Institute for Culture Travel – the specialist Irish tour operator which specialises in opera, art, ballet and music travel packages – has unveiled its latest travel package offer: namely, three opera tours to the 102nd edition of the world famous Arena di Verona Opera Festival, in Italy; in the company of RTÉ Lyric FM‘s Marty Whelan.
He will be broadcasting his show Marty in the Morning live from the Arena this July. Set in the breathtaking ancient Roman amphitheatre of Verona, this festival is globally celebrated as one of the most remarkable cultural events of the year. Featuring iconic performances such as Verdi’s Aida and Bizet’s Carmen these tours promise an unforgettable fusion of opera, history and Italian culture.
Each tour includes carefully crafted itineraries with premium tickets, exquisite accommodation and enriching experiences ensuring an operatic adventure like no other.
Tour 1: Arena di Verona Opera Festival – Verdi’s Nabucco
Dates: 12th–16th June 2025
A once-in-a-lifetime operatic and musical thrill!
Experience the opening night of the 102nd Arena di Verona Opera Festival with Verdi’s Nabucco. Witness this masterpiece in its awe-inspiring Roman amphitheatre setting directed by Stefano Poda. Explore Verona’s historic streets and immerse yourself in its cultural and architectural heritage.
Tour Highlights:
· Return flights from Dublin to Verona
· Four nights B&B at the 4-star Hotel Giberti
· Walking tour of Verona
· Premium Poltronissima tickets to Nabucco (13th June 2025)
· Airport and hotel transfers
Price:
· €1,659 per person sharing
· Single room supplement: €1925 (standard) | €2139 (double for single use)
Tour 2: Bizet’s Carmen – With RTÉ lyric fm’s Marty Whelan!
Dates: 17th–21st July 2025
Join RTÉ lyric fm’s Marty Whelan for an enchanting opera holiday featuring Bizet’s Carmen. Enjoy exclusive experiences such as lunch with Marty, a visit to Lake Garda’s picturesque towns and a guided tour of Verona including the Biblioteca Capitolare, the oldest working library in the world.
Tour Highlights:
· Return flights from Dublin to Verona
· Four nights B&B at the 4-star Hotel San Marco, Verona
· Welcome drink and aperitif
· Walking tour of Verona and visit to the Biblioteca Capitolare
· Excursion to Lake Garda with stops in Peschiera, Sirmione and a local winery
· Exclusive lunch with Marty Whelan
· Poltronissima tickets to Carmen (18th July 2025)
· Transfers and local guide throughout
Price:
· €1,997 per person sharing
· Single supplement: €531
Optional ticket upgrades from €29 (1st sector stalls silver) to €119 (1st sector stalls platinum).
Tour 3: Arena di Verona Opera Festival – Aida & Carmen
Dates: 26th–30th August 2025
Experience two iconic productions at the Arena di Verona – Verdi’s Aida and Bizet’s Carmen. Enjoy luxury accommodations at the boutique Hotel Indigo Verona – Grand Hotel Des Arts, a stone’s throw from Verona’s historic centre. Discover the beauty of Lake Garda, Verona’s storied past and indulge in pre-opera dinners before each performance.
Tour Highlights:
· Return flights from Dublin to Verona
· Four nights B&B at the Grand Hotel Des Arts
· Welcome aperitif
· Walking tour of Verona including the Biblioteca Capitolare
· Excursion to Lake Garda with winery visit and tastings
· Pre-opera dinners on two evenings
· Tickets to Verdi’s Aida (28th August) and Bizet’s Carmen (29th August) – 1st sector stalls seating included
· Local guide and coach transfers throughout
Price:
· €2,179 per person sharing
· Single supplement: €739
Optional ticket upgrades from €29 (1st sector stalls silver) to €119 (1st sector stalls platinum).
