OVERVIEW
Explore the captivating regions of Northern Italy with a journey that promises both relaxation and cultural enrichment. Start your adventure in the charming town of Stresa, where the serene beauty of Lake Maggiore and the enchanting Isole Borromee await. Next, traverse the breathtaking Centovalli Railway, connecting you to the picturesque Locarno and onwards to the iconic lakeside city of Como. Uncover the magic of Como with a scenic boat tour, visiting Bellagio, the "Pearl of the Lake," known for its exquisite villas and gardens.
Your journey continues with a visit to Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, where you’ll marvel at the Gothic splendor of the Duomo and experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Discover the romantic allure of Verona, home to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, before an afternoon exploring the turquoise shores of Lake Garda and the medieval charm of Sirmione. Finally, immerse yourself in the unique allure of Venice, navigating its canals and exploring historic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
DAY 1 : STRESA
Upon arrival make your way to your hotel in Stresa. Take your time to settle and chill out in the relaxing environment of Lake Maggiore. Enjoy time at leisure, then at night take pleasure in a welcome dinner and meet your Tour Leader and group.
Overnight at the hotel.
DAY 2 : STRESA
After breakfast board a ferry to explore the beauties of the lake and its island, the Isole Borromee. You will stop at Isola Bella and Isola Madre, famous for their baroque palaces and enchanting gardens. Let these tiny islands enchant you with their idyllic atmosphere.
DAY 3 : STRESA TO COMO VIA LOCARNO
Today depart with your group to discover the Centovalli railway. Its names (“one hundred valleys”) suggests that you will travel on one of the most spectacular European railways. This old route will take you across endless valleys and unforgettable landscapes while traveling from Domodossola to Locarno, where you will stop to enjoy this beautiful Swiss town on the lake. Depart then to Como by train, where your luggage will be waiting for you.
Follow your guide and enjoy a walking tour of Como city center, then admire the splendid lakeside villas and gardens on a boat cruise across the lake. Reach by boat the famous village of Bellagio, the so-called “Pearl of the Lake”, and enjoy your time in this idyllic and relaxing place. Return to your hotel overnight.
DAY 5 : COMO TO VERONA VIA IN MILANO
After breakfast board a regional train that will take you to the lively city of Milan, the fashion capital of Italian style. Follow your guide across the city center and see the most famous attractions like the Duomo, a masterpiece of gothic architecture, as well as the Sforzesco Castle and the Fashion “Quadrilatero”. You’ll also have the chance to Travel on a historic “tram”, a real “Milanese” experience! In the afternoon take a train to Verona, reach your hotel where you will find your luggage.
DAY 6 : VERONA & GARDA LAKE
Welcome to Verona! This morning explore the romantic city of Romeo and Juliet with the help of your tour leader. See its must-see attractions like the Arena, Piazza delle Erbe and the houses of Juliet and Romeo. In the afternoon depart for an excursion to discover lake Garda and its pearl: Sirimione, a medieval jewel-like town on the turquoise waters of the lake.
DAY 7 : VERONA TO VENICE
This morning board your high-speed train heading to Venezia! Reach your hotel on the colorful Murano Island, where your luggage will be already waiting for you. In the afternoon follow your tour leader who will let you discover the ancient and precious glass-blowing art in a traditional “furnace”. Return to your hotel.
DAY 8 : VENICE
Today explore the floating City! Taking advantage of the Vaporetto Pass, move freely across the Historical center of Venice. Your guide will take you through narrow alleys, canals, and small bridges to discover the main attraction, witnessing the mighty power of the city across the centuries. You’ll see the Rialto Bridge, Piazza S. Marco with its Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs, that leads to the prisons. Time at leisure to stroll on your own and buy local glass-made souvenirs.
DAY 9 : DEPARTURE
After breakfast, our trip to the discovery of the Italian beauties comes to an end, hoping you always keep this unique experience in your heart. Feel free to book some extra nights in Venice or a private water taxi to the airport, port, or railway station.
End of our services.
Our services include :
- 2 nights in Stresa in standard room city view
- 2 nights in Como in classic room city view
- 2 nights in Verona in standard room
- 2 nights in Venice in superior room
- Train transfer in First class
- Vaporetto Pass 48H in Venice
- WORRY-FREE LUGGAGE: Thanks to our included porterage service at railway stations and/or our “luggage bus” (that delivers luggage from hotel to hotel), we make train travel stress-free.
