But if you need some extra inspiration here are a few incredible cities – which we visit on our tours – to tick off your travel list.
Belfast, Northern Ireland
A city once divided, delve deeper into the history and politics, understanding the different sides and how they live together in the peace process, which make Belfast what it is today. Iconic sights on the East side include the Cathedral Quarter and the Grade A Listed Parliament Building, with its striking architecture and grand steps.
Not forgetting the City Hall, Grand Opera House and CS Lewis Square, where you’ll spy carefully crafted sculptures of characters from The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe. You’ll also find lavishly decorated pubs dotted around Belfast, such as the famous Victorian Crown Liquor Saloon, with its ornate tiled frontage, original features dating back to the 1800s and carved mahogany booths.
There is plenty to see in the beautiful city of Belfast
Funchal, Madeira
Situated 600 miles southwest of Lisbon, Madeira is a subtropical haven that proves you can head to Europe and still enjoy some winter sun and warm weather while the UK shivers.
Daytime temperatures hover around 20°C – plenty warm enough for a dip in a pool, yet still mild enough that meandering through Funchal’s narrow streets is pleasant.
Stroll past its Portuguese-inspired architecture, and its picturesque harbour and delightful public squares are a great way to spend time on a group holiday.
The subtropical haven of Madeira
San Francisco, USA
From its beginnings as a 19th-century mining boomtown to the sophisticated metropolis it is today, San Francisco is simply one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world.
Nestling on a bay astride the blue Pacific Ocean, dominated by the instantly-recognisable Golden Gate Bridge, the city spreads out over forty-three steep hills on one side and a vibrant green carpet of forests on the other. Must-sees include Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, Golden Gate Park and Twin Peaks for splendid city views.
The historic tramlines of San Francisco
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is an incredible place. Originally two separate 14th-century towns, it has long been a city of contrasts and never more so than in its recent past, which makes it such a fascinating place to visit.
Look out for the Brandenburg Gate – one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks – and the Reichstag, the parliament of the reunified Germany that is steeped in history and partially reconstructed by Norman Foster. Take in Unter Den Linden, the city’s most famous boulevard, the imposing cathedral and of course what rem
Seville, Spain
Seville is a must for any globetrotter. High on any visitor’s itinerary should be a tour around the city’s cathedral, the third-largest in Europe and the alleged resting place of explorer Christopher Columbus. One of the city’s newer creations, the quirky Metropol Parasol, is a must-see too.
Said to be the world’s largest wooden structure, it boasts 30-metre-tall mushroom-like pillars and an undulating honeycombed roof.
Seville boasts the third-largest cathedral in Europe.
Cape Town, South Africa
A beautiful mix of British, Dutch and Cape Malay influences, Cape Town brings together an array of eclectic inspiration under a backdrop of stunning blue skies and the iconic Table Mountain.
Fringed with white sand beaches and the nearby seemingly never-ending valleys of the Winelands, South Africa’s ‘Mother City’, was the first settlement founded by Europeans and now it’s a bright and bustling cosmopolitan centre. There are so many things to do in Cape Town, whether you’re seeking culture, history, food or wine.
Stunning views of Cape Town and Table Mountain
Palma, Italy
Speaking of food – Italian cities are a must for groups! Parma in particular, a name synonymous the world over with wonderful Prosciutto and parmigiano reggiano (parmesan) cheese, yet a city almost untouched by tourism despite its immense charms.
Here a guided tour with a local expert can help you truly appreciate Parma’s historic buildings plus its culinary heritage. Pride of place is the impressive 12th century cathedral one of Italy’s finest Romanesque buildings – a wonder in its own right with stunning frescoes.
To book, check availability or to request a brochure:
- Call 01283 248 304 and mention your Rotary club
- Visit rotaryriviera.co.uk
- For group enquiries, email groups@rivieratravel.co.uk or call 01283 742 322
