Northern Italian Lakes & Countryside

Begin your Italian adventure in the elegant city of Turin, where you’ll be welcomed with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant. This evening offers the perfect opportunity to meet your Travel Director and fellow explorers, setting the tone for a journey filled with camaraderie and authentic regional cuisine. Settle into your comfortable hotel (such as NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina or similar) and prepare for the days of discovery ahead.

Awake in Turin and embark on a guided exploration with a local expert, revealing the city’s grand piazzas, stately boulevards, and ornate baroque architecture. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure—perhaps sample the city’s signature bicerin in a historic café or opt for an excursion to the magnificent La Venaria Reale, a UNESCO-listed palace complex. Return to your hotel (such as NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina or similar) for a restful evening.

Set out from Turin for a tranquil morning at the picturesque Lago d'Orta, where you can savor coffee by the water with views of the enchanting island and distant Alps. Journey along the scenic shores of Lake Maggiore, passing pastel-hued villas and lush hills, before reaching the charming town of Stresa. Here, enjoy free time or choose to visit the aristocratic Borromean Islands. Your day concludes in Erba, nestled at the edge of the Lombardy countryside, where you’ll unwind in a welcoming hotel (such as Hotel Leonardo da Vinci Erba or similar).

Today, immerse yourself in the lakeside charm of Como. Whether you choose to ascend by funicular to Brunate for sweeping vistas, browse the city’s stylish boutiques, or simply relax by the shimmering lake with a gelato, the day is yours to savor. For a unique perspective, consider a cruise on Lake Como, discovering its storied villas and rich history. Return to your comfortable accommodation in Erba (such as Hotel Leonardo da Vinci Erba or similar) for a peaceful night.

Venture into the medieval heart of Bergamo’s upper town, where winding streets lead to the lively Piazza Vecchia. Admire the ornate Contarini Fountain and the 12th-century Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, then stroll past Renaissance facades before heading into the scenic Lake Garda region. This evening, experience authentic Lombardy hospitality with a farm-to-table dinner hosted by the Serenelli family. Settle in for a three-night stay in a countryside hotel (such as Hotel Villa Rosa Desenzano or similar), surrounded by rolling hills and tranquil landscapes.

Delve into the culinary and cultural riches of Modena, renowned for its sparkling Lambrusco, savory prosciutto, and world-famous parmigiano. Wander through the pastel-hued streets of the Old Town, marvel at the UNESCO-listed Piazza Grande, the 12th-century cathedral, and the iconic Torre Civica. Discover the legacy of Italian automotive excellence at the Enzo Ferrari Museum, then savor a gourmet tasting at a traditional Acetaia, sampling some of the world’s finest organic balsamic vinegar. Return to your Lake Garda area hotel (such as Hotel Villa Rosa Desenzano or similar) for a leisurely evening.

Experience the romance of Verona, immortalized by Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers. Join a local guide for a walking tour that brings you to Juliet’s Balcony and the ancient Roman arena, still hosting performances today. Enjoy ample time to explore at your own pace—admire the medieval towers of Castelvecchio, relax in the shade of Piazza Bra, or climb Lamberti’s Tower for panoramic city views. Return to your Lake Garda area hotel (such as Hotel Villa Rosa Desenzano or similar) for another restful night.

Bid farewell to the peaceful lakes and journey to Milan, Italy’s vibrant northern capital. Marvel at the soaring spires of the Gothic Duomo, the world-renowned La Scala Opera House, and the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Spend your afternoon mingling with locals in the city’s chic shopping districts, including Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, and Via Sant’Andrea. Celebrate your final evening with a memorable dinner alongside your travel companions at a stylish Milanese restaurant before retiring to your hotel (such as Starhotels Rosa Grand or similar).

Your unforgettable journey through northern Italy’s lakes and countryside concludes in Milan. After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your newfound friends and the enchanting landscapes that have made this multi-day tour truly special.