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Italian Northern Lakes, Milan & Bernina Express

Tour Overview

Picture this: you’re lucky enough to be a passenger on the iconic red Bernina train, taking in the stunning views of Northern Italy’s widely popular Lake Region. Passing by breathtaking mountains and glittering lakes, you’ll only wonder why you didn’t book your trip sooner. Departing from Milan, this 5-day experience boasts scenic views of both the Lombardy and Veneto regions — all at an affordable price. Included is a mix of guided tours and downtime, so in between learning about this beautiful region of Italy, you’ll have the time to explore the picturesque cities and villages of Verona, Como, Bellagio, and Bergamo however you’d like. Bellissimo!

Itinerary

Welcome to Milan! When you arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport, a driver will take you to your accommodation. In the afternoon, you will meet your local professional guide at the hotel and embark on a three-hour walking tour through the beautiful city of Milan. You will start at Porta Venezia (meaning Venice Gate), a historical gate to Milan that may have medieval or even Roman origins. There is a legend that these gates are also known as “Porta Renza,” given its name by Renzo Tramaglino, the co-protagonist of the novel – The Betrothed by Alessandro Manzoni – that entered Milan through these gates. You will also go through Corso Venezia and Giardini Indro Montanelli, a stunning garden that is open to the public. You will also see the Galleria d’Arte Moderna (modern art museum) and the iconic La Scala opera house, which was renovated from 2002-2004. You will then visit the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) and end the tour at the Castello Sforzesco, a medieval fortress built by Francesco Sforza, the Duke of Milan, in the 15th Century. After the tour, you will have some free time to relax and enjoy a typical Italian aperitivo (happy hour) at a nearby bakery before returning to the hotel on your own for the night.

On the second day of your trip, you will take the Bernina Express train, a historic World Heritage site that is over 100 years old, on a journey through the Swiss Alps. After breakfast at the hotel, you will meet a driver and travel to Tirano, where you will board the train for a two-hour ride through stunning alpine views. Along the way, you will pass through mountain tunnels and small towns and villages, eventually arriving in St. Moritz. After some free time to explore, you will meet the driver at St. Moritzs, the meeting point, and return to Milan for the night.

Start your day with a hotel breakfast and get ready for a quick visit to Como, a tourist hotspot known for its closeness to Lake Como and the Alps. Prepare for stunning views of the lake and Alps! The lake, often referred to as Lario, is famous for its distinctive Y shape and the charming town of Bellagio, which you’ll reach by boat.

Bellagio sits at the crossroads of the lake’s two southern arms, surrounded by the Alps to the north. It boasts some of Italy’s most captivating landscapes. Explore this picturesque town with its narrow streets, luxurious hotels, villas, and gardens. For lunch, take your time at one of the many restaurants or cafes.

As you return to the boat, make your way to Tremezzo/Villa Carlotta. Here, you’ll meet your driver and begin your journey to Bergamo, a true historical and artistic gem. Bergamo’s urban layout is unique: the lower city (città bassa) is modern and lively, while the upper city (città alta) preserves the medieval core of the town. Check in at your Bergamo hotel, enjoy dinner, and overnight stay.

On the fourth day of your trip, you will visit Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, and take a panoramic tour of the west coast following breakfast in the hotel. You will see the natural landscapes of Brenta Dolomites, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the gentle slopes of the Moraine Hills of Lower Garda, as well as the area’s rich vegetation, including lemon trees, oleanders, magnolias, bougainvillea and be sure to taste some of the locally-made olive oil and wines. You will also take a boat tour of Sirmione and see the castle, the ruins of Catullus’s villa (that was once owned by a 1st century BC poet), and the beautiful blue waters of the lake. After some free time to have lunch, you will move on to Riva del Garda, a charming town on the north side of the lake with a Venetian-style historical center. Dinner and overnight stay in Bergamo.

On the fifth day, after a delicious breakfast, you will have the opportunity to visit Verona, a city with a rich history and cultural influences that is home to the famous balcony of Romeo and Juliet. You will take a guided tour through the narrow streets and see the city’s Roman, medieval, and Renaissance structures, as well as the impressive fortifications meant for protection. The combination of art and history will amaze you. After the tour, you will drive to Franciacorta, a region known for its winemaking and grape cultivation, and enjoy a light lunch and wine tasting. Finally, you will return to Milan, where your tour services will end.

Accommodation

We use a variety of hotels in each destination, so you may stay in a hotel different to that listed here. Hotels are selected closer to departure date; you will receive a confirmed list prior to your departure date.

4 Star Hotel: Starhotels Ritz Or Similar

4 Star Hotel: Starhotels Cristallo Or Similar

What’s Included

4 Nights hotel accommodation in Milan and Bergamo 4 Star Hotels

  • Guided Walking Tour in Milan, visiting historical landmarks such as Porta Venezia, the Galleria d’Arte Moderna, La Scala opera house, and the Milan Cathedral
  • Guaranteed seating in the open scenic carriage on the Bernina Express Train
  • Visit Como, Bellagio and Bergamo, exploring the stunning views of Lake Como and the historic architecture of these towns
  • Discover the Lake Garda, seeing the natural beauty of the Brenta Dolomites and the Moraine Hills of Lower Garda, as well as the ruins of Catullus’s villa and the castle in Sirmione
  • Visit Riva del Garda, a town with a Venetian-style historical center
  • Visit Verona, a city known for its rich history and cultural influences, and the Franciacorta region, where you can taste local food and wine
  • 4 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners
  • Happy Hour in Milan
  • Light lunch with wine tasting in Franciacorta’s area
  • Transfer in from Milan airport to the hotel
  • Transportation by deluxe motorcoach

International flights are not included

Insurance not included

  • Pre & Post Tour Accommodation
  • Optional Experiences
  • City Tax to be paid locally
  • Tipping for guide, driver and hotel staff
  • Drinks on meals
  • Personal Expenses
  • Item, product or service not specifically listed under Included
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