Day 1 From Milan to Lake Maggiore
A beloved summer getaway for Italy's elite for centuries, this picturesque destination sets the scene for the beginning of your Italian adventure. Transfers from Milan Malpensa Airport to your hotel in the delightful lakeside town of Baveno, nestled on the shores of Lake Maggiore, will be available at scheduled times. This evening, enjoy a Light Supper with a drink, where you'll have the chance to meet your fellow travellers and Travel Director as you prepare to embark on your journey together.
Hotel: Hotel Simplon Baveno
Dinner included.
Day 2 Beautiful Lake Como
Travel through Italy’s stunning Lake District to the picturesque shores of Lake Como. Take a leisurely walk along the charming Como waterfront or unwind by the lake while savouring a delicious gelato. Later, immerse yourself in la dolce vita with a peaceful stroll along the lake shore in Baveno, where the serene sounds of the water offer a perfect way to spend your afternoon. Enjoy free time discovering Baveno’s treasures, including its Romanesque bell tower and unique octagonal baptistery.
Hotel: Hotel Simplon Baveno
Breakfast included.
Experience included: Explore Como, an orientation
Optional experiences: Discover Lake Como
Day 3 Onward to Lake Garda
On day three, you’ll explore the charming streets of Bergamo, nestled at the foothills of the Alps, where architectural and artistic treasures await. Stroll past timeless Renaissance façades and into the stunning Piazza Vecchia, once the political hub of the city, built atop an ancient Roman forum. Marvel at the ornate Contarini Fountain and the 12th-century Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, a testament to the city’s gratitude to the Virgin Mary for her aid during the plague. Our journey through Italy’s captivating Lake District continues as we travel to Lake Garda for a leisurely five-night stay, where unhurried days are a way of life.
Hotel: Poiano Resort Garda
Breakfast included.
Experience included: Explore Bergamo: an orientation
Optional experiences: Spectacular Countryside and Dinner
Day 4 Exploring Verona
Romance takes centre stage as you travel to Verona, the setting of Shakespeare's tale of star-crossed lovers. Join a Local Specialist for a walking tour, visiting Juliet's Balcony and the impressive Roman arena, which remains a vibrant venue to this day. You’ll also have ample free time to explore the city at your own pace—admire the seven medieval towers of Castelvecchio, unwind beneath the shady trees of Verona’s sprawling Piazza Bra, or climb Lamberti’s Tower for breathtaking panoramic views.
Hotel: Poiano Resort Garda
Breakfast included.
Experience included: Verona City Tour
Optional experiences: Lake Garda Discovery
Day 5 Uncover the Treasures of Mantua
Start your day with a relaxing lakeside stroll and a quiet coffee before embarking on a half-day excursion to Mantua, a European 'Capital of Gastronomy' and a historic hub for opera. Surrounded by lakes, this UNESCO-listed gem offers architectural wonders, elegant palaces, and Renaissance charm, which you’ll explore with a Local Specialist. Later, return to the serene shores of Lake Garda for a special Be My Guest experience. Join the Serenelli family for a delicious meal and hear the fascinating story of their farm’s role in Napoleon’s Battle of Solferino, an event that inspired the founding of the International Red Cross.
Hotel: Poiano Resort Garda
Breakfast and dinner included.
Experiences included: Visit UNESCO-listed Mantua with a Local Specialist; A Be My Guest dinner experience with Serenelli Family
Day 6 Lake Garda
Spend a full day soaking in the breathtaking beauty of Italy's largest lake. Wander its peaceful shores, explore charming lakeside villages, and take in the delightful scent of lemons at every turn. Sample local olive oils and cheeses at bustling markets, stroll along flower-adorned lakeside paths, or discover the lake’s remarkable landmarks. Alternatively, join an Optional Experience to the awe-inspiring Dolomite mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 18 peaks towering over 10,000 feet.
Hotel: Poiano Resort Garda
Breakfast included.
Optional experience: Sudtirol and the Dolomite Mountains: Admire the Dolomite mountains with your Local Specialist
Day 7 Journey to Modena
Begin your day with a gourmet MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at a historic Acetaia, where you’ll savour the sweet and tangy notes of world-class organic and biodynamic balsamic vinegar. This experience supports UN Global Goal 12: Responsible Production and Consumption. Next, journey to Modena, a gastronomic haven famed for Lambrusco, prosciutto, and parmigiano. With a Local Specialist, explore the pastel-hued streets of this city, birthplace of Ferrari, Pavarotti, and tortellini. Discover the UNESCO-listed Old Town, including Piazza Grande, its 12th-century cathedral, and Torre Civica. Later, Dive Into Culture at the Enzo Ferrari Museum to uncover the story behind this legendary Italian brand. End the day with a relaxed dinner at your lakeside resort.
Hotel: Poiano Resort Garda
Breakfast and dinner included.
Experience included: Enzo Ferrari Museum; Modena City Tour; MTM Modena Balsamic Vinegar
Day 8 Onwards to Milan
Leaving the peaceful lakeside behind, we head to Milan, the stylish northern capital. Marvel at the stunning Gothic Duomo, the iconic La Scala Opera House, and the 19th-century Galleria with its magnificent glass and iron-domed roof. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure—browse the luxury boutiques of Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, and Via Sant'Andrea, mingling with the chic Milanese. This evening, we gather for a Farewell Dinner, celebrating the end of a remarkable journey with our fellow travellers.
Hotel: Starhotels Business Palace Milan
Breakfast and dinner included.
Experience included: Milan Tour: an orientation
Optional experiences: Treasures of Milan sightseeing with a Local Specialist
Day 9 Farewell
Our relaxed journey through the enchanting Italian Lakes comes to a close. We bid arrivederci to Italy and farewell to our newfound friends.
Breakfast included.
