest and most extraordinary occupation, around 5000 years ago, when this archipelago was home to a culture that created elaborate stone temples and rock-cut tombs. Day One - UK - Valletta | Day Two - Mġarr & Mdina | Day Three - Valletta | Day Four - Haġar-Qim, Mnajdra & Tarxien | Day Five - Għar Dalam & Xemxija Heritage Trail | Day Six - Gozo | Day Seven -

Valletta - UK

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Discover the extraordinary prehistoric culture, whose stone monuments predate the pyramids by over 1,000 years

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 6 nights’ in the Grand Hotel Excelsior, Valetta

Culinary inclusions • 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 6 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Explore the cave and associated museum at Ghar Dalam Cave, the lowest layers of which are over 500,000 years old

Date 6th - 12th Apr 5th - 11th Oct

Twin/Dbl Share £4,120 £4,270

Enjoy the timeless atmosphere of Valletta, Malta’s charming UNESCO World Heritage capital city

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/amal

SS £660 £685

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Carthage & Roman Tunisia

Stand before the mighty ancient amphitheatre of El Djem 10 DAYS FROM £3,695pp

Moderate

A land where dramatic events shaped ancient history - the superpowers of Carthage and Rome clashed in three Punic Wars, which determined the course of Western history. Lasting over 100 years, this conflict destroyed Carthage and assured Roman ascendancy. Superb sites and changing landscapes, from rolling hills and olive groves to sparkling sea, make this an excellent tour.

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Visit the incredible El Djem amphitheatre, Africa’s largest and best preserved Gaze upon some of the world’s most impressive mosaics at the Bardo, Sousse and El Djem museums Tour a selection of little-known sites, including Mustis and Ain Tounga as well as the Bulla Regia

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Day One | UK - Tunis Today we fly from London Gatwick to Tunis.

Day Two | Carthage Today is devoted to Carthage, now a wealthy suburb of Tunis, but scattered with the remains of this once great Phoenician city. We start our day at Byrsa Hill, once the citadel and a central feature of the Punic settlement. Next, we continue to Salambo Tophet and Cothon, or harbour, a testament to Carthage’s famous maritime might, the Roman Antonine Baths.

Day Three | Tunis We visit the renowned Bardo Museum, housed in a historic Beylical palace. It features one of the world’s top mosaic collections, including the Virgil and Odysseus mosaics. Later, we head south of Tunis to examine a section of the Carthage aqueduct at Jebel Oust, then explore Oudna, a city founded by Emperor Augustus.

Day Four | Dougga We drive west to Dougga stopping at Testour, a 17th-century town established by Jewish and Muslim people fleeing the Inquisition. After lunch, we explore Dougga, its bathhouses, sanctuaries, theatre and temples.

Day Five | Chemtou - Bulla Regia

Dr Farès K Moussa Specialising in religious art and artistic practice, Farès has both written and researched on Romans and Phoenicians in Tunisia, Libya, Morocco and Sardinia, as well as on the subject of prehistoric rock art. Join Farès on our 14th April departure.

Tony O’Connor A specialist in the Roman Empire, Tony has excavated widely across Britain, Europe and North Africa. He first led a tour for Andante over 10 years ago and he just gets better and better! Join Tony on our 22nd October departure.

Day Seven | El Djem Heading southeast to El Djem, originally the Numidian city Thysdrus, we find a wealthy olive oil hub in the 2nd century AD. Next, we visit the Museum of El Djem, showcasing Tunisia’s finest mosaics and Roman townhouse foundations in its gardens. Returning to Kairouan, we explore the Great Mosque and wander through the Medina’s winding streets, shops and courtyard houses.

Day Eight | Kairouan - Hammamet We start in Kairouan at the viewpoint over the Aghlabid pools, 9th-century reservoirs once praised by Arab geographers for their grandeur. Next, we visit the Barber Mosque, the burial site of Abu Zama El Belaoui. In the afternoon, we head north to Sousse. The Sousse Museum showcases exceptional mosaics, especially from the Roman period when Hadrumetum thrived through trade. We then continue north to Hammamet.

Day Nine | Kerkouane

Day Six | Dougga - Kairouan

We travel along the Cap Bon coastline to Kerkouane, a UNESCO-listed site from the 7th to 3rd century BCE, abandoned after the First Punic War. We visit the site museum with remains from the necropolis. After lunch, we head to Nabeul to visit its small museum before returning to the hotel

We head southwest to the charming site of Thuburbo Majus, originally Punic and later a Roman veteran colony. Highlights include the forum with

We return to Tunis airport for our onward flight to London Gatwick.

We drive to Chemtou in the Tunisian hills where we see the quarries which produced famous Numidian marble. Next we visit nearby Bulla Regia and its well-preserved subterranean houses.

the Capitolium, Winter and Summer Baths, the Palaestra of Petronius and a notable latrine. We also visit Punic-flavoured temples: the Temple of Baalit and the Temple of Caelestis. In the afternoon, we travel to Kairouan, Tunisia’s key religious city, founded by the Umayyads in the 7th century AD.

YOUR EXPERT GUIDES

Day Ten | Hammamet - Tunis - UK

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Included travel • Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 3 nights' in The Residence Tunis, 2 nights' in the Hôtel Thugga, Teboursouk, 2 nights' in the Hotel La Kasbah Kairouan, and 2 nights' in The Sinbad Hotel, Hammamet

Culinary inclusions • 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 8 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 14th - 23rd Apr 22nd - 31st Oct

Twin/Dbl Share £3,695 £3,695

SS £475 £475

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/acrt Image: El Djem

The Archaeology of Roman Istria

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Exploring idyllic Croatia 5 DAYS FROM £2,825pp

Moderate

The idyllic peninsula of Istria, with its staggeringly beautiful coastline, has a rich history linking it to the Veneti and is now famed for its wonderful ancient ruins as well as its beautiful Venetian cities. This tour brings different layers of history to life, for a memorable journey through Istria’s captivating past.

Included travel

Day One - UK - Pula | Day Two - Pula - Vizula | Day Three - Monkodonja & Porec Day Four - Trieste | Day Five - Pula - UK

• 2 nights’ in the Park Plaza Histria Pula and 2 nights’ in the Hotel Continentale, Trieste

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Visit Pula with its staggering collection of Roman ruins, including its impressive amphitheatre and stunning Temple of Augustus

Examine the Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč, a stunning early Byzantine church with a magnificent array of shimmering mosaics Image: Pula amphitheatre

HI G H LIG

RelaxedKYRENIA

Dates & prices per person Date 23rd - 27th May

Twin/Dbl Share £2,825

SS £450

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aris

Terry Richardson Terry Richardson has a university background in ancient history and classical civilisation. Terry is the author of numerous renowned guide books on the country, including Rough Guide Istanbul, Pocket Rough Guide Istanbul and Rough Guide Turkey.

7 DAYS FROM £3,990pp

Included travel

Beautiful Cyprus, legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, has attracted many suitors over the years. Based at Kyrenia’s harbour, explore the north’s archaeological sites, from the ancient port city of Soli with Roman mosaics to St. Hilarion fortress on the mountain range. The landscape tells of successive civilizations, set against Mediterranean waters and the rugged northern Cypriot coast. Day One - UK - Larnaca - Kyrenia | Day Two - Kyrenia | Day Three - Bellapais Abbey & Castle of St. Hilarion | Day Four - Soli & Vouni | Day Five - Kyrenia | Day Six - Salamis & Famagusta Day Seven - Nicosia - Larnaca - UK

Explore the castles of the Templars who sought refuge in the Kingdom of Cyprus in 1291 after the fall of Acre Visit the lovely village of Bellapais where Lawrence Durrell once lived and wrote Enjoy the wonderful Greco-Roman remains of Salamis situated on the coast

• Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 6 nights’ at The Colony Hotel Arkin or similar

Culinary inclusions • 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 6 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Image: Bellapais Abbey

• 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 3 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Traders to Crusaders

Moderate

Accommodation Culinary inclusions

View the Roman ruins in the elegant city of Trieste, including a stunning theatre and the remains of a forum

• Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Date 4th - 10th Oct

Twin/Dbl Share £3,990

SS £495

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/arky To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Viking Homelands

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Germany, Denmark and Sweden 11 DAYS FROM £7,480pp

Dr Brian Ayers An expert in medieval urban archaeology, Brian is Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of East Anglia. He is interested in the origins and the development of towns on both sites of the North Sea during the early medieval period.

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

The Vikings were the greatest seafarers, raiders and traders of the Early Middle Ages. Far from being a race of unwashed barbarians, they presided over a trading network which extended from Greenland to Baghdad. Following in the Vikings’ footsteps, we make our own epic voyage starting in Germany, travelling across Denmark and culminating in Sweden. Day One UK - Hamburg - Aarhus | Day Two Ribe, Jelling & Ravning Enge | Day Three Fyrkat & Lindholm Hoje | Day Four Aarhus - Ladby - Copenhagen | Day Five Gammel Lejre & Roskilde Day Six Copenhagen | Day Seven Copenhagen - Stockholm | Day Eight Anundshög & Uppsala Day Nine Sigtuna & Stockholm | Day Ten Birka | Day Eleven - Stockholm - UK

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Enjoy the Viking Festival at Trelleborg with its craft workshops, re-enactors and Viking battles

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View the famous Viking longships at Roskilde, the best-preserved collection in Scandinavia

Explore Gamla Uppsala with its three huge royal burial mounds that legend attributes to kings Aun, Egil and Adlis Image: Roskilde Viking Ship Museum

HI G H LIG

RelaxedTRIER Archaeology on the Moselle

Easy

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 3 nights’ in the Comwell Aarhus, Aarhus, 3 nights’ in the Copenhagen Strand, Copenhagen and 4 nights’ in the Hotel Kung Carl, Stockholm

Culinary inclusions • 11 breakfasts, 11 lunches & 10 dinners • Water with all meals, tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 14th - 24th Jul 4th - 14th Sep

Twin/Dbl Share £7,480 £7,480

SS £1,105 £1,105

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aval

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Tony Wilmott Senior Archaeologist with Historic England, Tony has directed many excavations, and published several books and many articles in archaeological journals. He specialises in the Roman periods, with a particular interest in the Roman military.

