Northern Lakes & the Dolomites with Bernina Express

Discover Northern Italy and the Dolomites on this 13-day adventure through iconic cities, romantic lakes, and alpine wonders
Begin in Venice with its timeless charm, then explore historic Verona, the vineyards of Franciacorta, and the scenic beauty of Lake Garda and Lake Como. Ride the famous Bernina Express through the Swiss Alps, uncover Milan’s cultural gems, and journey through the elegant towns of Bolzano, Merano, and Cortina d’Ampezzo. With guided tours, wine tastings, scenic boat rides, and unforgettable landscapes, this immersive itinerary blends Italy’s refined heritage with natural beauty at every turn
13 Days from $6499/person CAD
Guided
Honeymoon & Anniversary
Premium
Romantic
UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Primary Location

Italy, Europe

Departures

2026 Dates: May 4, June 8, July 13, August 10, September 7, 14, & October 12

Included:

  • Accommodation in standard-level hotels
  • Daily breakfast
  • Professional services of an experienced English-speaking tour escort
  • Visits and tours with English-speaking local guides as outlined in the itinerary
  • Arrival transfer from Venice airport to the hotel
  • Guided tours in Venice, Milan, and Verona
  • Spritz & Cicchetti experience in Venice
  • Light lunch and wine tasting in the Franciacorta region
  • Visits to Lake Como and Lake Garda
  • Scenic boat transfers as per the itinerary
  • Scenic Bernina Express train journey through the Swiss Alps
  • Happy Hour experience in Milan
  • Guided exploration of the Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige regions
  • Scenic drive around the lakes near Cortina d’Ampezzo
  • Visits to Lake Misurina, Lake Dobbiaco, and Lake Anterselva
  • Grappa tasting in Bassano del Grappa
  • Departure transfer from the hotel in Milan to the airport
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi on board to be in touch with family and friends
  • Headsets to follow the information provided by the tour leader and local guides
  • Stretch your legs with extra legroom on the coaches! More space is provided on board to pamper travellers with the most comfortable trip

Not Included:

  • International or domestic airfare
  • Gratuities to guides and drivers
  • Travel insurance
  • 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!

  • Please note this tour may operate as part of a combination of other tours. As a result, the Tour Leader and fellow travelers may change during the journey
  • From price is CAD per person, based on double occupancy
  • The final price will vary and is also based on the month of travel
  • Prices are subject to change

Optional Extras:

  • Pre and Post-Accommodation
  • All optional excursions per the itinerary are subject to change and are based on availability

Itinerary

DAY 1: VENICE ARRIVAL

Arrive in style with your included airport transfer and settle into your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay—your Italian adventure begins here.

Accommodation at the Hotel B&B Venezia Laguna (Tronchetto area), Hotel Delfino (Mestre area), Venice, or similar

DAY 2: VENICE HIGHLIGHTS

After breakfast, enjoy your included transfer to Piazza San Marco for a guided walking tour of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, including the Palazzo dei Dogi and the Bridge of Sighs. Following the tour, unwind like a local with a spritz or prosecco, paired with Venetian cicchetti—a delicious take on Italian tapas. The afternoon is yours to explore the canals and hidden corners of Venice at your own pace. In the evening, return to your hotel for an overnight stay. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel B&B Venezia Laguna (Tronchetto area), Hotel Delfino (Mestre area), Venice, or similar

DAY 3: VENICE TO BERGAMO VIA VERONA

After breakfast, journey to Verona, a city steeped in history and romance. Enjoy a guided tour through Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and elegant Renaissance palaces. Don’t miss a stop at Juliet’s house and balcony, made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Continue to the renowned Franciacorta wine region, where you’ll enjoy a light lunch paired with local wines in a picturesque setting. Afterward, travel to Bergamo for your overnight stay. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Cappello D’Oro, Bergamo, or similar

DAY 4: LAKE GARDA EXPLORATION

After breakfast, depart for Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and one of its most scenic lakes. Enjoy a panoramic drive along the western shore, with views of the Brenta Dolomites, Moraine Hills, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. In Sirmione, embark on a boat tour to admire the charming shoreline, Scaliger Castle, and the ancient Grottoes of Catullus. After some free time for lunch, continue to Desenzano del Garda, known for its elegant lakeside promenade and historic center with Venetian influences. Return to Bergamo for dinner and an overnight stay. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Cappello D’Oro, Bergamo, or similar

