May 29, 2026
May 29, 2026
“Italy is the last country where people savor the joy of living.”
This extraordinary tour will take you to some of the most famous Italian locations. All of them gems in themselves and so different one from the other. We will visit places like Como Lake, Venice, and Sirmione. Sites visited repeatedly and yet, are always found delightful, with the capacity to inspire, amaze and awe the visitor every single time. Like the famous writer wrote many years ago:
‘Venice is a place that ‘grows upon you every day. There seems to be always something to find out in it. There are the most extraordinary alleys and by-ways to walk about in. You can lose your way (what a comfort that is, when you are idle!) twenty times a day if you like; and turn up again under the most unexpected and surprising difficulties. It abounds in the strangest contrasts; things that are picturesque, ugly, mean, magnificent, delightful, and offensive, break upon the view at every turn.’― Charles Dickens.
We will also visit the Italian Swiss area – Canton Ticino, to experience its distinct culture. Located on the southern side of the country and close to Italy, there is plenty to explore here. Rich in baroque architecture, Medieval castles, palm-lined promenades and Italian cuisine, tourists could not resist its delightful charm. .
HIGHLIGHTS:
Milan – Venice
This tour is perfect for those who wish to enjoy Italy and the Italian Swiss region at a leisurely pace. Prepare to embrace the Italian way of life, savoring the beautiful surroundings while taking frequent breaks to chat with locals, enjoy a delightful coffee, or indulge in a delicious gelato.
Expect a relaxed walking pace that invites you to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage without feeling rushed. You’ll have ample opportunities to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, explore quaint markets, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
This itinerary is especially designed for visitors who prefer a gentle experience, making it ideal for those who may not want to engage in extensive walking or physical strain. With frequent stops for sightseeing and time to enjoy leisurely meals, you can immerse yourself in the essence of Italian culture.
As you traverse picturesque streets and scenic views, you’ll also have moments to interact with locals, learning about their traditions and daily lives. Embrace the Italian “dolce vita,” where every moment is a chance to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Get ready for a memorable journey filled with beauty, flavor, and heartfelt connections!
Get comfortable and board your overnight flight to Milan! We will meet you there!
Welcome to Italy! Upon your arrival, we will greet you at the airport and take you to check in at your hotel. After you’ve settled in, we’ll set out to explore Milan, the world’s fashion capital, on foot.
We’ll begin our day at the magnificent Duomo, a stunning Gothic cathedral that you won’t want to miss. Take some time to admire its intricate façade and, if you wish, enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftop. Next, we’ll stroll through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, home to luxury boutiques and charming cafés.
After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore at your leisure. You might enjoy a walk along Brera, a visit to the historic Sforza Castle, or even a quick trip to La Scala, the world-renowned opera house, if time permits.
In the evening, you’ll have the freedom to choose a lovely restaurant for a delicious Italian dinner.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience in Milan, filled with culture, fashion, and culinary delights! If you have any questions or need further suggestions, just let me know.
LUNCH
After breakfast, we’ll depart for a visit to Lugano, often called the “Rio” or “Monte Carlo” of Switzerland. Nestled between mountains and along the shore of a vast lake, Lugano boasts a stunning setting. Located in the Italian-speaking Ticino canton, it beautifully blends Italian, Swiss, and Mediterranean influences.
We’ll stroll along the picturesque lake beach, explore the historic center, and enjoy some shopping at local boutiques.
In the evening, we’ll check in at our hotel in the Alps, where you can relax and take in the fantastic views of the lake. Enjoy the serene beauty of this enchanting region!
After breakfast, we will set off to explore beautiful Bellinzona, the capital of the Ticino Canton. This captivating city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and remarkable castles. Bellinzona is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Site castles: Castelgrande, Castello Montebello, and Castello Sasso Corbaro. Among these impressive fortresses, Castelgrande stands out as the most awe-inspiring, featuring a museum and offering breathtaking views of the city.
After enjoying lunch, we will continue to Locarno, situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore, which it shares with Italy. This charming town is known for having Switzerland’s sunniest climate and is framed by majestic mountains and cobblestone streets adorned with lush, subtropical flowers. It’s a favorite getaway for locals seeking relaxation.
While in Locarno, we will visit Piazza Grande, the perfect spot to grab an espresso and enjoy some people-watching, letting you take in the vibrant atmosphere at your own pace.
Departure to our hotel in the evening.
BREAKFAST – LUNCH
After breakfast, we will depart for Italy, where we’ll check in at our hotel and enjoy our first breathtaking views of Lake Como.