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

7 DAYS FROM £3,445pp

• Expert Guide Lecturer & Professional Tour Manager • Entries to all sites as per the itinerary • Andante Field notes • All taxes & gratuities to local staff (drivers, waiters, site custodians)

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Nestled in the picturesque Moselle Valley, Trier was an important provincial capital in Roman times, known as Augusta Treverorum; it was the residence of emperors, a centre of trade and the largest market in an ancient wine-growing area. Today, still surrounded by vineyards, this ancient city boasts an extraordinary concentration of remarkably preserved Roman monuments, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.

Accommodation

• 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 5 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS Explore the extraordinary Aula Palatina and Porta Nigra, late antique sites which are largely intact Admire the gladiator mosaic at the Villa Nennig, which depicts bloody scenes from the arena Discover the region’s Celtic origins at Otzenhausen, one of the largest Celtic hillforts in the world

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

• 6 nights’ at the Hotel Park Plaza Trier

Culinary inclusions

Dates & prices per person Date 7th - 13th Jul

Twin/Dbl Share £3,445

SS £335

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/arti Image: Liebfrauenkirche

Warsaw to Danzig

Palaces, Museums and Teutonic Knights 8 DAYS FROM £3,640pp

Easy

Join us on an escorted tour across Poland, from Warsaw to Danzig (Gdansk), exploring palaces, museums and the legacy of the Teutonic Knights. We start in Warsaw with a tour of the Old Town and key museums, then visit the medieval city of Toruń. In Gdansk, we discover Malbork Castle and the city’s rich history before enjoying Oliwa’s Basilica and its museums. A perfect blend of culture, history and stunning architecture awaits you on this unforgettable journey.

HIG H LIG

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YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Tom Abbott An art and architecture historian whose expertise is wide ranging, from the Baroque and Rococo, to modern and contemporary.

Discover Warsaw, a city where historical charm and cutting edge design converge Malbork Castle, the enormous structure built by the Teutonic Knights Explore the extensive Maritime Museum in Gdansk on Otowianka Island

HI G H LIG

Day One | UK - Warsaw

Day Five | Malbork Castle - Gdańsk

We fly into Warsaw from London Heathrow and transfer to our hotel where we stay for the next three nights.

Today, we explore Malbork Castle, a fortress built by the Teutonic Knights, revealing its strategic significance and historical role. The museum showcases medieval artefacts, offering a glimpse into the knights’ lives. In the afternoon, we drive to Gdańsk, our base for the next three nights.

Day Two | Warsaw Old Town - Royal Castle Museum In Warsaw, we start with a walking tour of the charming Old Town, a UNESCO site with colourful townhouses and cobbled streets. Highlights include the Market Square and Royal Square, showcasing grand architecture and historic landmarks. Later, we visit the Royal Castle Museum, former home of Polish monarchs, to admire its lavish interiors and artworks. We also explore St. John’s Archcathedral, a Gothic gem with historic royal tombs.

Day Three | National Museum - Jewish Museum Day two in Warsaw explores its rich culture and history. The morning begins at the National Museum, showcasing Polish and European art, from medieval works to modern pieces like the Battle of Grunwald. In the afternoon, the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews highlights Jewish history in Poland, celebrating their cultural contributions and resilience.

Day Four | Scenic Drive to Toruń - Toruń Old Town After breakfast, we leave Warsaw for Toruń, known for its medieval charm and Gothic architecture. In the Old Town, we explore landmarks like the 13thcentury Teutonic Castle, the Old Town Hall with Gothic design and great views, and the Town Hall Art Museum. The Cathedral of St John the Baptist and Church of St Mary provide serene spots for reflection. Image: Warsaw & World War Two Museum, Gdansk

Day Six | Guided Walking Tour of Gdańsk Maritime & World War 2 Museum Our day in Gdańsk begins with a guided walk,

exploring the historic Golden Gate and Long Lane. We visit the Artus Court Museum, reflecting Gdansk’s trading past, and the awe-inspiring St. Mary’s Basilica with its intricate interiors. The Uphagen House Museum offers a glimpse into 18th-century Gdansk. In the afternoon, we explore the Historic Crane and cross the river to the Maritime Museum, diving into the city’s maritime heritage. Our final stop is the World War Two Museum, offering a comprehensive account of Gdansk’s role during the war.

Day Seven | Solidarity Museum - Basilica Oliwa We visit the Solidarity Museum, dedicated to the Solidarity movement, offering insights into the fight for freedom in Poland. Later, we travel to Oliwa to visit the Basilica Oliwa, renowned for its Gothic architecture and serene setting.

Day Eight | Amber Museum - UK Our final day includes a visit to the Amber Museum, showcasing amber artefacts and offering a captivating end to our Polish journey. We then transfer to Warsaw Airport for our flight back to London Heathrow.

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 3 nights’ in the Sofitel Victoria Warsaw, 1 night in the Hotel 1231, Toruń and 3 nights’ in the Hotel Gdańsk Boutique, Gdańsk

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 24th - 31st Aug

Twin/Dbl Share £3,640

SS £495

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/apol

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Berlin - Beyond the Wall

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

The highs and lows of a city divided and reunited 5 DAYS FROM £2,565pp

Nick Jackson

£0 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT PLACES AVAILABLE

Easy

A graduate of the Institute of Archaeology at UCL, Nick is an archaeologist and historian with over 20 years of excavation experience.

Enjoy the rich flavour of the region’s past and present, from its royal Prussian palaces to its place in Nazi fantasies, and explore its role as a hub of both socialist cultures and radical counter cultures. Berlin has been the nexus for so many pivotal moments in European history and its stories are simply fascinating. Join our expert Guide Lecturer on visits to the city’s most significant and historic sites and museums.

Included travel

Day One - UK - Berlin | Day Two | Berlin Museum Island | Day Three - Sanssouci - Cecilienhof Day Four - Berlin - Wittenberg | Day Five - Berlin - UK

Culinary inclusions

Explore the city with a long-term resident and experienced archaeologist

S • TOU

HIG H LIG Pay a visit to Sanssouci, Frederick the Great’s Rococo summer palace

Accommodation • 4 nights’ in the Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte • 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 4 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

• Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

See Berlin’s iconic sites, including as the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie

Image: Reichstag

Dates & prices per person Date 20th - 24th Aug 3rd - 7th Dec

Twin/Dbl Share £2,565 £2,660

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/asbb

HI G H LIG

Frontier Lands of Romania

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

10 DAYS FROM £4,270pp

A researcher and lecturer at the University of Alba Iulia in Romania, Doru is a specialist in Roman archaeology and has also supervised an array of fascinating excavations..

From the Dacians to Dracula

Moderate

SS £295 £0 £295 £0

Dr Doru Bogdan

Romania reveals an under-explored historical narrative with diverse remains. This tour visits Greek colonies, notably ancient Tomis on the Black Sea, Roman ruins including Adamclisi’s victory monument, and Bran Castle, home of Vlad Dracul. Expert guide Dr Doru Bogdan offers in-depth knowledge. Day One - UK - Bucharest - Constanta | Day Two - Constanta | Day Three - Histria Day Four - Constanta - Adamclisi - Brasov | Day Five - Brasov - Bran - Hunedoara | Day Six Sarmizegetusa, Costesti & Orastie | Day Seven - Hunedoara - Corvin - Sarmisegetuza - Sibiu | Day Eight - Sibiu - Bucharest | Day Nine - Bucharest | Day Ten - Bucharest - UK

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Adventure off road into the Transylvanian Mountains to the UNESCO sites of Sarmizegetusa Regia and Costesti Investigate the ruins at Histria, ancient Milesian trading colony on the shores of the Black Sea Discover the 15th-century Gothic magnificence of Corvin Castle at Hunedoara

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 3 nights’ at a hotel in Constanta, 1 night at a hotel in Brasov, 2 nights’ at a hotel in Hunedoara, 1 night at a hotel in Sibiu and 2 nights’ in a hotel in Bucharest

Culinary inclusions • 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches & 9 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 12th - 21st Sep

Twin/Dbl Share £4,270

SS £495

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/armn Image: Bran Castle

Rock Art & Human Origins

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Northern Spain and the Pyrenees

Dr Paul Bahn

10 DAYS FROM £4,695pp

The world’s leading archaeologist on prehistoric rock art, Paul is one of our best-known Guide Lecturers.