DAY 5: BERGAMO TO MILAN VIA LAKE COMO & BELLAGIO

After breakfast, enjoy a brief visit to Como, known for its stunning views of Lake Como and the surrounding Alps. From there, board a scenic boat to Bellagio, an elegant village nestled at the intersection of the lake’s southern branches. Discover its charming cobblestone streets, historic villas, luxury hotels, and lush gardens. Enjoy lunch at your leisure before taking the ferry to Cadenabbia, where your driver will be waiting to begin your journey to Milan. Overnight stay in Milan. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Concorde, Milan, or similar

DAY 6: BERNINA EXPRESS EXPERIENCE

After breakfast, meet your driver and head to St. Moritz, where you’ll have some free time to explore this elegant alpine resort town. Then, board the Bernina Express for one of the world’s most breathtaking train journeys through the Swiss Alps. Enjoy spectacular views of alpine villages, dramatic tunnels, and soaring mountain peaks as you cross the Bernina Pass toward Tirano. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Milan for the evening. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Concorde, Milan, or similar

DAY 7: MILAN HIGHLIGHTS

After breakfast, enjoy some free time to explore Milan at your own pace. In the afternoon, meet your local guide for a three-hour walking tour through the heart of the city. Begin at Porta Venezia, a historic gate with Roman and medieval roots, and stroll along Corso Venezia. Walk through the Giardini Indro Montanelli, pass by the Galleria d’Arte Moderna, and continue along Viale Manzoni. From the outside, admire the iconic Teatro alla Scala and the magnificent Milan Cathedral (Duomo). The tour concludes at the Castello Sforzesco, a grand medieval fortress, followed by a relaxing aperitivo. Enjoy free time before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay in Milan. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Concorde, Milan, or similar

DAY 8: MILAN TO BOLZANO

Depart for the charming lakeside town of Peschiera del Garda. Continue to Trento to admire the impressive Castello del Buon Consiglio and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. After a leisurely lunch, travel along Italy’s oldest wine route to Caldaro, renowned for its scenic lake and fine wines. Arrive in Bolzano for an overnight stay. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Stadt Hotel, Bolzano, or similar

DAY 9: MERANO & VIPITENO EXPLORATION

Travel to Merano, famed for its festive Christmas market and cultural charm. Explore the historic old town and enjoy free time for lunch. Continue to Vipiteno, a picturesque town with medieval architecture and Alpine character. In the afternoon, return to Bolzano to admire the Gothic Duomo and stroll along Via dei Portici, the vibrant heart of the city. The evening is at leisure. Overnight in Bolzano. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Stadt Hotel, Bolzano, or similar

DAY 10: ALPINE TREASURES & DOLOMITE WONDERS

Begin the day in Bressanone, a charming Eisack Valley town known for its 10th-century cathedral and unique Austrian-Italian character. Savor local wines and soak in the serene Alpine ambiance. Continue to Brunico, where colorful medieval streets and views from Kronplatz await. Later, visit the stunning Lake Braies—renowned for its emerald waters and dramatic Dolomite backdrop—or Lake Anterselva, a peaceful alpine gem, if Braies is inaccessible. End the day in Cortina d’Ampezzo with dinner at the hotel and an overnight stay amid the breathtaking Dolomites. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina, Cortina, or similar

DAY 11: DOLOMITE LAKES & MOUNTAIN VISTAS

Start with breakfast at the hotel before setting out to explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Cortina d’Ampezzo. Take in sweeping views of the Dolomites and spot the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Continue to Lake Misurina, the region’s largest natural lake, followed by the emerald-hued waters of Lake Dobbiaco. Journey to the picturesque village of San Vito di Cadore, nestled between the majestic Mount Antelao and Mount Pelmo. Return to Cortina for leisure time, then enjoy dinner at the hotel and an overnight stay. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina, Cortina, or similar

DAY 12: BASSANO DEL GRAPPA & THE ROAD TO MILAN

After breakfast, travel to Bassano del Grappa, a charming town nestled at the foot of the Venetian Prealps. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with medieval towers and Venetian palaces, and soak in the cultural blend shaped by centuries of Alpine tradition. Admire the iconic Ponte degli Alpini, designed by Andrea Palladio, offering postcard-worthy views over the Brenta River. Visit the Museo della Grappa to discover the origins of Italy’s renowned spirit, complete with a tasting experience. In the afternoon, continue to Milan for an overnight stay. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Concorde, Milan, or similar

DAY 13: MILAN DEPARTURE

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Arrivederci! Meals: B

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