Northern Italy Charms: Lakes, Cities & Canals

Day 1

Arrival in Turin
Stay In Principi DI Piemonte 5*

Welcome to Turin, a city of baroque architecture, royal palaces, and culinary delights. Upon arrival, meet your driver at the airport, who will take you to your luxurious hotel near Piazza San Carlo, perfectly located to start your exploration.

In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll through the elegant Piazza Castello and the Piazza San Carlo, known for its historic cafés. Admire the ornate façades and enjoy a traditional bicerin (a chocolate-coffee drink) at Caffè Torino or Caffè Mulassano.

In the evening, savour Piedmontese cuisine at a refined trattoria, enjoying specialities like vitello tonnato or tajarin pasta. Take in views of the illuminated Mole Antonelliana, the city’s architectural icon.

Overnight: Turin

Day 2

Full Day Guided Tour of Turin

After breakfast, meet your guide to start your day at the Palazzo Reale, the lavish former residence of the House of Savoy. Marvel at the grand rooms, gilded halls, and the Royal Armoury. A short walk leads to the Turin Cathedral, home to the Shroud of Turin. Head to the Egyptian Museum, which houses one of the most impressive collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts outside of Egypt.

In the afternoon, at leisure, explore Parco del Valentino and the medieval village within it. Take a guided tour of Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile to learn about Italy’s automotive history. End your day with a sunset view from the top of Mole Antonelliana and dinner in the vibrant Quadrilatero Romano.

Overnight:  Rome

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3

Train to Milan
Stay In Hotel Spadari Al Duomo 4*
Leisurely Afternoon in Milan

Take a high-speed train to Milan and check into your centrally located hotel. Begin your exploration of the city at the stunning Piazza del Duomo, home to the magnificent Milan Cathedral. Climb to the rooftop for panoramic city views. Visit the nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a beautiful 19th-century shopping arcade with luxury boutiques and historic cafés.

In the afternoon, tour the Teatro alla Scala and its museum, then explore the Quadrilatero della Moda for world-class shopping. Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in the Brera District, known for its artistic atmosphere and chic eateries.

Overnight: Milan

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4

Rental Car Pick Up & Drive to Lake Como
Stay In Palace Hotel 4*

Pick up your rental car and drive to Lake Como, a scenic journey through the Italian countryside. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel in the charming town of Como. Set in a historic building overlooking Lake Como, the Palace Hotel combines classic architecture with modern comforts. The spacious rooms are elegantly furnished, and some offer views of the lake. 

Spend the afternoon exploring Como’s Centro Storico, where you’ll find the Como Cathedral and picturesque cobblestone streets. Take the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views over the lake and the Alps. In the evening, enjoy a lakeside dinner at a cozy trattoria, savouring dishes like risotto with perch while the sun sets over the water.

Overnight:  Como

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5

Leisurely Day in Lake Como
With a Boat Charter

Enjoy a relaxing day on Lake Como with a private boat charter. Cruise past charming villages like Bellagio and Varenna, stopping to visit Villa del Balbianello, a stunning 18th-century villa with terraced gardens. Admire the lake’s crystal-clear waters, framed by the dramatic Alpine backdrop.

Return to Como for an afternoon of leisure. Wander the lakefront promenade, visit the Tempio Voltiano, or simply relax at a café. Conclude the day with a candlelit dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

Overnight: Como

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6

Drive to Verona W/ Stop In Bergamo
Stay In Palazzo Monga 4*

After breakfast, leave the hotel and drive to Verona, stopping in the medieval city of Bergamo along the way. Explore the Città Alta (Upper Town) with its cobbled streets, ancient walls, and the stunning Piazza Vecchia. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the charming piazzas.

Continue to Verona and check into your hotel. In the evening, take a romantic stroll along the Adige River and admire the illuminated Ponte Pietra bridge. Enjoy dinner in the historic centre, perhaps at a restaurant near the Piazza delle Erbe.

Overnight:  Verona

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7

Half-Day Guided Tour of Verona: History and Love

Begin your day exploring Verona, the city of love and romance. With you guide, visit Juliet's House and stand beneath the famous balcony that inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Wander through the medieval streets to the grand Verona Arena, a remarkably preserved 1st-century Roman amphitheatre still used for concerts and operas. Explore the lively Piazza delle Erbe, filled with colourful market stalls, historic buildings, and charming cafés.

In your leisurely afternoon, stroll along the scenic Adige River and cross the ancient Ponte Pietra bridge for panoramic views of the city. Discover the imposing Castelvecchio and its museum, home to medieval artifacts and Renaissance art. Conclude your visit with a refreshing gelato or aperitivo, and soak in the romantic atmosphere of this enchanting city before heading back to your hotel.

Overnight: Verona

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8

Drive to Venice W/ Stop In Padova
Stay In Al Ponte Antico 4*

Depart for Venice with a stop in the historic city of Padova, to explore the highlights on a self-guided tour. Explore the stunning Scrovegni Chapel, renowned for Giotto’s frescoes depicting the life of Christ, and visit the expansive Prato della Valle, one of Italy’s largest squares. Stroll through Padova’s University District, home to the world’s oldest anatomy theatre, and enjoy a coffee at the historic Caffè Pedrocchi. Before leaving, take time to admire the Basilica of Saint Anthony, a magnificent church housing the relics of the beloved saint.

Continue your journey to Venice, drop off your rental car, and check into your hotel. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the canals, marvelling at the city’s timeless beauty. Stop at a cozy osteria for a classic Venetian dinner and perhaps a glass of local wine. End your day with views of St. Mark’s Square illuminated at night, a perfect introduction to Venice’s enchanting atmosphere.

Overnight: Venice

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9

Venice’s Tale:
Highlights, Gelato & Gondola Ride

Discover Venice’s highlights on a full day guided tour. Begin in Piazza San Marco, often called “the world’s most beautiful drawing room.” Visit the majestic St. Mark’s Basilica, adorned with glittering mosaics, and explore the Doge’s Palace, with its opulent chambers and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. Stop at Caffè Florian, Italy’s oldest café, for a rich hot chocolate or espresso.

In the afternoon, wander the charming San Polo district, exploring hidden squares and artisan shops. Treat yourself to a gelato as you stroll along the canals. Round off your day with a gondola ride at sunset, soaking in Venice’s romantic atmosphere.

Overnight: Venice

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10

Murano Blowing Glass Workshop Experience
& Leisurely Afternoon in Murano/Burano

Meet your guide at the hotel’s lobby, to take a scenic vaporetto ride to Murano, the world-renowned island for glass-blowing. Wander its charming streets and canals before visiting a traditional glass factory for a glass-blowing workshop. Watch master artisans shape molten glass into delicate works of art and try your hand at creating your own unique piece under expert guidance. After the workshop, explore the Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum) to admire centuries of glass artistry and stroll along Fondamenta dei Vetrai, lined with boutiques offering exquisite glassware.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a canal-side trattoria, savouring fresh seafood dishes with views of the tranquil waterways. In the afternoon, continue exploring Murano or take a short vaporetto ride to Burano, known for its vibrant houses and lace-making tradition. Return to Venice in the evening and unwind with a sunset walk along the Zattere Promenade or a relaxing drink at a local café.

Overnight: Venice

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 11

Departure

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure. Take with you memories of Italy’s unique blend of history, culture, and timeless charm.

Meals included: Breakfast