Moderate

Included travel

The rock art of northern Spain and the Pyrenees reveals early human life. Sites like Altamira, El Castillo, and Ekain show cognitive and cultural development. We also visit caves in southwest France, including Grotte de Bédeilhac, Mas d’Azil, and Niaux, where prehistoric echoes remain. Led by expert guides, we enjoy exclusive access for a truly memorable experience. Day One - UK - Bilbao | Day Two - Atapeurca & Burgos | Day Three - Bilbao - Santillana del Mar Day Four - Tito Bustillo & Altamira | Day Five - Puenta Visego - San Sebastian | Day Six - Guggenheim & Ekain | Day Seven - San Sebastien - Pau - St. Girons | Day Eight - Ekain - San Sebastian | Day Nine Grotte du Mas D’Azil & Bédeilhac | Day Ten- St. Girons - Toulouse - UK

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Visit the spectacular cave at Tito Bustillo and admire its images, both painted and engraved Examine the contrast between ancient art seen in the caves themselves and the modern art on display at the world-renowned Guggenheim in vibrant Bilbao Pay a memorable visit to the extraordinary facsimile of Altamira Cave, widely regarded as the Sistine Chapel of cave art

HI G H LIG

Image: Bédeilhac

Hidden Paris

Accommodation • 2 nights’ in the Hotel Abando, Bilboa, 2 nights’ in the Hotel Colonial de Santillana, Santillana del Mar, 2 nights’ in Hotel Zenit Convento San Martín and 3 nights’ in the Hôtel La Cachette de Nina, St. Giron

Culinary inclusions • 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches & 9 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 11th - 20th May

Twin/Dbl Share £4,695

SS £990

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/acav

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Peek beyond the famous landmarks and explore the secret archaeology 6 DAYS FROM £2,870pp

• A flight from London Gatwick to Bilbao & Toulouse to London Heathrow, private group transfers to/ from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Moderate

John Shepherd Winner of the Wanderlust World Guide Award - History & Culture 2023, John has worked extensively in the field in Europe as an archaeologist, including France, Italy and Bulgaria.

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

The tree-lined boulevards, elegant architecture and cobbled riverbanks along the silvery Seine have made Paris one of the most recognisable and romantic cities in Europe. First-time visitors are understandably impressed by its historic monuments, but peek beyond the famous landmarks and you will see another side of Paris to which only the most curious are privy. Day One - UK - Paris | Day Two - Sainte Chapelle & Musée de Louvre Day Three - Egouts & Saint-Germain-en-Laye | Day Four - Sacré Coeur & Musée de Montmartre Day Five - Arènes de Lutèce & Catacombes de Paris | Day Six - Paris - UK

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Explore the Conciergerie, formerly part of the palace complex but repurposed during the Revolution as tribunal and prison Admire the architectural masterpiece of Sainte Chapelle, one of the greatest examples of Gothic art Enjoy the ultimate hidden attraction - the subterranean Catacombes de Paris

HI G H LIG

Image: Notre Dame; Stryge & demon

Included travel • Return train travel from London St. Pancras & all local transport including the Paris Metro

Accommodation • 6 nights’ at a hotel in Paris

Culinary inclusions • 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 5 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 12th - 17th May

Twin/Dbl Share £2,870

SS £445

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/ahpa

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

RelaxedNICE Capital of the French Riveira

Easy

7 DAYS FROM £3,255pp

A few days in Nice, celebrated for its captivating azure coastline, could easily be spent simply people-watching and enjoying its world-famous promenade. Yet, 2,000 years ago, this playground of the rich was situated on the major highway from Gaul to Rome, the Via Julia Augusta, and its surrounds are therefore rich in archaeology and ancient ruins, serving as a wonderful base for a relaxed exploration of the Côte d'Azur.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Enjoy the fragrant gardens and marvellous views of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild Discover the extraordinary painted ceiling of the 13th-century cathedral at Fréjus Cross the border into Italy and discover two wonderful sites on the Ligurian coast

Day One | UK - Nice

Day Four | Beaulieu-sur-Mer

We fly from London Gatwick to Nice and transfer to our hotel.

This morning, we drive to Beaulieu-sur-Mer, once a popular winter resort for the international elite. Here we visit Villa Kerylos, a recreation of an ancient Greek villa from the time of Pericles, complete with period furniture, frescoes and mosaics. Afterwards we ascend to the Trophée des Alpes, a 7th-century monument bult in 6BCE to celebrate the victory of Emperor Augustus over the mountain tribes. Our afternoon is free to either explore more locally or relax back at our hotel.

Day Two | Nice & St. Jean Cap Ferrat This morning we explore the extensive archaeological zone in Nice in the Cimiez neighbourhood, visiting the ruins of the amphitheatre and bath complex and visit the Archaeological Museum. In the afternoon we drive to the charming St. Jean Cap Ferrat to discover the villa and gardens of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. This glorious pale pink villa, now a museum, contains the eclectic collections of the Baroness de Rothschild and some of the artefacts associated with Marie-Antoinette, including paintings by Monet and Renoir.

Day Three | Fréjus Today we enjoy a lovely drive east along the coast to the pretty town of Fréjus. Formerly Forum Julii, this small town was one of Caesar’s colonies and served as a naval port until the 5th century. We see the Arènes de Fréjus, the late 1st century AD amphitheatre, the remains of the aqueduct, the Porte des Gaules, the best-preserved of the four gates that once marked the city's Roman enclosure, and the excellent Archaeological Museum. Before returning to Nice we also visit the lovely 13thcentury cathedral.

Day Five | Nice Today is free to explore as you wish. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, visit some of the wonderful galleries and city museums or wander the Old Town, where boutiques offer everything from handmade fruit jellies to antique chinoiserie.

Day Six | Albintimilium & Ventimiglia We cross the border into Italy today, where we visit the Roman town of Albintimilium. The remains of this ancient Roman city date back to the 1st century AD and bear witness to a time when this part of Liguria was an important cultural and economic centre in the Roman Empire. Later, we continue to Ventimiglia to visit the archaeological museum, housed in the majestic Fort Annunziata with a spectacular view of the town and the coast.

Day Seven | Nice - UK We return to Nice Airport for our flight back to London Gatwick.

To bookVilla a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk 22 Image: Ephrussi de Rothschildor call 01722 705 231

John Shepherd Winner of the Wanderlust World Guide Award - History & Culture 2023, John has worked extensively in the field in Europe.

Included travel • Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 6 nights’ at the Hotel NH Nice

Culinary inclusions • 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 5 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 18th - 24th May

Twin/Dbl Share £3,255

SS £625

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/arni Image: Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

RelaxedSPLIT Diocletian’s legacy

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE John Shepherd Winner of the Wanderlust World Guide Award - History & Culture 2023, John has worked extensively in the field in Europe.

8 DAYS FROM £4,080pp

Easy

Split is one of the Mediterranean’s most remarkable coastal cities. At its core sits Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that isn’t merely a ruin but a vibrant, inhabited city within ancient walls. Wandering its serpentine streets, discovering Roman, medieval and Renaissance architecture offers a uniquely immersive historical experience unlike anywhere else.

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 7 nights’ in the Hotel Park Split

Culinary inclusions

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 6 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Explore the immense palace of the Emperor Diocletian - one of the best preserved anywhere in the Empire

Dates & prices per person

Discover Klis fortress, dramatically perched on a rocky eminence between the Kozjak and Mosor mountains

Date 6th - 13th Oct

Relax with plenty of free time and enjoy a blend of rich history, stunning coastal scenery and an excellent local food scene Image: Split Cathedral

Serbia

Twin/Dbl Share £4,080

SS £655

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/arsp

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Land of the Iron Emperors 8 DAYS FROM £3,735pp

Oliver Gilkes One of our longest-standing Guide Lecturers, Oliver has worked as a field and museum archaeologist in the UK, Albania and Italy. Oliver is considered one of just a handful of experts on Albanian archaeology in the UK.

Moderate

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

The vast lands of the Danube were home to two great European peoples, the Illyrians and the Serbs. This tour takes us off the beaten track, uncovering a wealth of iconic archaeological sites - from remote prehistory until the birth of modern Europe - they are not to be missed!

Accommodation

Culinary inclusions

HIG H LIG

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Image: Golubac Fortress

• 4 nights’ in the Lumiere Hotel, Belgrade, 1 night in the Hotel Aquastar Danube, Kladovo and 2 nights’ in the New City Hotel, Nis • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Explore Vinča, the Danube-side cradle of Neolithic civilisation

Date 11th - 18th May

Visit extraordinary Gamzigrad, Emperor Galerius’ retirement home Visit Golubac and other fortresses on the banks of the mighty Danube

Twin/Dbl Share £3,735

SS £415

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aser

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Egypt - New Museums & Discoveries

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Recently excavated tombs and new museums in Cairo and Alexandria

Dr Elizabeth Bloxam

7 DAYS FROM £4,695pp

Elizabeth is Visiting Professor of Egyptology at North East Normal University, China.

Easy

Archaeology in Egypt is seeing another Golden Age, this time led by local Egyptians themselves. This tour focuses on these new discoveries from the recently excavated tombs in Saqqara to the newly renovated Greco Romano Museum in Alexandria and the long-awaited, much anticipated brand new Grand Egyptian Museum at Giza. Returning to these sites in the engaging company of our experienced excavators and Egyptologists is a treat not to be missed. Day One - UK - Cairo | Day Two - Saqqara | Day Three - Cairo - Alexandria | Day Four - Alexandria Day Five - Abu Sir - Cairo | Day Six - Giza | Day Seven - Cairo - UK

Accommodation • 4 nights’ in the Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah, Cairo, and 2 nights’ in the Helnan Royal Palestine Hotel or similar, Alexandria

Culinary inclusions • 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 5 dinners (plus 1 snack in hotel room if arriving late evening) • Water with all meals, tea or coffee with dinner

In expert company, explore the Imhotep Museum at Saqqara and Greco Roman Museum in Alexandria, both recently opened

Date 12th - 18th Oct

New tomb discoveries in Saqqara including the Tomb of Mehu and the Tomb of Maia

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aenm

Visit the long-awaited and much-anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum at Giza

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• Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

HIG H LIG

Included travel

Image: Giza

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The Archaeology of Upper Egypt The Land of Ta Shemau

12 DAYS FROM £8,345pp

Moderate

Dates & prices per person Twin/Dbl Share £4,695

SS £595

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Dr Elizabeth Bloxam Elizabeth is Visiting Professor of Egyptology at North East Normal University, China.

