7-Day Northern Lakes and Cities Tour

Day 1: Arrival at the Majestic Lake Como

Your First Night in Como

Welcome to Italy! Today is your independent arrival day at the breathtaking Lake Como. As you make your way to this iconic lake, known for its dramatic scenery and romantic allure, the anticipation for the week’s adventure builds. Please note that transportation to Como is not included in your tour package for this day.

Optional Private Airport Transfer

For a seamless and luxurious experience, we offer an optional private airport transfer service. Our professional car and driver will greet you at the airport and transport you to your carefully inspected accommodations in Como. This way, you can start your Italian odyssey in utter comfort and style.

Overnight in Como

Savor your first evening in Como by exploring its charming streets or simply enjoying a lakeside dinner. The city offers a myriad of culinary and leisure options that set the stage for the incredible journey ahead.

Your first night’s accommodation has been meticulously selected to meet our high standards, ensuring that your stay is as comfortable and pleasurable as possible.

Day 2: Como, Bellagio, and the Mesmerizing Lake

Private Walking Tour of Como

Begin your day in the embrace of Como’s captivating atmosphere. Your expert guide will lead you on a private walking tour, unraveling the city’s unique blend of rich artistic heritage and bustling modern life. Whether it’s the intricate cathedrals or the contemporary flair of the city center, Como offers a vivid tapestry of experiences for the discerning traveler.

Independently Explore Lake Como

After your guided tour, enjoy the freedom to explore the stunning Lake Como at your own leisure. Your guide will equip you with all the information you need for an independent lake exploration. Here are some ideas for your free time.

Scenic Vaporetto (Ferry) Ride

Step aboard a Vaporetto, the traditional Italian ferry, for a scenic voyage that captures the essence of Lake Como. With the Alps serving as a majestic backdrop, your eyes will be treated to an unfolding panorama of lakeside villas, luxuriant gardens, and quaint towns.

The Jewel of Bellagio

A must-see on this day’s itinerary is the iconic town of Bellagio. Nestled within ancient city walls, Bellagio is an epitome of Italian charm and elegance. Wander through its narrow lakeside streets, which lead you to opulent hotels and high-end shops. Immerse yourself in the ambiance, where every turn feels like a step back in time.

San Giacomo Cathedral

Don’t miss the Romanesque cathedral dedicated to San Giacomo, a stunning artifact that has remained virtually unchanged since the 12th Century. The cathedral serves as a timeless symbol of Bellagio’s rich history and architectural heritage.

Overnight in Como

As the sun sets on your fulfilling day, find your way back to your refined accommodation in Como. Relax, perhaps with a glass of local wine, as you anticipate the adventures that await in the days to come.

Day 3: An Aristocratic Retreat at Lake Maggiore

Journey to Lake Maggiore with Driver Guide

The day begins with an enthralling full-day tour to Lake Maggiore, escorted by your knowledgeable driver guide. This awe-inspiring lake straddles the regions of Lombardy, Piedmont, and even touches Switzerland, offering vistas that seem almost otherworldly.

Elegant Stresa

Your first stop is the aristocratic town of Stresa. Enveloped in opulence and natural beauty, Stresa is the epitome of luxury meets landscape. Its Mediterranean-like microclimate, courtesy of the protective Alpine shield, adds a touch of the exotic to the European grandeur.

Independent Panoramic Boat Cruise

Following some free time in Stresa to discover its enchanting corners, you’ll set out on a two-hour independent panoramic boat cruise. Navigate through the mesmerizing Borromean Islands, which include Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori.

Isola Bella: A Palace Afloat

Isola Bella is more than an island; it’s a floating palace adorned with Baroque art, intricate caves, and puppet collections. Its botanical gardens bloom in a fascinating array of colors and fragrances, adding another layer of allure to your visit.

Isola dei Pescatori: An Inhabited Marvel

The day wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Isola dei Pescatori, the only Borromean Island inhabited year-round. Wander its charming streets, discover hidden corners, and maybe even share a smile with the locals. 

Overnight in Como

As evening falls, return to the haven of your accommodations in Como. Reflect on the day’s splendid discoveries as you rest up for another day of exploration.

Day 4: From the Romance of Verona to the Elixirs of Amarone

Journey to Milan and High-Speed Train to Verona

Your morning starts with a rendezvous with your private driver, who will escort you to Milan. From there, board a high-speed train that will whisk you away to the romantic city of Verona, setting the stage for an extraordinary day. Upon arrival, you’ll make your own way to your hotel in this city famed for its Shakespearean history and ancient architecture.

Afternoon Amarone Wine Tour

By early afternoon, you’ll meet your guide who will lead you on an enriching wine tour, set in the breathtaking landscape of the Valpolicella valleys. This isn’t just a wine tour; it’s a foray into a world where each sip tells a story, where each vineyard is a chapter in a book of unforgettable experiences.

Discover Valpolicella’s Wineries

Your tour will feature stops at two specially selected wineries in the Valpolicella region. Here, among the lush gardens and awe-inspiring terrains, you’ll sample traditional wines like the velvety Amarone and the rich Ripasso. Each wine is a nuanced expression of the land from which it comes—a treasure in a glass.

Sommelier-Led Wine Tasting

Local winemakers, guided by a professional sommelier, will share the secrets behind the crafting of Amarone. This is your chance to not only taste but to understand the complexities that go into making one of Italy’s most celebrated wines.