The beauty of Lake Como has captivated visitors for centuries, earning it titles such as ‘Most Requested Destination of the Aristocratic Grand Tour’ in the 19th century and ‘Most Beautiful Lake in the World’ in 2014. Over the years, many celebrities have called this stunning location home, and it has served as the backdrop for numerous films.
Upon arrival, we will meet our local tour guide who will lead us to some of the top attractions in Como, including the magnificent Cathedral and the impressive medieval city walls and towers.
In the late afternoon, we will gather for a delightful welcome dinner, enjoying the local cuisine and soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of Lake Como.
BREAKFAST – DINNER
This day will be dedicated to visiting some of the other towns around Lake Como. We will start the morning by touring the lakeshore, where we will admire some of its villas, gardens, and monuments. We will visit the gardens of Villa Balbianello, a monastery converted into a summer house in the eighteen century. You will recognize it as it has been shown in movies like Star Wars, Episode 2, and Casino Royale.
Weather permitting, we can’t miss crossing the lake with a traghetto to Bellagio, the most famous town on the lake. Otherwise, we will visit other areas of the lake that can be reached by bus, like Villa Carlotta and Menaggio. Bellaggio is called the Pearl of Lake Como. It is famous for its villas, and its small yet charming alleys, full of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. We will spend the rest of the day visiting this town at our own leisure and finish the day with a dinner in a local trattoria.
BREAKFAST
After breakfast, we will depart from Milan and head to Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy. With its 150 km (93 miles) of stunning coastline, Lake Garda is home to charming towns and picturesque villages, each offering its own unique attractions.
Our first stop will be Sirmione, a beautiful town known for its enchanting historic center, which is accessed through the impressive Scaliger Castle. This fortress, named after the noble Della Scala family who ruled over Verona and the lake in the 13th century, was built on the foundations of a Roman fortification. We’ll take the time to explore Sirmione and enjoy the scenic surroundings before having lunch there.
Afterward, we will continue our journey to Verona, where we’ll arrive at our hotel in the evening. Prepare to soak in the romance and beauty of this historic city!
BREAKFAST – LUNCH
After breakfast, we will embark on a visit to Verona, a city immortalized by Shakespeare in his plays, including Romeo and Juliet, The Two Gentlemen of Verona, and The Taming of the Shrew. Although it remains uncertain whether Shakespeare ever visited Verona or Italy, his works have attracted countless visitors to the city and its surroundings. Verona’s urban structure and architecture have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, and it boasts one of the most beautiful medieval centers in Italy.
We will enjoy a guided walking tour of historic Verona, where we’ll see iconic sites such as Juliet’s balcony, the impressive Arena (viewed from the outside), and Piazza Delle Erbe, which was once the city’s Roman forum.
After your guided visit, enjoy Verona at your own pace, allowing you to take in its charm and vibrant atmosphere.
BREAKFAST
After breakfast, we will depart for Venice, dedicating the next two days to exploring this enchanting city, often considered the most beautiful and romantic in the world. Unique in its design, Venice is built on the waters of the Adriatic Sea, showcasing stunning architecture, art-filled palaces, and a rich history dating back over a thousand years.
Upon arrival, we’ll check in at our hotel before heading out to begin our adventure. In the afternoon, we will visit Piazza San Marco, where you can admire the magnificent architecture and atmosphere. We will also explore the surrounding areas, including the impressive Duomo and the iconic Rialto Bridge. Our tour guide will provide captivating insights about this extraordinary city and its history.
After our guided visit, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore Venice at your leisure. Consider taking a gondola ride, wandering through its charming canals, or enjoying some shopping. Make the most of your time in this magical destination!
BREAKFAST
After breakfast, we will take the Vaporetto to visit Murano, an island near Venice renowned for its exquisite glass production. Although just a short distance from Venice, the atmosphere in Murano is completely different. As we step off the boat, we’ll find ourselves in a quieter, more serene environment, featuring its own Grand Canal, charming glass shops, and romantic sidewalk cafés.
Murano has a rich history, having been occupied since Roman times, with each century adding its own architectural flair to the island. While we’re there, we’ll witness a fascinating glass-blowing demonstration and explore the local attractions.
Next, we will head to Burano, a picturesque island famous for its intricate lacework and vibrant, colorful houses.
In the evening, we will gather to celebrate with a special farewell dinner in Venice, enjoying a wonderful meal together and reflecting on our memorable time in this enchanting city.
BREAKFAST – DINNER
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport in Venice for your return flight home (if needed).
Buon Viaggio! We hope you had an unforgettable experience in Italy and look forward to welcoming you back in the future! Safe travels!