Included travel

This specialised journey through Upper Egypt combines some of these most celebrated monuments with less common archaeological treasures offering perspectives beyond the typical tourist route. Travelling between Esna and Aswan in a traditional dahabiya, we are able to access several sites which are inaccessible by bigger boats and enjoy the slow pace and wonderful scenes of life on the river at close hand. Day One - UK - Luxor | Day Two - Karnak & Luxor Museum | Day Three - Valley of the Kings | Day Four - Hatshepsut - Medinet Habu | Day Five - Luxor - Esna | Day Six - Esna - El Kab - Edfu | Day Seven - Gebel el Silsila - Kom Ombo | Day Eight - Abu Simbel | Day Nine - Philae | Day Ten - Sehel - Elephantine Islands Day Eleven - Aswan - Cairo | Day Twelve - Cairo - UK

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Accommodation • 4 nights’ at a hotel in Luxor, 5 nights’ on a private Dahabiya boat charter and 2 nights’ at a hotel in Cairo

Culinary inclusions • 11 breakfasts, 11 lunches & 11 dinners • At hotels: water with all meals, tea or coffee with dinner • On the Dahabiya: water, soft drinks, juices, tea and coffee served throughout the day

Dates & prices per person

HIG H LIG

S • TOU

• Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Discover the ‘Valley of the Monkeys’ and the Tomb of Ay noted for its scenes of hunting in the marshes Enjoy special access to the Tomb of Amenhotep III, a huge tomb in a secluded part of the Valley of the Kings Explore Sehel Island, where we find some of the earliest and best-preserved examples of ancient Egyptian writing

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

16th - 27th Nov

Twin/Dbl Share

Outside Cabin - Twin/Dbl £8,345 Suite - Double £8,645

SS £1,135 £1,200

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aaue Image: Tomb of Pharaoh Seti I

Byzantium & Ottoman Istanbul

YOUR EXPERT GUIDES

A glittering jewel on the Bosphorus 7 DAYS FROM £4,270pp

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES Founded as Byzantium, famed as Constantinople, Istanbul straddles two continents and has played a pivotal role in world history. One of the world’s most delightful and complex cities, we explore major monuments and take a Bosphorus boat ride affording views of its skyline broken by hundreds of slender minarets. The bustle, hustle, scents and sounds are unforgettable. Day One - UK - Istanbul | Day Two | Hagia Sophia & Spice Bazaar | Day Three - Taksim Square & Galata Day Four - Walls of Theodosius & Palace of Porphyrogenitus | Day Five - Hagia Eirene & Bosphorus Day Six - Topkapi Palace & Blue Mosque | Day Seven - Istanbul - UK

S • TOU

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 6 nights’ in the AlQasr Metropole Hotel, Amman, and 3 nights’ in the Petra Moon Hotel, Petra

Culinary inclusions

HIG H LIG

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Explore the vast and rambling Topkapi Palace, a palace like none you will ever have seen

• 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 6 dinners • Water with all meals, tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Enjoy an afternoon on the waters of the Bosphorus to put the city in its geographical context

Date 2nd - 8th Nov

Soak up stunning panoramic views from the viewing platform of the Galata Tower

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aboi

Image: Galata Bridge

HI G H LIG

Jordan - Petra & the Desert Fortresses Spend two days in the evocative rock-cut city of Petra 10 DAYS FROM £4,580pp

Twin/Dbl Share £4,270

SS £675

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Nick Jackson A graduate of the Institute of Archaeology at UCL, Nick is an archaeologist and historian with over 20 years of excavation experience.

Moderate

Nothing can prepare you for Petra - the scale, the colours and the grandeur. Lively, cosmopolitan and rich, with goods from every corner of the world, ancient Petra was an extraordinary city. Its streets were swathed in a fusion of Nabataean and Classical architecture elaborate tombs, colonnaded roads and temples carved into the rose-red rock. Day One - UK - Amman | Day Two - Wadi Seer - Dead Sea - Amman | Day Three - Gadara - Jerash Day Four - Amman | Day Five - Umm al-Jima | Day Six - Umm al-Rasas - Kerak | Days Seven & Eight - Petra Day Nine - Little Petra - Wadi Rum | Day Ten - Amman - UK

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HI G H LIG Image: Petra

Accommodation • 6 nights’ in the AlQasr Metropole Hotel, Amman, and 3 nights’ in the Petra Moon Hotel, Petra

Culinary inclusions • 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches & 8 dinners (plus 1 snack in hotel room if arriving late evening) • Water with all meals, tea or coffee with dinner

Admire the almost lunar-like desert scenery of Wadi Rum

Dates & prices per person

S • TOU

HIG H LIG

• Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Included travel

Discover the mighty crusader castle at Kerak, built in the 12th century

Date 19th - 28th Oct

Visit Jerash, the best preserved (and Jordan’s largest) Roman town in the east, a site that is home to the Oval Plaza and the Corinthian columns of the Temple of Artemis

Twin/Dbl Share £4,580

SS £810

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/ajor

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Turkey: from Çatal Hüyük to Göbekli Tepe A journey through Cappadocia and south east Turkey 14 DAYS FROM £7,380pp

Moderate

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Join us on a vibrant journey across Turkey, from Çatal Hüyük, perhaps the world’s earliest city, to Göbekli Tepe, a groundbreaking early Neolithic complex in Upper Mesopotamia. Explore the surreal geology and distinctive archaeological wonders of Cappadocia—its underground cities, frescoed churches, and ancient ritual sites. This adventure covers an astonishing range of world-class sites—four UNESCO-listed—as we trace the rise and fall of remarkable civilizations that once shaped these lands.

HIG H LIG

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View the extraordinary volcanic landscapes underground cities and rock cut churches in Cappadocia Discover one of the oldest settlements in the world at Çatal Hüyük Visit the excavations at Göbekli Tepe, with megaliths pre-dating Stonehenge by an impressive 7,500 years

HI G H LIG

Day One | UK - Istanbul - Konya We fly to Konya Airport via Istanbul from London Gatwick and transfer to our hotel.

Day Two | Çatal Hüyük & Binbir Kilise We begin with one of the oldest settlements anywhere in the world: Çatal Hüyük. In the afternoon we explore the remote, early Byzantine site of Binbir Kilise complete with Syriac-style churches, monasteries and houses.

Day Three | Konya Before we leave Konya, we visit the Mevlana Museum, the Karatay Madrasa and the Alaeddin Mosque with its typically Selçuk ’forest’ of columns and very early ebony prayer platform. After lunch, we make the long journey to Göreme.

Day Four | Göreme & Sarı Han Caravansary We start the day with a visit to a local co-operative which produces Anatolian rugs and then head out to the Sarıhan Caravansary. After lunch, we continue to the Göreme Open Air Museum.

Day Five | Ilhara Valley & Aşıklı Hüyük We start our explorations of Cappadocia with a visit to the Ihlara Valley. Afterwards, we visit Aşıklı Höyük.

Day Six | Göreme - Derinkuyu - Adana Today we head south, stopping en route at the extraordinary underground city of Derinkuyu. We continue our journey south across the Anatolian plateau before crossing the formidable Taurus range and dropping down to the fertile Cilician Plain to overnight at Adana.

Day Seven | Adana - Karatepe - Gaziantep This morning we visit Adana Archaeology Museum. We continue east and rise into wooded mountains

to visit the eight century BC fortress palace of Karatepe, now located in an archaeological park.

Day Eight | Gaziantep We spend the morning at the Zeugma Mosaic Museum and then head to Halfeti.

enclosures and T-shaped monoliths (250 of them) have been uncovered.

Day Thirteen | Urfa Today we explore Urfa including the Archaeological Museum (bold), the Pools of Abraham and the labyrinthine bazaar.

Day Fourteen | Şanlıurfa - Istanbul - UK After breakfast this morning we head to Şanlıurfa airport for our return journey to London Gatwick.

Day Nine | Gaziantep - Adiyaman We start the day today with a walk around historic Gaziantep and explore the citadel. In the afternoon we take the long but scenic road north to overnight at Adiyaman, at the foot of Mount Nemrut.

Day Ten | Mount Nemrut & Adiyaman We spend the day with the rulers and monuments of the Commagenian kingdom, beginning at the Roman bridge at Cendere. After lunch we continue to the remote hilltop site of Mount Nemrut where Antiochus I had a monumental sanctuary constructed to promote his rule, comprising the world’s largest tumulus and a collection of huge statues of the gods and of himself.

Included travel • Return flights from London Gatwick, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation

Today we explore the recently discovered Neolithic site of Sayburc (bold).

