Itinerary

DAY 1: MILAN, STRESA, LUGANO, COMO
This morning we will depart for Lake Maggiore, one of the largest lakes in Italy. The lower section of Lake Maggiore is framed by the soft hills of the “Novarese” region and the upper section by the high mountain peaks of Piedmont and Lombardy, some of which have perennial snow. Upon arriving in Stresa, a quaint town on the shores of Lake Maggiore, across from the Borromean Islands, we will board a boat for Pescatori Island. For Centuries this island has been known as a major fishing spot, for its simple houses, narrow lanes, stone portals, and attractive underpasses. Next, we continue on to Bella Island to visit the Borromeo Palace and its magnificent gardens. Upon out return to Stresa, you will have free time to roam the village and enjoy lunch on your own. This afternoon enjoy a panoramic tour of Lake Maggiore, near Lugano in the Italian-speaking frontier of Switzerland. Rich with shops and art galleries, this city is an ideal place to purchase luxury goods. We will depart for Como in the early evening for you overnight stay in Como and some well-earned relaxation.

DAY 2: COMO, BELLAGIO, VARENNA, BERGAMO, BRESCIA
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting off on a short visit of Como, a small town with amazing natural panoramic mountains, and wild alpine valleys. You’ll also see the industrialized Brianzola Hill, downtown Como, and the small houses in the village. The lake itself, sometimes called Lario, has long been famous for its Y-shape, its three branches intersecting at Bellagio, where you will visit via boat. Separating the lake’s two southern arms with the Alps dominating the horizon to the north, Bellagio is home to the most renowned beach in Italy. Spend some time strolling this picturesque village with its small streets, luxury hotels, villas, and gardens, stopping for lunch in one of the many cafés in town (not included). Back on the boat, we will make our way to Varenna this afternoon, where you will have a panoramic tour before moving on to Bergamo, a truly historic and artistic jewel characterized by its division of urban structure: the “Lower town” (Città bassa) is modern and dynamic, while the famous “Upper town” (Città alta) houses the city’s Medieval history. After a short walking tour of in the city center, depart to Brescia, where you will settle in to your hotel for the night.

DAY 3: BRESCIA, SIRMIONE, RIVA DEL GARDA, VERONA
Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is the next destination. After breakfast at your hotel, we will embark on a panoramic tour of the lake’s west coast, taking in the splendid natural scenery: brilliant colors, the Dolomites of Brenta, and the gentle slopes of the Morainic Hills. Enjoy the area’s rich vegetation, including lemon trees, oleanders, magnolias, and bouganville, that flourishes thanks to the Mediterranean climate. So be sure to taste some of the olive oil and wines made locally. Next, you will move on to Sirmione, where you will see the Lake Garda and its surroundings at their finest. See the sun shining off of the lake’s blue waters and tree-lined shores, the Sirmione Cape, the castle, and the Catullo’s ruins during a boat tour. Back on land, you will have free time for lunch before departing for Riva del Garda on the north side of the lake, where you will see its Venetian-style historic center. Verona will be our final stop of the day, where you will check in to your hotel for the night.

DAY 4: VERONA, MILAN
Fuel up on breakfast at your hotel before setting out to see the famous city of Verona, a work of art in itself. This fascinating crossroad of historical periods and cultures (both classical and Germanic) offer a blend of both Nordic and Mediterranean influences that are both ancient and modern. A walk through its narrow streets will allow you to get in touch with Verona’s varied and fascinating past: traces of its splendid Roman origins, its Medieval structures, its magnificent Renaissance palaces, as well as the impressive fortifications protecting it. The combination of art and history will fascinate you. Spend some time eating lunch before our departure for Milan, where your tour will come to an end.