Northern Italy/Southern Switzerland
Come on this exclusive one week journey to where Swiss quality mingles with Italian lifestyle, design and food, at the Northern Italian Lakes. Starting from Milan we will spend the first two days near and on our first two lakes, encased by the Pre-Alps for a stunning panorama.
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Land in Milan and travel to the lake district
Arrive in Milan, were you are met by a local guide. It’s but an hour drive to Lago d’Orta, known as the most romantic lake of Italy. Take a private boat to San Giulio island and explore a church with 12th century frescoes. Final stop of the day is to the enchanting town of Cannobio.
Day 2: Explore Lugano and the other amazing towns that border the cool clear Northern Italian lakes
Stroll through the colorful markets that Cannobio has to offer. Embark on a steamer to the island of Isola Bella. Visit the stunning gardens and 16th century palace. Spend the rest of the afternoon visiting Stresa, a quaint Italian town settled in Lake Maggiore. In the evening, learn to prepare three traditional Italian pastas.
Day 3: Cross the border into Switzerland to begin exploring Ticino
Take a short 20 minute drive to cross the border into Switzerland. After checking into the hotel which has the most magnificent views of Ascona, continue the journey and discover the beautiful Monte Verita (Hill of Truth). Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the dolce vita. Relax at the hotel as you please, while a magical evening is planned just for you.
Day 4: Ticino and the Alps
Visit the Onsernone Valley and take a cable car up to Alpe Salei for a picturesque hike and enjoy a light lunch by the lake. Afterwards, explore the a famous museum before arriving at your hotel and enjoying a lovely dinner.
Day 5: Return to Italy and Lake Como
Take a quick drive Bellinzona, Ticino’s capital- visit the remains of three castles, which are now considered world heritage sites. After working up an appetite, go to one of our favorite local spots, where you will enjoy homemade salami, mortadella and ham, vegetables from the garden, saffron and mushroom risotto, mixed meats, zabaglione and more. Oh and wash it down with a fine glass of Merlot from a vineyard next door. Buona notte!
Day 6: After the morning in Lugano travel to Milan to see the city
Early afternoon will be spend strolling through the piazza of Lugano. An unforgettable lunch will be provided along the lake. Afterwards pack up and travel less than an hour to Lake Como, where you will check into a breathtaking hotel overlooking the lake.
The evening will be spent walking the beautiful streets of Lake Como and enjoying a savory meal at a local favorite restaurant.
Day 7: Arrivederci
Depart Lake Como and head back to Milan. Depending on your flight home, spend the day visiting some of Milan’s attractions.
The cost for this wonderful seven day holiday depends on the number of travelers:
2 to 4 travelers: $4200/person, double occupancy
5 to 6 travelers: $3500/person, double occupancy
7 to 8 travelers: $2900/person, double occupancy
Solo traveler fee: $600
Our standard tour includes the following:
All airport transfers and in-country transportation in private, non-smoking, deluxe air-conditioned vans
English speaking tour guides
Concierge services
Entrance fees to museums, boat rides, and cooking classes
Six nights in luxury hotels and quaint inns.
All meals- except two light lunches and dinners
What’s not included:
International airfaire
All alcoholic drinks and beverages
Gratuities and tips
Custom Trips:
If you aren’t available to join us on one of our planned trips, no worries at all. Please let us help you arrange a memorable travel experience at a time that is convenient for you.
All pictures courtesy of Claudio Hermani of CHEVIAGGI