• 2 nights’ in the Dedeman Konya Hotel & Convention Center, Konya, 3 nights’ in the Utopia Cave Cappadocia Hotel, Ürgüp, 1 night in the Divan Adana Hotel, Adana, 2 nights’ in the Divan Gaziantep Hotel, Gaziantep, 2 nights’ in the Park Dedeman Adıyaman, and 3 nights’ in the DoubleTree by Hilton Şanliurfa

Day Twelve | Göbekli Tepe & Karahan Tepe

Culinary inclusions

Day Eleven | Adiyaman - Sayburc

Our morning is dedicated to the excavations at Göbekli Tepe, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018. Situated on top of a rounded hill in the anti-Taurus mountains a few miles northeast of Şanlıurfa, this spectacular early Neolithic complex, an extraordinary series of structures centred on carved megaliths up to 5 metres in height. In the afternoon we continue further east and south to the remote site of Karahantepe, where a series of circular

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

• 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches & 13 dinners • Water with all meals, tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date Twin/Dbl Share 27th Apr - 10th May £7,380 12th - 25th Oct £7,480

SS £1,995 £1,995

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/acse Image: Göreme

Oman

On the frankincense trail 11 DAYS FROM £6,665pp

Moderate

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Nick Jackson

Oman has been a crossroads of commerce for millennia and its archaeology has only recently begun to be understood. During this tour we travel from the mountains of Muscat to the beaches of Salalah, we explore the hub of Classical Arabia Felix, the great incense city of Sumhuram, with a special drive out into the Empty Quarter to take us to the site of the lost city of Ubar, entrepot of the Frankincense trade.

HIG H LIG

S • TOU

Follow in the footsteps of the ancient caravans as we explore rock art and a range of sites Explore the striking Bronze Age tombs at Bat, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Enjoy beautiful contrasting landscapes from the red gold dunes of the Wahabi desert to craggy mountains and the glittering blue Arabian Sea

HI G H LIG

Day One | UK - Muscat

Day Five | Wadi Tanuf, Nizwa, Jabrin & Salut

We fly from London Heathrow on an overnight flight to Muscat.

We visit Wadi Tanuf, set against the Al Hajar mountains, to see rock art and Hafit tombs. In Nizwa, an ancient trade centre and birthplace of Islam, we explore the Round Tower Fort and souq, famous for hand-carved khanjars and silver jewellery. After lunch, we drive to Jabrin, a 17thcentury fortified palace and centre of Islamic scholarship. We conclude in Salut, an archaeological site with ancient ruins and fortifications.

Day Two | Muscat Our exploration begins in Muscat, a city of historic significance, noted by Ptolemy in the 2nd century and once part of the Sassanid Persian Empire. Muscat was a key trading hub on the Gulf of Oman and Indian Oceans. Held by the Portuguese for a century, it became a centre of the Omani Empire from the 17th century, overcoming the Imam princes of Nizwa to rule Oman. In the morning, we visit the Grand Mosque and wander the labyrinthine alleyways of Muttrah Souq. The afternoon takes us to the Al Alam Palace, followed by the National Museum of the Sultanate of Oman, which presents the nation’s heritage from ancient times to the present.

Day Six | Nizwa - Lizq - Wahiba Sands Our day begins at Lizq, with pottery similar to Early Iron Age sites. We continue to Wahiba Sands, a desert region inhabited by Bani Wahiba, Al-Harthy, and Al-Hinawy tribes. The northern Wahiba is dominated by parallel-layered dunes. We spend the night at a desert camp, admiring the starry Arabian night sky.

Day Three | Muscat - Nizwa

Day Seven | Wahiba Sands - Muscat - Salalah

Our journey continues in 4x4s through date palm orchards to Al Hazm Fort Al Ayn and the UNESCO Site of Bat, where we explore Bronze Age beehive tombs, part of a copper mining settlement from the Umm-an Nar culture of the 3rd millennium BC. This region was crucial in early metallurgy, with ore exported to Mesopotamia. We visit the historic walled town of Nizwa for the night.

We depart the desert for Muscat, catching a flight to Salalah, Dhofar’s historic centre and the source of the frankincense trade, which flourished for centuries, driving the construction of cities, forts, and irrigation systems in the desert.

Day Four | Al Hamra, Wadi Ghul, Wadi Nakhar & Misfah We travel to Al Hamra, with its old mud houses surrounded by lush date plantations. We proceed to Wadi Ghul, home to traditional Omani weavers, and Wadi Nakher, Oman’s deepest canyon, to see rock art and Bronze Age tombs. In Misfah, we picnic in a village with stone houses clinging to the mountain cliff, and explore the Falaj irrigation system. Image: UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bat

Day Eight | Sumhuram, Wadi Darbat & Mirbat Our day begins at Khor Rori Creek and Sumhuram, a former capital of the frankincense trade. After visiting the museum, we head to Wadi Darbat for lunch, enjoying views of waterfalls, lakes, and wildlife. In Mirbat, we explore old houses known for woodcarvings and reflect on the 197 military campaign. We return to Salalah, stopping at Bin Ali’s Tomb.

Day Nine | Hanum, Empty Quarter & Ubar Our day starts at Hanun, a depot along the frankincense routes, before entering Rub Al Khali,

A graduate of the Institute of Archaeology at UCL, Nick is an archaeologist and historian with over 20 years of excavation experience.

the Empty Quarter, and the legendary city of Ubar. Once a crossroads of the frankincense trade, Ubar vanished beneath the sands, becoming a place of myth. An expedition in 1992 revealed an ancient spring, possibly the origin of the myth. We visit a Frankincense tree plantation en route back to Salalah.

Day Ten | Al Balid & Nabi Ayoub We explore Al Balid, the ancient port city of Zafar, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Land of Frankincense. We walk among ruins of watchtowers and mosques, and visit the site museum with its frankincense collection. In the afternoon we visit the biblical site of Nabi Ayoub before taking a return flight back to Muscat.

Day Eleven | Muscat - UK We transfer to Muscat airport for our onward flight back to London Heathrow.

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 2 nights’ at the Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat, 3 nights’ in the The View, Al Hamra, 1 night at the Arabian Oryx Camp, Al Sharqiyah Sands (Wahiba), and 4 nights’ in the Juweira Boutique Hotel, Salalah

Culinary inclusions • 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 10 dinners • Water with all meals, tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 30th Jan - 9th Feb 13th - 23rd Nov

Twin/Dbl Share £6,665 £6,665

SS £985 £985

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aomn

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

China

Beyond the Great Wall 17 DAYS FROM £6,710pp

Moderate

From Buddhist temples to the gargantuan monuments of imperial ambition, to lesser-known prehistoric settlements, this tour is the story of not one but many Chinas through the ages. Over 17 days, we put the great sites we see into their historical context starting in Beijing, China’s capital. We see the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors and Ming Tombs not just as grand relics, but as products of the time, people and places that led to their creation.

HIG H LIG

S • TOU

Discover China’s remarkable prehistoric archaeology at sites such as Jinsha and Banpo, which tell the story of ordinary people in ancient China Admire the underground army of the life-sized Terracotta Warriors - one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world Explore Luoyang - the cradle of Chinese civilisation - home to Buddhist temples from the 1st century at the outstanding Longmen Grottoes

Dr Iain Shearer Iain is an archaeologist who works across the Middle East, Northern Africa, Central Asia, Caucasus, China, India, Pakistan, USA, Balkans, Europe and the UK.

HI G H LIG

Day One | UK - Beijing

Day Eight | Luoyang - Xi’an

Day Sixteen | Shanghai

We embark on an overnight flight from London Heathrow to Beijing.

Before departing Luoyang, we visit the Ancient Tombs Museum. We then take the train to Xi’an, the Silk Road’s starting point.

We visit Shanghai Museum, renowned for its ancient art collection, followed by a tour of the French Concession.

Day Nine | Xi’an

Day Seventeen | Shanghai - UK

We spend the morning with Xi’an’s Terracotta Army then visit Banpo Neolithic Village, where a 6,500-year-old settlement was unearthed.

We bid farewell to the East and fly home to London Heathrow from Shanghai.

Day Two | Beijing Upon our morning arrival in Beijing, we proceed to our hotel, regroup for lunch and head to the Forbidden City, or Palace Museum. Tickets for the Forbidden City cannot be pre-purchased. If faced with any difficulty, such as long queues, we will opt for a visit to the Imperial Palace.

Day Three | Beijing This morning, we visit Tiananmen Square and National Museum. After lunch, we explore the Temple of Heaven.

Day Four | Beijing We visit the Summer Palace and Fahai Temple at Cuiwei Mountain.

Day Five | Beijing We visit the Ming Dynasty Tombs and The Sacred Way, flanked by carved stone sculptures depicting mythical animals. We then visit the Great Wall at the Mutianyu section.

Day Six | Beijing - Luoyang We take our first high-speed train through the Wei Valley’s fertile plains and hills, arriving in Luoyang in the afternoon, before we visit the Longmen Caves.

Day Seven | Longmen Caves & Shaolin Temple We drive to Dengfeng, visiting the Pagoda Forest and Shaolin Temple, famous for its warrior monks. We will watch Kung Fu performances.

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Day Ten | Xi’an We visit the Han Jingdi Tomb and Shaanxi Provincial History Museum to view Tang Dynasty exhibits.

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

We travel by high-speed train to Chengdu, Sichuan Province’s capital. After lunch, we visit Jinsha, an ancient Shu civilization site.

Day Twelve | Chengdu

Included travel

Day Eleven | Xi’an - Chengdu

We start at Sanxingdui, with artifacts from 17001150 BCE. After lunch, we visit Qingyang Palace, one of the oldest Taoist temples.

Day Thirteen | Chengdu - Wuxin - Suzhou We fly to Wuxin and transfer to Suzhou, famous for its silk and stunning gardens. We visit The Garden of the Humble Administrator, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day Fourteen | Suzhou We visit Suzhou Museum, showcasing 2,500 years of local history. In the afternoon, we visit Shi Zi Lin, or Lion Grove Garden.

• Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 4 nights’ at a hotel in Beijing, 2 nights’ at a hotel in Luoyang, 3 nights at a hotel in Xian, 2 nights’ at a hotel in Chengdu, 2 nights at a hotel in Suzhou, and 2 nights’ at a hotel in Shanghai

Culinary inclusions • 16 breakfasts, 15 lunches & 15 dinners • Water with all meals, tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Day Fifteen | Suzhou - Shanghai

Date 2nd - 18th Sep

We drive to Shanghai, exploring its contrasts with a boat trip along the Huangpu River.

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/acan

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Twin/Dbl Share £6,710

SS £810

Image: Forbidden City

Kazakhstan

A varied and unique journey with rich history, culture and stunning landscapes 13 DAYS FROM £4,795pp

Moderate

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Dr Peter J Brown Dr Peter J Brown is a medieval archaeologist whose fieldwork spans the Middle East, Central Asia, China and Europe, with research on water, trade, and cities.

Kazakhstan presents a majestic landscape - high mountains, green valleys, lake-dotted steppe, western deserts, remote underground mosques and affluent cities. Join us on a varied and unique journey - passing through the lands of the ancient residents of Kazakhstan, and tour wild steppes where nomads lived in harmony with nature.

HIG H LIG

S • TOU

Discover the blue-tiled wonder of the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi View the thousands of petroglyphs decorating the rocks at Tamgaly from the Bronze and Iron Ages Explore the dead city of Sauran, a former hub of the Silk Road which now stands alone amidst the Kazakh Steppe

HI G H LIG

Days One & Two | UK - Almaty

reach Taraz by evening.

After an overnight flight from London Heathrow we arrive in Almaty and transfer to our hotel. After some time to recuperate, we regroup for lunch and an afternoon visit to Panfilov Park, named in honour of a small force of soldiers who blunted the German attack on Moscow in 1941. Alongside its striking memorial, the park includes historical landmarks such as Zenkov Ascension Cathedral and the Museum of Folk Musical Instruments, all explored during our visit.

Day Six | Akyrtas & Taraz

Day Three | Altyn-Emel & Tamgaly-Tas We head north-east to Altyn-Emel, nestled at the base of the Jungar Alatau mountains. Famed for its natural splendour and the Bes-shatyr archaeological site, this area presents Early Iron Age burial mounds (1st millennium BCE), attributed to the Saka people, renowned warriors of the Eurasian steppe (c900200 BCE). Before returning to Almaty, we visit Tamgaly-Tas, home to petroglyphs of Buddha and Burhans with Tibetan inscriptions.

Day Four | Chimbulak We ascend by cable car to Chimbulak in the nearby mountains—a conservation area of remarkable beauty. Here we admire Alpine vistas and Lake Almaty, encircled by conifers, then return to the city for lunch. The afternoon is devoted to the Central State Museum, with its extensive collections in palaeontology, archaeology, and the ethnography of over 100 ethnic groups.

Day Five | Almaty - Tamgaly - Taraz Departing Almaty, we travel towards Taraz, near Uzbekistan’s southern border. En route, we visit Tamgaly, a World Heritage site with extraordinary Bronze Age to medieval petroglyphs—about five thousand in all—depicting aspects of life from the 2nd millennium BCE to the early 20th century. We Image: Almaty city

noting the sophisticated kyariz (underground canal) system. Later, we visit Sygnac, another desert ruin founded in the 4th century AD, before heading to Kyzylorda.

Day Eleven | Kyzylorda - Astana We fly to Astana, Kazakhstan’s modern capital, crafted by world-renowned architects. Situated in the expansive steppe, its existence defies nature’s constraints. Post-lunch, we explore the National Museum, a vast complex with 11 halls showcasing the region’s largest collection.

Day Twelve | Astana

In the morning, we explore the Akyrtas ruins, part of the Serial World Heritage ‘Silk Roads’. This unique walled settlement, likely the Karluk Khans’ palace site from the 8th to 10th centuries AD, extensively utilises stone. Our afternoon is spent in 2,000-year-old Taraz, a pivotal Silk Road city, viewing the medieval city’s remains, a reconstructed caravanserai, and the City Museum.

We dedicate a full day to Astana, visiting key architectural sites like the Bai Terek Observation Tower, the Hezret Sultan Mosque with its grand dome, and the Pyramid Building (Palace of Peace and Harmony) by Sir Norman Foster.

Day Thirteen | Astana - UK This morning we have some free time before proceeding to the airport for our afternoon flight back to London Heathrow.

Day Seven | Shymkent We visit the 12th-century Aysha Bibi mausoleum, believed to be a noblewoman’s tomb, shrouded in 28 legends. We then proceed to Shymkent, associated with Central Asia’s major dynasties. The regional museum offers insights into this illustrious past and the South Kazakhstan region.

Day Eight | Shymkent - Otrar - Turkistan Departing Shymkent, we head to Otrar, a oncegreat Silk Road city where Tamerlane died in 1405. Situated in a transitional zone between nomadic and sedentary cultures, Otrar is crucial to understanding Central Asian history. We spend much of our day here before continuing to Turkistan.

Day Nine | Turkistan Our day is devoted to Turkistan, which flourished post-Otrar’s demise in the 16th and 17th centuries. The city features museums, medieval bathhouses, and the impressive mausoleum commissioned by Tamerlane for Sheikh Khoja Akhmet Yassawi. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003, it mirrors the grandeur of Timurid monuments in Uzbekistan.

Day Ten |Turkistan - Sauran - Kyzylorda We journey north-east to Sauran, once Kazakhstan’s largest city. We explore its adobe walls and ruins,

Included travel • Return flights from London Heathrow, private group transfers to/from the airport and hotel and all local transport aboard a private air-conditioned coach

Accommodation • 3 nights’ at a hotel in Almaty, 2 nights’ at a hotel in Taraz, 1 night at a hotel in Shymkent, 2 nights’ at a hotel in Turkistan, 1 night at a hotel in Kyzylorda and 2 nights’ at a hotel in Astana

Culinary inclusions • 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches & 11 dinners • Water with all meals, tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date Twin/Dbl Share 26th Sep - 8th Oct £4,795

SS £500

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/akaz

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

A Grand Tour of Roman Britain From Conquest to Culture 12 DAYS FROM £5,490pp

Moderate

Roman Britain offers a fascinating window into nearly four centuries of history, from the Claudian invasion of 43 CE to the gradual withdrawal of Roman administration in the early fifth century. This unique tour visits major sites and museums along the length and breadth of the country to explore the process of Romanization—how Celtic Britain adapted to Roman rule through military presence, urban development, and cultural exchange, while local traditions continued to flourish alongside imperial customs.

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Discover Maiden Castle where after more than 2000 years, the earthworks still impress

Tony Wilmott

Day One | London

the remains of Viriconium, one of Roman Britain’s largest cities.

S • TOU

Admire two fabulous villa complexes at Bignor Roman Villa and Fishbourne Palace

S • TOU

HIG H LIG

Visit Caerleon, one of only three permanent Roman legionary fortresses in Roman Britain

HI G H LIG

We gather at our hotel in London this afternoon to begin our journey. First, we visit the British Museum to explore the Roman Britain galleries. Highlights include the Vindolanda tablets, offering a glimpse into life in a Roman auxiliary fort, and the exquisite Bacchic silver platter from the Mildenhall treasure hoard.

Day Two | London - Chichester Today, we visit two splendid Roman residences. Starting at Bignor Roman Villa, we explore its well-preserved rooms and bathhouse, showcasing England’s finest Roman mosaics. In the afternoon, we head to Fishbourne Roman Palace, a vast complex with mosaic floors, hypocaust heating, and formal gardens, likely owned by Tiberius Claudius Togidubnus, a pro-Roman British king.

Day Three | Chichester - Blandford Forum Heading west, we visit Portchester Castle, a key Saxon Shore fort built in the 3rd century AD. Next, we explore Maiden Castle, a monumental Iron Age hill fort with immense earthworks. Our day ends at Dorset Museum, showcasing finds from Sir Mortimer Wheeler’s 1930s excavations.

Day Four | Blandford Forum - Bath

Day Six | Chester - Carlisle In Chester, we visit Deva Victrix, a vital Roman fortress and base for the Twentieth Legion. Highlights include the amphitheatre and Grosvenor Museum. Later, we head north, stopping at Ribchester Roman Museum in the Ribble Valley.

Day Twelve | Edinburgh - London Our tour concludes as we transfer to the station for a high-speed train back to London.

Day Seven | Vindolanda & Corbridge We explore the Stanegate frontier, visiting Vindolanda, renowned for its preserved wooden writing tablets, and the nearby Roman site of Corbridge, with its fascinating museum.

Day Eight | Houseteads & Chesters Today, we explore Hadrian’s Wall. Starting at Housesteads Roman Fort, we walk to Milecastle 37 before visiting the Temple of Mithras at Carrawburgh and Chesters, the most complete Roman cavalry fort in Britain.

Day Nine | Carlisle - Edinburgh Crossing into Scotland, we stop at Trimontium Museum, showcasing finds from Trimontium, a major Roman frontier post. Arriving in Edinburgh, we visit the National Museum of Scotland.

We visit Hod Hill, an Iron Age hill fort adapted by the Romans during Vespasian’s invasion. Continuing north, we reach Bath to explore the Roman Baths, built around natural hot springs revered by the Durotriges tribe long before Roman arrival.

