Itinerary

Journey to Orvieto

There's something to be said about the energy and passion of Rome, but today we leave it behind for the heart and beauty of greater Italy. We head north, through Italy's Lazio and Umbria regions, an urban metropolis blending into rural charm. Don't be lulled into dozing, otherwise you might miss the verdant countryside, from olive groves to vineyards.

Free time in Orvieto

As we approach our first stop of the day, you might just start to believe in magic. Perched dramatically atop a volcanic tuff cliff is the city of Orvieto. It's a city known for its unfathomably beautiful duomo, the limestone rock its perched on, and the cave system that makes up its roots. It's the perfect place to explore and feel like a true adventurer. As you wander its shop-and-restaurant-filled streets, its medieval architecture stems out from the masterful Gothic cathedral. And, as a region known for its wine, now might be the perfect time to sit and take in the sights with a refreshing local grape.

Parco Naturale Le Balze, lunch in Piantravigne, and journey to Bologna

Your journey leads you through the Parco Naturale Le Balze, a landscape studded with balze rock peaks, sulphite streams, and gorgeous vistas that inspired Leonardo da Vinci. Your lunch stop is in the tiny hamlet of Piantravigne, the perfect spot to sample some truly authentic Italian cuisine. From here, you travel to Bologna, the city famous for the oldest university in Europe and culinary delights.

Free evening in Bologna

You've got a free evening in this atmospheric city so you can explore to your heart's content. You can begin with a leisurely walk through the Piazza Maggiore, where the historic buildings glow in the soft light, or explore the medieval streets lined with charming cafés and boutique shops. For dinner, indulge in Bologna's famous tagliatelle al ragù or other local specialties at a cosy trattoria.

Optional half-day trip to Ravenna

Today, you can join a half-day trip to Ravenna in the morning or spend the whole day in Bologna. Ravenna is a maze of mosaic masterpieces, a unique blend of early Christian and Byzantine architecture with eight sites on the UNESCO list. This unforgettable North Italian destination is also the town where Dante Alighieri is buried.

Free time in Ravenna

Explore this captivating treasure trove of art and history, where the intricate mosaic masterpieces will leave you in awe. After immersing yourself in the beauty of Ravenna's artistic heritage, unwind by strolling through the city's charming streets, lined with lively squares, quaint cafés, and historic buildings. It's the perfect setting to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this timeless city.

Free afternoon in Bologna

We leave Ravenna in the early afternoon and return from your half-day trip to have the rest of the day to explore Bologna your way. During the Renaissance, this fascinating city was blooming with art and was a centre for intellectual innovation. Its famous university is the oldest in the western world and saw great minds like Petrarch, Dante Alighieri, and Copernicus. There's plenty to do here. You can stroll through the beautiful, kilometres-long UNESCO porticos, unravel the mysteries of the university, or climb the iconic Asinelli Tower, for stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region.

Free evening in Bologna

It's your last evening in stunning Bologna, so make sure to savour every moment. As the evening unfolds, relax with a gelato in hand, soaking in the lively atmosphere and reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your time in this charming city.

Journey to Porto Tolle

It's time to slap on some sunscreen, charge up your camera, and head deep into nature. Your adventure begins in Porto Tolle, a tranquil town located at the heart of the Po Delta, one of the most biodiverse regions in Italy.

Free time at Porto Tolle, optional boat trip

Here, you can join an optional boat trip that takes you through the serene wetlands of the Po River. As you glide along the winding waterways, you'll be surrounded by lush vegetation, salt marshes, and hidden channels. The Po Delta is home to a rich variety of wildlife, and it's the perfect place to spot rare migratory birds, including flamingos and herons. Alternatively, you can choose to follow one of the walking trails to immerse yourself in its untouched beauty.

Lunch at Porto Tolle and Este

After your lunch and free time in Porto Tolle, we continue our journey to Este, a charming town with a rich history that dates back over 3,000 years. During your free time, you can take a leisurely walk along the well-preserved city walls, offering lovely views of the surrounding countryside and the town's quaint streets. Another highlight is the Medieval Castle, set within a peaceful moat, where you can explore the ancient fortress and imagine life during the Middle Ages.

Free evening in Venice

You then venture to the floating city of Venice, one of the most striking destinations in Italy and your home for the next two nights. There's something unique about Venice at night. The island clears, the hubbub settles, and Venice's ghost stories whisper along the canal's streets.

