Jewels of the North: Discovering Italy's Enchanting Lakes

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