Day Ten | Cramond & Edinburgh

Day Five | Bath - Caerleon - Chester

Day Eleven | Antonine Wall

Crossing into Wales, we visit Caerleon, one of three permanent Roman legionary fortresses in Britain. In the afternoon, we drive to Wroxeter, exploring

We explore the Antonine Wall, visiting Callander Park, Kinneil, Rough Castle with its unique lilia pits, and Bar Hill, the highest fort on the wall.

We visit Cramond, a Roman frontier fort and later chapel site, before returning to Edinburgh for a free afternoon to relax or explore its historical landmarks.

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Included travel • All local transport

Accommodation • 1 night at a hotel in each of the following locations: London, Chichester, Blandford Forum, Bath and Chester, 3 nights’ at a hotel in Carlisle, and 3 nights’ at a hotel in Edinburgh

Culinary inclusions • 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches & 11 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 7th - 18th Sep

Twin/Dbl Share £5,490

SS £995

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/agrb Images : Portchester Castle

The Archaeology & Wildlife of East Anglia From the Broads to Sutton Hoo 8 DAYS FROM £2,990pp

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Oliver Gilkes One of our longest-standing Guide Lecturers, Oliver has worked as a field and museum archaeologist in the UK, Albania and Italy. Oliver is considered one of just a handful of experts on Albanian archaeology in the UK.

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES East Anglia’s distinctive character is shaped by its geography: to the north, the sea; to the west, vast wetlands; to the south, forests once in northern Essex. Famous for flatlands punctuated by spires or windmills, sweeping views, long beaches, and wildlife, we explore delights from the watery Broads to Sutton Hoo’s royal burial grounds. Led by expert Oliver Gilkes, archaeologist and historian who has lived here many years, this is a wonderful introduction to a beautiful, historically rich part of Britain. Day One - Norwich | Day Two - Norwich | Day Three - Little Walsingham & Blakeney Point Day Four - Norfolk Broads | Day Five - Kings Lynn & Grimes Graves | Day Six - Bury St. Edmunds & West Stow | Day Seven - Sutton Hoo & Aldeburgh | Day Eight - Norwich

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Included travel • All local transport

Accommodation • 7 nights’ in The Maids Head Hotel, Norwich

Culinary inclusions • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Explore Sutton Hoo, one of Britain’s richest archaeological finds

Dates & prices per person

Enjoy the unique flora and fauna of Europe’s most important wetlands

Date 15th - 22nd Jun

Investigate Binham Priory, a hidden gem in a quiet corner of North Norfolk

Image: Jarlshof

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The Archaeology & Wildlife of Northumbria

Twin/Dbl Share £2,990

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aeaw

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Saints, Scholars and Norsemen

John Oxley

6 DAYS FROM £2,190pp

John Oxley is an independent archaeologist, and former York City Archaeologist 1989-2019. He is a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London.

Moderate

SS £455

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

In an era of warfare, raiders, ruthless kings and religious conflict, northern England occupied an international position alongside the great continental powers. The kingdom of Northumbria dominated the north and, under royal patronage, produced unrivalled cultural achievements in art, architecture, writing and learning. Our tour explores key sites of its Golden Age and includes a trip to Inner Farne, home to remarkable seabird and Atlantic grey seal colonies. Day One - Durham | Day Two - Durham | Day Three - Escomb Church & Hexham Abbey Day Four - Durham - Jarrow - Alnwick - Bamburgh | Day Five - Inner Farne & Lindisfarne | Day Six -

Bamburgh - Berwick-Upon-Tweed

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Image: Durham Cathedral

Explore magnificent Durham Cathedral in its dramatic setting above the River Wear

Included travel • All local transport

Accommodation • 3 nights’ in the Hotel Indigo Durham and 2 nights’ in the The Victoria Hotel, Bamburgh

Culinary inclusions • 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 5 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Sail to Inner Farne, where St. Cuthbert ended his days, and see the thriving bird colonies that occupy the island

Date 13th -18th Jul

Cross the causeway and visit the famous monastery of Lindisfarne, where Viking longships once landed

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/anth

Twin/Dbl Share £2,190

SS £440

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

The Isle of Wight

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

From Vectiraptors to the Victorians 5 DAYS FROM £2,090pp

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES The Isle of Wight, separated from the Hampshire coast by the Solent, offers a concentrated journey through millennia of human history and diverse landscapes. Led by archaeologist and island native Dr Jamie Sewell, we explore its strategic maritime importance, coastal defences, and preserved prehistoric burial chambers and fossil coastlines, revealing a unique character developed apart from mainland pressures. Day One - Southampton - Ventnor | Day Two - Brading & Compton Bay | Day Three - The Needles Battery & Appuldurcombe House | Day Four - Faringford House & Osborne House Day Five - Ventnor - Southampton

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Admire the mosaics at Brading Roman villa which depict Orpheus, Bacchus and the goddess Ceres Hunt for Cretaceous fossils amongst soft cliffs and walk where dinosaurs once foraged Explore the fully restored Grade 1 Farringdon house which once belonged to Alfred, Lord Tennyson

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Image: Isle of Wight

Richard III - Hero or Villain?

Discover one of English history’s most tragic, bloody and colourful epochs 4 DAYS FROM £1,285pp

Easy

Included travel • All local transport

Accommodation • 4 nights’ in The Royal Hotel, Ventnor

Culinary inclusions • 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 13th - 17th Jul

Twin/Dbl Share £2,090

SS £540

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aiow

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Dr Michael Jones Author and presenter Dr Michael Jones is a leading military historian with special interests in Richard III.

Included travel

The dramatic discovery of the skeleton of Richard III beneath a Leicester car park in 2012 was an archaeological find that made news all around the world. It also reignited the great debate about Richard’s personal character - was he a hero or a villain? Day One - Warwick | Day Two - Stony Stratford & Fotheringhay | Day Three - Leicester Day Four - Warwick

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Visit stunning Warwick castle, home of Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, known to posterity as ‘the Kingmaker Journey to Fotheringhay Church and the remains of the castle where Richard III was born in 1452 Explore the King Richard III Visitor Centre and Bosworth Battlefield

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

• All local transport

Accommodation • 3 nights’ in The Warwick Arms Hotel, Warwick

Culinary inclusions • 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 3 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date Twin/Dbl Share 24th -27th Mar £1,285 29th Sep - 2nd Oct £1,285

SS £165 £165

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/arhv Images : Warwick Castle & Richard III portrait

Highlights of Shetland & Orkney From standing stones to chambered cairns 9 DAYS FROM £3,640pp

Moderate

The islands beyond the northernmost tip of Scotland glory in some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the world. For more than five thousand years they have been home to farmers and fishermen, who left monuments so impressive that this has been called an archaeologists’ paradise.

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Visit sites at the cutting edge of archaeological research which is shedding light on every aspect of Stone Age life Discover five World Heritage sites at Old Scatness, Mousa Broch, Skara Brae, Jarlshof and the Ring of Brodgar Enjoy the stunning landscapes of the most northerly and remote outposts of the British Isles

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Day One | Lerwick We meet at our hotel in Shetland at the Lerwick Hotel, before an introductory lecture and dinner together at the hotel.

Day Two | Mousa Broch & Jarlshof Our journey into Shetland’s archaeological wonders begins at Mousa Broch on the uninhabited island and RSPB reserve bearing its name, just off Shetland’s mainland. After disembarking at the jetty, a short walk along the shore leads us to the broch, an imposing structure standing 13 metres tall and built around 3000 BCE. Originally featuring wooden floors, accessible by stairways still intact, this site is a testament to ancient ingenuity. Postlunch, we visit the South Voe Croft Museum, providing insight into rural Shetland life, and conclude our day at Jarlshof, a site rich with 4,000 years of history.

Day Three | Unst Today’s adventure takes us to Unst, the UK’s northernmost inhabited island, where we explore its Viking heritage. With at least 60 Viking longhouses discovered here, it holds the largest concentration outside Scandinavia. We visit the Underhoull site, where excavations reveal the evolution of a longhouse with outhouses, annexes and drains, possibly featuring a mezzanine level. Our journey continues to Haroldswick to see the Skidbladner replica ship and reconstructed longhouse. The afternoon drive towards Skaw offers a view of the Muckle Flugga lighthouse at Unst’s northern tip. Before returning by ferry, we explore Muness Castle, a 16th-century tower house abandoned in the 18th century after destruction by French pirates.

Day Four | Scatness Our morning at Scatness reveals an Iron Age broch and village occupied for nearly two millennia, Image: St. Ninian’s Isle

discovered during Sumburgh Airport’s expansion. After lunch in Lerwick, we visit Clickhimin Iron Age Broch and wheelhouse, followed by a drive to the Scord of Brouster, a Neolithic farm site excavated in the 1970s. We continue to Stanydale Temple, an extraordinary structure resembling Malta’s megalithic temples, with origins between 2500-2000 BCE.

Day Five | Lerwick - St. Ninian’s Isle - Kirkwall On our final Shetland day, we explore St. Ninian’s Isle, walking across a striking sand spit to the Church, site of a Pictish silver hoard. We then visit Scalloway Museum, showcasing the WWII Shetland Bus operation. After lunch in Lerwick, we tour the Shetland Museum, home to over 3,000 artefacts, and later board the ferry to Kirkwall.

Day Six |Kirkwall & Ness of Brodgar We explore Kirkwall on foot, visiting the Orkney Museum, Bishop’s and Earl’s Palace and St Magnus’ Cathedral. After lunch, a short drive takes us to the Ness of Brodgar, where excavations have uncovered Neolithic structures and artwork. We end the day at the Ring of Brodgar, a stone circle henge monument.