Guided Tour of Venice

With its wealth, trade, and power; Venice has always been bold. Trust us, you'll need at least a full day in Venice. We wish we could give you more, and, as there will be so much for you to choose from, we recommend making a list before you go. You enjoy an included two-hour guided walking tour of the city and then it's up to you what you explore next. From people-watching in Piazza San Marco to frequenting the famous galleries, you have the whole day and night in Venice.

Free time in Venice

177 canals, 350 gondoliers, and the most idiosyncratic cityscapes in the world: Venice, ‘the Floating City', is your home for the day. It's been built on over 118 islands and hosts one of the most famous festivals in the world. Why not try a gondola ride yourself, gliding along the serene canals as you take in the stunning views of the Grand Canal and picturesque bridges?

Free time in Venice

The labyrinth of Venice is part of its charm. Never knowing where you might end up or how many bridges are between you and your destination, but what's certain is that every turn, every nook and cranny, every cracked facade holds surprises and stories and memories you will remember for a long time. The magic of Venice lies in never knowing what's around the corner. Maybe you'll stumble into a restaurant for one of the best Italian meals you've had. Perhaps you'll step back in the refurbished 17th century pharmacy that now sells luxury perfumes. Maybe you'll stand quietly in the crypt of a humble Venetian church, hugged by the cool air as you ponder its history.

Free evening in Venice

As the day comes to an end, the day travellers depart the city, clearing out its streets and restaurants, leaving you to savour the eerie beauty of The Floating City.

Villa Pisani

Say goodbye to Venice because it's the traditional flavours of Italy for you to explore today. First, you go to Villa Pisani. This included attraction boasts awesome art exhibitions and is the epitome of late baroque architecture. Napoleon once owned this huge holiday home and presented it to his stepson as a gift.

Journey to Valdobbiadene

You say farewell to the excesses of the aristocracy and venture to Valdobbiadene for a chance to indulge in something a little sweeter.

Free time in Valdobbiadene or a prosecco tasting, Bassano del Grappa

Visiting Valdobbiadene is like stepping into a living postcard, where the rolling hills and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. This land is home to the best prosecco and belongs to a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, recognized for its centuries-old winemaking tradition. You have the option of an exclusive tasting here. Alternatively, you can explore the town and wander through charming streets and quaint squares. The indulgence continues as you travel to Bassano del Grappa, where you have the chance to sample sweet and intoxicating Grappa. If you've had enough tipple for the day, you can spend time admiring the castle and the town's famous old bridge instead.

Free evening in Padua

You then venture to Padua, allegedly the oldest city in Italy and your home for tonight. This fascinating place sits at the crossroads of science and religion. This is where venerated St Anthony is buried, and where the ground-breaking scientific discoveries were made at the height of the Renaissance.

Journey to Verona

Say ‘ciao!' to the romance of Italy, because we head to the setting of Romeo and Juliet, Verona.

Free time in Verona

You have free time here to reminisce about past lovers at the famous Juliet's Balcony, where the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet comes alive, admire the grandeur of the Arena di Verona, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters still in use today, and leisurely wander through the ancient piazzas, each offering its own unique charm and history.

Lunch and free time in Peschiera del Garda, Lake Garda

We then travel to Lake Garda, where the crystal-clear waters shimmer against the backdrop of the majestic Dolomites, creating a picture-perfect landscape that has captivated artists, poets, and travelers since Roman times. We stop at the charming town of Peschiera del Garda, with its cobblestone streets, scenic canals, and historical fortifications. Nestled at the southern tip of the lake, this picturesque town invites you to explore its ancient walls, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, or an exciting boat ride. You'll also have time to try some local specialties its quaint cafes, all while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake.

Return to Milan

After six memorable days, you return to Milan with one thought: art, food, scenery: Italians do everything a little better. And nowhere is this more apparent than in the Renaissance cities of Northern Italy.

A day of exploring Milan on your own

In Milan, life revolves around art, fashion, and delicious cuisine, so make sure to indulge in them on your free day. If you're a big city lover, you will thrive on this paradise for art and history lovers. Even if big cities aren't your favourite thing, you might be surprised by how an aimless stroll around some of Milan's quieter streets might lead you to hidden gems, like the pink flamingos of Villa Invernizzi or the House of the Omenoni. *Please note: This is a free day for you to explore the city at your own pace and there will not be a guide on hand. The second part of the tour begins tomorrow (day 8) - please see tomorrow for more details.

