Jewels of the North: Discovering Italy’s Enchanting Lakes

Explore the enchanting Northern Lakes with visits to Verona, Lake Garda, Borromean Islands, Lake Como, and the vibrant city of Milan
Begin your adventure in charming Venice, which is renowned for its romantic canals, and historic architecture. Visit the historic center of Verona, where cobblestone streets lead to treasures like the Arena di Verona and Juliet's House. Cruise to the largest Italian lake, Lake Garda, exploring Sirmione's beauty by boat. Dive into the Borromean Islands' allure, featuring palaces, gardens, and medieval villages. Experience the timeless elegance of Lake Como, with visits to Como and Bellagio. Conclude in Milan, immersing yourself in art, history, and the city's iconic fashion
7 Days from $2569/person CAD
Family
Guided
Island Hopping
Romantic
UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Primary Location

Italy, Europe

Departures

2024 departures: May 5, June 16, July 28, August 11, & September 8

Included:

  • 2 nights in Mestre or Padua area
  • 4 nights in Milan
  • 4-star hotel accommodation
  • Daily breakfast
  • Motorcoach bus for the duration of the tour (except first and last day, vehicle may vary based on participants)
  • Multilingual tour guide from arrival afternoon to the end of the excursion before departure
  • 2 lunches as per the itinerary
  • Audio-receiver devices throughout the trip
  • Transfer by boat to the Borromean Islands
  • Boat transfers to and from Venice
  • Transfer by boat to Bellagio
  • Boat tour of the Sirmione peninsula (Lake Garda)
  • Guided tours with local guides in Venice, Verona, Milan, and the Borromean Islands
  • Entrance tickets to St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Milan Cathedral, and the Borromean Islands

Not Included:

  • International or domestic airfare
  • Airport transfers
  • Gratuities to guides and drivers
  • Travel insurance
  • Porterage service
  • Additional meals when not mentioned on the itinerary
  • Entrance fees to monuments or museums when not mentioned on the itinerary
  • Local city tax for overnight stays
  • Visas required for entry into the country as necessary
  • Anything of a personal nature or that is not mentioned in included

Pricing Details

Click Book Online for pricing!

  • From price is CAD per person, based on double occupancy, and for travel in low season
  • The final price will vary and is also based on the month of travel
  • Prices are subject to change
  • The excursions to Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Isola Bella will proceed only if weather conditions permit safe navigation by motorboat. In the event of unfavorable weather conditions, alternative excursions will be arranged

Optional Extras:

  • Elevate your tour experience with the inclusion of seamless airport transfers and the option for pre and post-tour accommodation
  • Enhance your tour experience by choosing from the following optional extensions (rates are on request). It is recommended to pre-book all optional excursions listed in the itinerary, as they are subject to change based on availability
  • On Day 2, opt for a guided excursion to the Islands of Murano and Burano, or enjoy a gondola ride

Travel Privately

You can request to book this tour privately, travelling only with people you know.

Find out more

Itinerary

DAY 1: MESTRE (VENICE) ARRIVAL

Upon arrival in Mestre (Venice), check-in at the hotel is scheduled to begin at 4:00 pm. Following check-in, you will have the opportunity to meet with your guide for a presentation of the tour. Optional airport or train station transfers can be arranged upon request. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure.

Accommodation at the Hotel Alexander, Mestre, or Best Western Plus Hotel Galileo, Padua, or similar

DAY 2: VENICE HIGHLIGHTS

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Venice, exploring St. Mark's Square, the Bridge of Sighs, and other iconic landmarks. Wander through the charming streets, squares, and canals of "La Serenissima," taking in the city's unique beauty. Marvel at over 400 bridges, ancient palaces, and artisan workshops. The afternoon offers free time for shopping and personal exploration. Optionally, join an excursion to the Islands of Murano and Burano or experience a gondola ride. Return to the Mestre or Padua hotel for the night. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Alexander, Mestre, or Best Western Plus Hotel Galileo, Padua, or similar

DAY 3: MESTRE (VENICE) > VERONA > SIRMIONE > MILAN

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Verona's historic center, a maze of cobblestone streets bordered by medieval and Renaissance palaces. Highlights include the famous Arena di Verona, known for world-renowned operas, and Juliet's House, the inspiration for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

Following the tour, we'll head to Lake Garda, the largest Italian lake, with lunch included. In Sirmione, surrounded by ancient olive trees and stunning landscapes, we'll take a boat trip to admire the Sirmione Peninsula, the villa ruins of Catullus, and Scaligero Castle.

Later, we'll transfer to our hotel in the greater Milan area, concluding our day's adventures. Overnight stay at the hotel. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel Rubens, Milan, or similar

DAY 4: MILAN > LAKE MAGGIORE (STRESA & BORROMEAN ISLANDS) > MILAN

After breakfast, our day is dedicated to exploring the enchanting Borromean Islands. Departing from Stresa on Lake Maggiore, a short boat ride takes us to Isola Bella, where we'll discover the lavish palace and Italian gardens.

Next, we'll visit Isola dei Pescatori, a picturesque medieval fishing village, for a delightful lunch break. In the afternoon, we'll continue by boat to Isola Madre, renowned for its botanical garden and grand palace. This largest and most characteristic island of the Borromean group is famous for its tranquil atmosphere, where peacocks, parrots, and pheasants roam freely in the gardens.

We'll then return to the hotel in Milan for an overnight stay. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel Rubens, Milan, or similar

DAY 5: MILAN > COMO > BELLAGIO > MILAN

After hotel breakfast, our focus today is Lake Como. In Como, renowned for its silk production, we'll delve into its rich history, exploring elegant squares where architecture and culture intersect. A stroll along the lake's picturesque shores will allow us to appreciate the serene scenery.

Our next destination is Bellagio, the "pearl of the lake", accessible by boat. Cobblestone streets will guide us through the historic heart of the town, where majestic villas and manicured gardens captivate. The highlight is the breathtaking panoramic views from the surrounding hills. We'll return to Milan in the afternoon for an overnight stay at the hotel. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Rubens, Milan, or similar

DAY 6: MILAN HIGHLIGHTS

After hotel breakfast, dedicate the day to exploring Milan, the capital of Lombardy, known for its rich art, history, and tradition. Guided by a local expert, we'll stroll through the historic center, taking in the Sforzesco Castle, La Scala Theater, and the luxurious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Inside the iconic Duomo, located in the homonymous square, we'll appreciate its grandeur.

Shifting focus to Milan's fashion scene, we'll delve into how the city became the world's fashion capital, showcasing innovative ideas and internationally renowned brands. The day concludes with our return to the hotel for an overnight stay. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Rubens, Milan, or similar

DAY 7: MILAN DEPARTURE

Indulge in a morning breakfast at the hotel before checking out. For added convenience, consider the optional private transfer to the airport or train station. Arrivederci! Meals: B

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