Day Seven | Gurness Broch & Skara Brae Our exploration begins at Gurness Broch, featuring an 8-metre tower surrounded by stone dwellings and defences. We visit the Brough of Birsay, accessible by causeway at low tide, with Norse settlement remains and a 12th-century church. Our day concludes at Skara Brae, a well-preserved Neolithic village offering a glimpse into ancient Orkney life.

Day Eight | Churchill’s Barriers & Maeshowe We drive south across Churchill’s Barriers, vital causeways linking island communities, created by Italian POWs during WWII. Returning, we visit the

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Dr Val Turner Dr Val Turner has been Shetland’s Regional Archaeologist since 1986. An expert in Prehistoric and Viking Field Systems, she loves surprising visitors with Shetland’s wealth of archaeology and she has been guiding walks and tours in both Orkney and Shetland for over 20 years. She lives in Shetland on a small croft with her husband.

Italian Chapel before heading to Stromness for its museum’s exhibition on the Cairns project. In the afternoon, we explore Maeshowe, a magnificent chambered cairn illuminated by midwinter sun, while alternating visits with the Stones of Stennes.

Day Nine | Kirkwall We depart Kirkwall and make our respective journeys home.

Included travel • All local transport

Accommodation • 4 nights’ in The Lerwick Hotel, Shetland and 4 nights’ in the Kirkwall Hotel, Orkney

Culinary inclusions • 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 8 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 17th - 25th Sep

Twin/Dbl Share £3,640

SS £450

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/asao

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Highlights of Shetland

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Explore the UK’s most northerly islands 5 DAYS FROM £1,815pp

Dr Val Turner Dr Val Turner has been Shetland’s Regional Archaeologist since 1986. An expert in Prehistoric and Viking Field Systems, she loves surprising visitors with Shetland’s wealth of archaeology and she has been guiding walks and tours in both Orkney and Shetland for over 20 years. She lives in Shetland on a small croft with her husband.

Moderate

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES We visit the internationally important sites at Mousa, Scatness and Jarlshof and take the ferry to the most northerly island in Britain, Unst, thought to be the first footfall of the Vikings. Nowhere is farther than three miles from the sea and the beauty of the landscape - deserted sandy beaches, jagged coastline, heather-clad hills and mirror-like lochs - is guaranteed to stay with you long after you return home. Day One - Brae | Day Two - Mousa Broch & Jarlshof | Day Three - Unst | Day Four - Shetland Day Five - Shetland

Included travel • All local transport

Accommodation • 4 nights' in the Brae Hotel, Shetland

Culinary inclusions

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Climb to the top of Mousa Broch, the tallest of this unique Iron Age structure at 13 metres - and enjoy the spectacular views over the sea Discover Scatness, an extensive settlement site with prehistoric, Viking and Pictish remains, built and rebuilt over thousands of years Explore Jarlshof, constructed by Neolithic farmers c2400 BCE and occupied, though not continuously, for over 4,000 years

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Image: Jarlshof

The Archaeology of Anglesey Druids, Romans and English Conquest 5 DAYS FROM £1,890pp

Moderate

• 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 4 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person Date 18th - 22nd Jul

Twin/Dbl Share £1,815

SS £325

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/ashe

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE Ken Murphy Ken Murphy is a field archaeologist with over 45 years of experience. He has worked on numerous field and desk-based projects since 1979, including large-scale excavation of prehistoric and later sites, topographic survey of sites of all periods and landscape analysis of large parts of southwest Wales..

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE EXPERT GUIDED TOUR PRICE INCLUDES

Anglesey, or Ynys Môn as it is known in Welsh, holds a significant position in the archaeological and historical narrative of Britain. Separated from mainland Wales by the narrow Menai Strait, this tiny island off the northwest coast boats significant concentrations of Neolithic burial chambers, Bronze Age standing stones, and Iron Age hillforts. It was also at the centre of the dramatic encounter between Celtic druids and Roman legions that Tacitus so vividly recorded. Day One - Bangor | Day Two - Bryn Celli Ddu & Caer Gybi | Day Three - Dina Dnille & Caernarfon Day Four - Beaumaris Castle & Din Lligwy | Day Five - Bangor

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Enjoy specially arranged access to Barclodiad y Gawres an impressive chamber tomb of a type rarely seen outside of Ireland

Included travel • All local transport

Accommodation • 4 nights’ in The Management Centre Hotel, Bangor

Culinary inclusions • 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Visit Caernarfon Castle, one of Europe’s great medieval fortresses on the banks of the River Seiont

Date 25th - 29th May

Explore Segontium the Roman fort founded by Agricola which controlled access to Anglesey

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/aags

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Twin/Dbl Share £1,890

SS £280

Image: Menai Suspension Bridge

Archaeology & Wildlife of the Pembrokeshire Coast Exploring the wild, wild west 6 DAYS FROM £2,200pp

Moderate

£0 SINGLE SUPPLEMENT PLACES AVAILABLE

Pembrokeshire’s long history is colourful and dramatic, possessing a rich legacy of prehistoric and later remains intrinsically linked to its coastline. From Neolithic cromlech to 11th-century cathedrals, and from bracken-strewn hills to a sea-faring trip that takes us between its outlying islands, join us as we explore one of the country’s most captivating landscapes.

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Discover Carn Meini, the site of the quarry for the Stonehenge bluestones Take a sea safari through some of the richest waters for wildlife off the coast of the British Isles

Ken Murphy Ken Murphy is a field archaeologist with over 45 years of experience. He has worked on numerous field and desk-based projects since 1979, including large-scale excavation of prehistoric and later sites, topographic survey of sites of all periods and landscape analysis of large parts of southwest Wales..

Walk to the Iron Age hill fort of Foel Drigarn, which boasts wonderful views from the summit

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Day One | Haverfordwest

Day Four | Solva & St. David’s

We meet at our hotel for an introductory lecture, which is followed by dinner with our Guide Lecturer and fellow guests.

We take a walk around the harbour of Solva, a small town steeped in maritime history and, during the 18th and 19th centuries, one of the busiest trading ports in Pembrokeshire. From Solva, we walk up to the Iron Age fort that stands on the end of the Gribin. This afternoon we visit St. David’s Cathedral, constructed on one of Britain’s most ancient Christian sites.

Day Two | Pentre Ifan & Garn Fawr In the morning we visit the megalithic tomb of Pentre Ifan, the largest and one of the finest dolmens in Wales, dating from around 3500 BCE. Afterwards, it’s on to the site of Garn Fawr, a coastal hillfort and enclosure system with breathtaking views of the coast and lighthouse at Strumble Head. In the afternoon we visit Castell Henllys, an Iron Age promontory fort with extensive defences and a large settlement.

Day Three | Marloes Today, weather and tide permitting, we take a boat trip through some of the richest water for wildlife off the coast of the British Isles. In the afternoon we visit Carew Castle and Tidal Mill. Look out for Atlantic grey seals, harbour porpoise, common, bottlenose and Risso’s dolphin plus a variety of seabirds. From an Iron Age fort to an Elizabethan stronghold, the site’s history spans some 2,000 years. Here, we also find the only restored tidal mill in Wales. Image: St. David’s Cathedral

YOUR EXPERT GUIDE

Day Five | Gors Fawr & Carn Menyn Our day begins with an exploration at Gors Fawr, the sole surviving stone circle in the county. From here we walk to Croesmihangel and then it’s on to the early Iron Age hill fort of Foel Drigarn, with a trilogy of burial cairns contained within rings of ramparts and ditches. In the afternoon we explore the quarry at Carn Meini and then Waun Mawn, where excavations confirm that Stonehenge’s bluestones were erected first as a stone circle here before being later dismantled and moved on to Salisbury Plain.

Included travel • All local transport

Accommodation • 5 nights’ in the Hotel Mariners, Haverfordwest

Culinary inclusions • 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 5 dinners • Water with all meals, wine & tea or coffee with dinner

Dates & prices per person

Day Six | Haverfordwest

Date 20th - 25th May

Twin/Dbl Share £2,200

We say farewell to Pembrokeshire and make our independent onward journeys.

For full details of this tour visit andantetravels.co.uk/apem

SS £295 £0

To book a tour today visit andantetravels.co.uk or call 01722 705 231

Choose Andante Travels for an unrivalled archaeology tour experience THE ANDANTE EXPERIENCE No one does archaeological holidays quite like Andante, the first specialist UK operator to go beyond the surface of cultural travel, to dig deeper into the past and create unique explorations of some of the world’s most important sites. From the relationships we have with local custodians to the way travelling with an expert enhances the experience, and from 24-hour support from our team while you’re on tour to the careful thought that goes into each itinerary, trust Andante for your next ancient world adventure and travel with the best.

SMALL, BUT PERFECTLY FORMED With maximum numbers of 18 on every tour, you can enjoy the sociability of travelling with people who share your interest but in a group small enough to allow for ease of access and quality time with your Guide Lecturer. We can travel with more flexibility and enjoy more of those spontaneous encounters which are simply not available to travellers on a typical group tour of 40 or more. Regardless of whether you are travelling with friends, with a partner or solo, rest assured you’ll find a happy, informal ambience on our tours.

VALUE FOR MONEY The price you pay for your Andante Travels tour represents excellent value for money. With most aspects of your tour included, from return flights and entry to all sites as per the itinerary, from tips to treats and - more often than not wine with dinner. There is very little you will need to budget for on holiday except souvenirs and drinks at the bar.

01722 705 231 | andantetravels.co.uk

Andante Travels - 2026 Tours