A day of exploring Milan on your own

As the day continues, the city expands out around you. When it comes to art, seeing da Vinci's Last Supper is a must. This enigmatic piece of work attracts many visitors, so book your tickets in advance. Or perhaps you're less about art and more about architecture, which means you can't miss the Duomo, Milan's most magnificent cathedral. This tremendous tribute to Gothic architecture is one of the biggest churches in Italy and will mesmerize you with its intricate design.

A day of exploring Milan on your own

There's no need to convince you to refuel – you're in Italy, after all. What we love about Italy is that everywhere you go there will be unique dishes waiting to be served. In Milan, how about some Risotto alla Milanese, the simplicity of its ingredients giving it a refined flavour. And you might be tempted to share a platter of Mondeghili (meatballs), another Milanese dish that will tickle the palate. Don't fret because you still have hours left in the day. And in a city obsessed with fashion, even window shopping feels like a unique experience. Visit the flamboyant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or Quadrilatero della Moda, the home of the most luxurious brands.

An evening of exploring Milan on your own

As evening sets in, you might follow in the footsteps of Milanese and partake in aperitivo, the pre-dinner ritual traditionally held anywhere between 5pm and 8pm. Drinks, snacks, and conversation? Given all you've seen today, that should be easy. Savour that moment of relaxation after the day and get ready for the next stage of your journey.

Travel to Lake Como

You travel directly from the metropolis of Milan to Lake Como, the most stunning lake in the region. Framed by the Rhaetian Alps, this Italian slice of heaven's crystal-clear waters seduced the most famous writers of the 18th and 19th centuries. You may even recognise its sparkling waters from James Bond's Casino Royale (2006).

Boat trip to Lenno

Admire the mountainous vistas and colourful villas from the unique perspective of the water, as you hop on a leisurely boat trip across to the small Italian village of Lenno. Your boat trip is included in your tour price.

Lunchtime in Lenno

Once you're on dry land, you'll have a few hours free to enjoy the charms of Lenno. A walk through town and along the seaside promenade boasts an 11th-century octagonal baptistry, a Romanesque-style crypt, and enough lovely lakeside views to last a lifetime all the way across to Bellagio. Make sure to take a break and enjoy what might be one of the most picturesque lunches of your life before we head back out on the road. We have so much more to see!

Cross into Switzerland and free evening in Locarno

You then cross the border into Switzerland and visit Lugano. You have a couple of hours here to explore however you please. People watch over a coffee in Piazza della Riforma, pour over the frescos at the Church of S. Maria degli Angioli, or feast your eyes on more waterside scenes on the shores of Lake Lugano. You travel to the quaint and cultural town of Locarno for your evening and overnight stay.

Depart for Stresa

Wake up, eat a scrumptious breakfast, and get ready for more lakeside adventures. You first travel to elegant Stresa, a resort town on Italy's Lake Maggiore.

The town of Stresa

You arrive in the beautiful town of Stresa, back over the Italian border. Here you have the option to take a boat ride to Isola Bella as an enhanced experience. This island sits in Lake Maggiore and offers visitors a chance to wander through gorgeous gardens and admire the exuberant extravagances of a wealthy 17th-century family in Palazzo Borromeo. If you don't fancy a trip over the water then not to worry! You can spend your free time here as you wish and enjoy wandering among the art deco hotel promenade before finding the perfect spot for lunch on the shoreline.

Sacro Monte of Ghiffa

In the afternoon, you embark on a journey to Sacro Monte of Ghiffa, a breathtaking sanctuary nestled in the hills overlooking Lake Maggiore. This evocative UNESCO World Heritage site comprises of a trinity of stunning chapels set in a luscious nature reserve with views across Lake Maggiore. Enjoy a stroll through the gardens as you ponder its history and soak in the tranquillity of nature.

Return to Locarno

After a day full of beautiful vistas you travel to Locarno for your second night on the shores of Lake Maggiore, ready for another brilliant evening of food with a view.

A visit to Santa Maria Maggiore

We set off early this morning and for good reason! We drive straight into the Alps and your first stop of the day, the alpine town of Santa Maria Maggiore. You have time to grab a coffee and snap a few pictures before taking the winding roads up to the Simplon Pass.