Overnight in Verona

As the sun dips below the horizon, head back to your hotel in Verona. The city’s nighttime ambiance is the perfect backdrop for reflecting on a day of sensory delights. A cozy night in Verona awaits, setting the stage for the next leg of your Italian odyssey.

Day 5: Sirmione and the Mediterranean Splendors of Lake Garda

Journey to Lake Garda and Sirmione

On this exceptional day, meet your guide and set out for Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and arguably most enchanting lake. Your destination is the idyllic medieval village of Sirmione, a tapestry of crystal-clear waters, fairytale-like castles, and palaces bedecked in blooming flowers.

Discover Sirmione’s Charms

Take your time to wander through the labyrinthine streets of Sirmione, where each cobblestone and archway tells a story. From its imposing castle to its sun-drenched piazzas, Sirmione is a celebration of Italian culture, history, and natural beauty.

Panoramic Boat Tour of Lake Garda

Board a panoramic boat to uncover the lake’s myriad wonders. Lake Garda offers more than just breathtaking views; it offers a slice of Italy that is simultaneously serene and vibrant. As you glide along its azure waters, you’ll notice a unique blend of palm trees, olive groves, and vineyards that border its shores, as well as beaches that beckon for your attention.

Mediterranean Oasis Amidst Varied Landscapes

Lake Garda stands as a Mediterranean sanctuary in the heart of Italy, flanked by the towering Alps and the expansive Po River Plain. It’s an oasis that gifts its visitors not only with stunning visuals but also with gourmet delights, including some of the country’s most exquisite wines and olive oils.

Overnight in Verona

As the day’s escapades come to a close, make your way back to your accommodation in Verona. Here, the stars twinkle a little brighter, perhaps echoing the natural and cultural splendors you’ve encountered throughout the day.

Day 6: Verona – A Timeless Tale of History and Culture

Guided Tour of Verona’s Old Town

On your sixth day, a local expert guide will accompany you through the evocative streets of Verona’s old town. Each corner you turn reveals another layer of this city’s rich history, blending classical antiquity with the warm hues of Italian romance.

The Majestic Arena

Your journey begins with a visit to the iconic Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Still active as an opera house, the Arena resonates not only with its ancient glories but also with the timeless strains of music and performance that fill its stone corridors today.

Stroll Through Verona’s Squares and Palaces

As you meander through the city, you’ll come across stunning squares and palaces that have stood the test of time. From the intricate stonework to the grand façades, these architectural marvels provide a visual narrative to Verona’s glorious past.

Ancient Marble Arcades and the Preserved ‘Ala’

One of the unique features of Verona’s Arena is the remaining ‘ala’—the last piece of the amphitheater’s third outer ring. Walk under ancient marble arcades and feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, all while absorbing fascinating facts and anecdotes from your guide.

Immerse Yourself in Verona’s Rich History

As you wander, immerse yourself in the lore and legends that make Verona a place of everlasting intrigue. Whether it’s the romantic whispers from Juliet’s balcony or the clashing swords of gladiators in the Arena, each tale adds a layer to your understanding of this captivating city.

Overnight in Verona

As daylight gives way to the soft glow of Verona’s streetlights, you’ll return to your hotel for a peaceful night’s rest, accompanied by the memories of a day rich in history and filled with beauty.

Day 7: Farewell to Italy – Your Italian Journey Concludes in Verona

Morning Breakfast

Begin your final day in Italy with a delightful breakfast, savoring those last moments of your trip as you reminisce about the unforgettable experiences you’ve had.

End of Our Services

As breakfast concludes, so do our services for this remarkable 7-day journey through Northern Italy’s lakes and cities. From Lake Como’s tranquil beauty to the romantic allure of Verona, we hope this trip has been an embodiment of all that Italy has to offer—enriching, inspiring, and truly unforgettable.

Optional Transfers & Extended Stay

Please note that transfers to airports or train stations are not included in the tour package. However, for those interested in a seamless transition, we offer optional private car transfers to your next destination, whether it’s an airport or train station. If you’re not ready to say ‘Arrivederci’ to Italy just yet, you can also extend your journey to explore even more of this beautiful country. 

The Choice is Yours

Whether you choose to return home or extend your Italian adventure, we’re here to assist in making your travel as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

For any further questions about the tour, post-trip services, or extended stay options, please visit our FAQ page. Thank you for choosing to experience Italy through our curated services, and we look forward to hopefully serving you again in the future.

2024 Departure Days

Departure Days and Blackout Dates for Your 7-Day Northern Lakes and Cities Tour

To best accommodate our travelers, we offer flexible departure days for this enchanting tour of Italy’s Northern lakes and vibrant cities. However, please be aware of our available departure days and blackout dates.

Available Departure Days

– Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays: This tour is available for departure on these days of the week, giving you the flexibility to choose a starting date that aligns with your schedule. 

Tour Season

– April to October: To capture the Northern lakes and cities at their most inviting, our tours operate during these months when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Blackout Dates

Kindly note that the following dates are unavailable for departures due to local holidays, events, or other considerations:

– April: 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 21, 27

– May: 29

– August: 11

Before booking, we encourage you to read our FAQ page to learn more about the trip planning process, timelines, payment information, travel insurance, and cancellation policies. Thank you for considering Italy4Real for your grand Italian adventure! We look forward to making your trip a once-in-a-lifetime experience, filled with unforgettable moments.

2024 Prices

**Rates Per Person in Euro

These enhanced rates allow you to enjoy a more comprehensive experience of Italy’s
enchanting locales, all while maintaining the quality of service that you expect.