Journey of Milan, Bernina Train & Northern Lakes - 8 Days

Welcome to Milan! Meet our driver at Milan Malpensa Airport and enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Overnight.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. In the afternoon, join your knowledgeable local guide for a three-hour walking tour through Milan's heart. You'll stroll down via Spallanzani to reach Porta Venezia, one of the city's historic gates. It's believed to have medieval or even Roman origins and lends its name to the surrounding district. Legend has it that it's also known as "Porta Renza" due to a character in Alessandro Manzoni's novel "The Betrothed" entering Milan through this gate. Your tour continues along Corso Venezia, with a shortcut through Giardini Indro Montanelli, a public garden. Across from the gardens, you'll pass by GAM, the Modern Art Museum. Following Viale Manzoni, you'll reach La Scala opera house, inaugurated in 1778 and renovated in the early 2000s. Finally, marvel at the magnificent Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano), with your guide explaining its main features. Your last stop is the majestic Castello Sforzesco, a 15th-century medieval fortress built by Duke Francesco Sforza. Nearby, we've selected a refined bakery for you to relax and savor a typical aperitivo (happy hour). After the aperitivo, you'll have some free time before returning to the hotel on your own. Overnight in Milan.

Today is dedicated to your Bernina Express adventure, aboard "the train that winds its way up to the mountain peaks." Enjoy unparalleled views from your seat on this 100-year-old World Heritage train. After breakfast at the hotel, meet our driver and head to Tirano, where you'll board the Bernina Train. The journey along one of the world's most beautiful railway routes takes two hours. As the train meanders over the Alps, passing through tunnels and picturesque towns, you'll be captivated by the Swiss Alps as you cross the Bernina pass to St. Moritz. You'll have free time to explore this charming town before meeting your driver for the return to Milan (meeting point in St. Moritz). Overnight in Milan.
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Start your day with breakfast at your hotel and get ready for a brief visit to Como, a renowned tourist spot due to its proximity to Lake Como and the Alps. You're guaranteed breathtaking views of the lake and the Alpine valleys! Lake Como, also known as Lario, has always been famous for its Y-shaped form and the charming town of Bellagio, which you'll reach by boat. Bellagio is nestled at the meeting point of the lake's two southern arms, offering captivating landscapes with the Alps dominating the northern horizon. Explore this picturesque village, wander its narrow streets, admire luxury hotels, villas, and gardens, and enjoy a leisurely lunch (not included) at one of the many restaurants or cafes. Afterward, return to the boat and continue your journey to Tremezzo/Villa Carlotta, where you'll meet your driver to start your adventure in Bergamo, a city steeped in history and art. It boasts a unique urban structure, with the modern and vibrant città bassa (lower town) and the renowned città alta (upper town), home to the city's medieval heart. Check in at your Bergamo hotel and savor a delightful dinner

Your next destination is Lake Garda, Italy's largest lake. Following breakfast at your hotel, we recommend taking a panoramic tour of the lake's western coast to soak in its stunning natural beauty. Admire the Brenta Dolomites (an officially recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the gentle slopes of the Moraine Hills of Lower Garda. Explore the lush vegetation, including lemon trees, oleanders, magnolias, and bougainvillea, and don't miss the opportunity to taste locally-made olive oil and wines. Your next stop is Sirmione, where Lake Garda and its surroundings are at their most exquisite. Witness the sun's reflection on the blue waters of the lake, the tree-lined shores, Sirmione Castle, and the ancient ruins of Catullus's villa (the poet from the 1st century BC who once owned a villa here) during a boat tour. Afterward, enjoy some free time for lunch before heading to Riva del Garda, located on the lake's north side, where you'll discover its charming Venetian-style historic center. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay in Bergamo

Start your day with breakfast, and then venture to "fair Verona," an open-air museum. A knowledgeable local guide awaits you to lead a captivating tour through its narrow streets, revealing the city's rich blend of historical periods and cultural influences, from classical to Germanic. Explore remnants of its Roman heritage, medieval structures, renaissance palaces, and impressive fortifications. The art and history fusion will astound you. Verona is the backdrop for two of Shakespeare's plays, with "Romeo and Juliet" being the most famous. Don't miss Juliet's residence, including the legendary balcony from the iconic "Oh Romeo, Rome" scene. Post-Verona, journey to Franciacorta, renowned for its grape-friendly gravel and sand over limestone soil, perfect for winemaking. Enjoy a light lunch and sample local delicacies and renowned wines. Your final destination for the day is Milan. Overnight stay.

Rest well? Rise and shine in Milan, the fashion capital! After hotel breakfast, we recommend exploring Milan's Fashion District, home to prestigious haute couture boutiques like Versace, Prada, and Armani. In the afternoon, head to Alzaia-Naviglio Grande for a boat tour in Navigli, one of Milan's charming districts, celebrated for its canals and vibrant nightlife. Cruise along the Naviglio Grande with a delightful cocktail and tasty snacks. Observe historic canal-side buildings transformed into bars, restaurants, and art galleries. As you navigate upstream, encounter San Cristoforo sul Naviglio, one of the city's oldest churches. Pass by the headquarters of Canottieri Olona, a multi-watersports club, and the famous Vicolo dei Lavandai, an open-air laundry area in use from the 18th century until the 1950s. You can opt to use an audio guide for historical insights or simply savor the voyage while conversing with your fellow travelers. Overnight in Milan.

Following breakfast, transfer to the airport. Arrivederci!