The Simplon Pass

The Simplon Pass is a high mountain pass between the Pennine Alps and the Lepontine Alps in Switzerland. This is a historic location that's been used as a key route through the Alps by Stone Age dwellers, Romans, and smugglers of the Middle Ages. You make a brief stop here but it's worthwhile for the views and the incredible photos you will capture. You will also have time to grab a snack and comfort break if required.

The Train to Zermatt

Now, it's time to discover one of the most admired peaks in all of Europe, the Matterhorn. You arrive in Täsch and take a round trip on a train to Zermatt where the views on this journey alone will astound you. Zermatt is the perfect “base camp” for your afternoon. Not just for aspiring mountaineers, you will enjoy the views, the relaxed pace of this car-free ski resort and grab lunch in one of its lively restaurants, all under the watchful gaze of the mountain beyond.

Free evening in Lausanne

Back on our coach, you travel to Lausanne. Overlooking Lake Geneva, this town is home to the Olympic Museum, grand mountain views, and your bed for the next two nights.

Depart for Gruyères

We set off for the day and wee hope you have an appetite, because your first stop of the day is the home of Gruyère cheese, Gruyères.

Explore Gruyères

You arrive in the town of Gruyères and you may know it from its reputation of course as a mecca for cheese lovers the world over. Those who consider themselves a connoisseur and want to learn more about the centuries old production methods found in the town can opt to visit the cheese museum and maybe partake of a fondue lunch.? But those who might not have the palate for it, do not worry! There is plenty to enjoy about this charming town from the 13th-century hilltop fortress Château de Gruyères to the chocolate factory and the Disneyesque town square and castle. We can't promise a fairytale but it will be pretty darn close! Opt to enjoy an early lunch here or save your appetite for the next stop on our tour.

Visit Gstaad

You then travel alongside Alpine peaks to Gstaad. This glamourous Alpine village is a favourite hangout spot for ski-loving celebrities. Wander among the glamour and luxury of the village, find a spot to take in a late lunch and see who you can spot! This place is a people watchers dream destination, but we can't help just take in the views of the surrounding mountains.

Chateau de Chillon and return to Lausanne

On our way to Lausanne, there will be many photo stops on the way. You'll understand why with such a picturesque drive. Near Montreux, you have the option to visit inside Chillon Castle, an unbelievably idyllic stronghold that deserves its claim as Switzerland's most visited castle. You arrive back in Lausanne in time for dinner.

Depart for Lauterbrunnen

You head out this morning after enjoying your final night in Lausanne but ready for more. The valley of 72 waterfalls, an outdoor pursuits paradise, and your first stop today.

Free Day in Lauterbrunnen

Lauterbrunnen is a village that packs a punch. Set in a valley with a backdrop of the 300m-­high Staubbach Falls, such a setting is something to be seen to be believed. In fact this is the place that in 1911, inspired the fantastical landscape of JRR Tolkien's Elvish city of Rivendell in his Lord of the Rings novels. You have the day to enjoy as you wish and your driver should be able to help you plan your day ahead.

Free Day in Lauterbrunnen

Those that wish to journey on your driver can help you plan rail tickets to further villages and even Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest altitude rail station considered the ‘Top of Europe' where you will struggle to find such impactful vistas anywhere else on earth.

Free evening in Interlaken

Once you've gratified your senses with Lauterbrunnen's imposing mountain views and pastoral Swiss splendours, you travel to Interlaken. This small resort town, nestled snug between the mountains, is your home for the evening.

Visit to UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch

You leave Interlaken and head through the bucolic landscape of the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch. Stroll through typical sound-of-music style scenes of cows chomping through fields of green grass and admire sublime views.

Altdorf

Nature may rejuvenate the senses, but it doesn't fill your belly; so your guide will find you a great place for a lunch break today and we will head there mid morning. We'll continue to explore this wonderful area, making little stops here and there depending on the group and day, perhaps the historic town of Altdorf - we like to stay flexible!

Free Afternoon in Bellinzona

You then descend from the heights of the Alps to Bellinzona. Since Roman times, grand castles, now UNESCO heritage sites, have stoically guarded the access to northern Italy. You have the choice here to visit the castles or relax in the town for a free afternoon.

Arrive back in Milan

You return back to Milan this evening with stories to share and memories that will stay with you forever, of majestic mountains, roaring waterfalls, of lakes and villages lunches and all the people you have met along the way.