- Professional English-speaking guide for the entire duration of the tour
- 8 breakfasts
- 1 dinner
GROUP ACTIVITIES :
- STRESA : day tour of Isola Bella, Isola Madre, Isola dei Pescatori
- CENTOVALLI : TRAIN from Domodossola to Locarno
- LOCARNO : walking tour
- COMO : Lake of Como and Bellagio full day discovery
- VERONA : Walking tour // Sirmione & Lake Garda half day excursion.
- VENICE : Murano island walking tour with glass blowing visit // Highlights of Venice walking tour Rialto bridge, Gran Canal, St Mark Square, old tavern, local street food.
Our services do not include :
- International Flight
- City taxes must to be paid on spot
- Lunches and all the drinks at meals (where not mentioned)
- Individual transfers from/to Airport
- Porterages and personal expenses
- Tips to the guide (optional)
- Optional excursions
- Entrance fees to monuments and archaeological sites (where not mentioned)
- Anything not expressly indicated in “the rate includes”
Selected Hotels 4*:
- Stresa : Hotel Bristol (*)
- Como : Hotel Terminus (*)
- Verona : Hotel Indigo (*)
- Venice : NH Collection Murano Villa (*)
(*) The hotels listed are our primary partners in each city. Any changes to the itinerary will be communicated well in advance.
Italy, renowned for its rich history, art, culture, and culinary delights, offers travelers a captivating journey through iconic landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant cities. Here's a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your trip to Italy :
Rome :
Colosseum: Begin your Italian adventure in Rome, the Eternal City, with a visit to the iconic Colosseum, an ancient amphitheater that once hosted gladiator contests and other spectacles.
Vatican City: Explore Vatican City, home to St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums, which house priceless works of art, including Michelangelo's masterpiece, the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome and take in the beauty of this Baroque masterpiece.
Florence :
Duomo : Marvel at the breathtaking Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) in Florence, with its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi, and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Uffizi Gallery: Explore the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world's finest art museums, featuring works by Renaissance masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.
Ponte Vecchio: Stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with shops selling jewelry, art, and souvenirs.
Venice :
Grand Canal: Experience the romance of Venice by taking a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, passing by elegant palaces, churches, and historic buildings.
St. Mark's Square: Visit St. Mark's Square and admire the Byzantine splendor of St. Mark's Basilica and the intricate architecture of the Doge's Palace.
Murano and Burano: Take a boat trip to the islands of Murano and Burano to see glassblowing demonstrations and colorful houses along picturesque canals.
Amalfi Coast :
Positano and Ravello: Explore the stunning Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, charming seaside towns, and breathtaking views. Visit the picturesque villages of Positano and Ravello, known for their beauty and charm.
Amalfi : Discover the historic town of Amalfi, with its medieval architecture, stunning cathedral, and scenic beaches.
Practical Tips :
Transportation: Italy has an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including trains, buses, and ferries, making it easy to travel between cities and regions.
Language : Italian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency : Euro (EUR) is the official currency.
Weather : Italy has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller.
From the ancient ruins of Rome to the Renaissance treasures of Florence and the enchanting canals of Venice, Italy offers a wealth of experiences for travelers to savor and enjoy. Whether indulging in world-class cuisine, admiring priceless works of art, or soaking up the breathtaking scenery, Italy promises an unforgettable journey filled with history, culture, and la dolce vita.
Northern Lakes : Stresa, Como, Verona & Venice
Reference #: WTP0457
- Lake Maggiore
- Isole Borromee
- Isola Madre
- Centovalli Railway
- Walking tour of Como
- Scenic boat cruise
- Village of Bellagio
- Duomo and Sforzesco Castle
- Verona & Lake Garda
- Murano Glass
- Murano Island
- Venice Tour
- Rialto Bridge
- Piazza San Marco
Explore the captivating regions of Northern Italy with a journey that promises both relaxation and cultural enrichment. Start your adventure in the charming town of Stresa, where the serene beauty of Lake Maggiore and the enchanting Isole Borromee await. Next, traverse the breathtaking Centovalli Railway, connecting you to the picturesque Locarno and onwards to the iconic lakeside city of Como. Uncover the magic of Como with a scenic boat tour, visiting Bellagio, the "Pearl of the Lake," known for its exquisite villas and gardens.
Your journey continues with a visit to Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, where you’ll marvel at the Gothic splendor of the Duomo and experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Discover the romantic allure of Verona, home to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, before an afternoon exploring the turquoise shores of Lake Garda and the medieval charm of Sirmione. Finally, immerse yourself in the unique allure of Venice, navigating its canals and exploring historic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.