Italian Lakes, Alps & Dolomites - 9 days

Begin your northern Italy adventure in the vibrant city of Milan, where you are greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel (Hilton Milan or similar). After settling in, the remainder of the day is yours to discover the cosmopolitan energy of Italy’s fashion capital at your own pace. Enjoy the city’s stylish streets, indulge in local cuisine, or simply relax and prepare for the journey ahead.

After a delicious breakfast, set out from Milan and journey north to the glamorous Swiss resort of St. Moritz, where you have time to explore its alpine charm. Later, board the iconic Bernina Express for an unforgettable train ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps, passing through picturesque villages and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Arriving in Tirano, your driver awaits to return you to Milan for a restful evening.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Milan before meeting your expert guide for a captivating walking tour through the city’s historic heart. Begin at the storied Porta Venezia, stroll along the elegant Corso Venezia, and wander through the tranquil Giardini Indro Montanelli. Admire masterpieces at the Galleria d’Arte Moderna, pass by the renowned Teatro alla Scala, and marvel at the magnificent façade of the Duomo. The tour concludes at the impressive Castello Sforzesco, where you can unwind with a classic Italian aperitivo. The evening is yours to explore Milan’s vibrant nightlife or relax at your hotel.

Bid farewell to Milan as you travel to the enchanting lakeside town of Peschiera del Garda. Continue to Trento, where you’ll be captivated by the grandeur of Castello del Buonconsiglio and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. After a leisurely lunch, follow the scenic wine route to the picturesque village of Caldaro, famous for its serene lake and vineyards. Your day concludes in Bolzano, where you settle into your comfortable hotel (Four Points by Sheraton Bolzano or similar) and enjoy the evening at leisure.

After breakfast, set off for Merano, a delightful town renowned for its festive markets and charming old town. Enjoy free time for lunch before heading to Vipiteno, a picturesque town celebrated for its medieval architecture. Return to Bolzano to admire the stunning Gothic cathedral and stroll along Via dei Portici, the city’s lively historic core. The evening is free for you to further explore Bolzano’s inviting atmosphere or unwind at your hotel.

Today’s journey begins in Bressanone, a charming town in the Eisack Valley, where you can admire its centuries-old cathedral and savor the unique blend of Austrian and Italian culture. Continue to Brunico, with its colorful medieval streets and panoramic views from Kronplatz mountain. In the afternoon, marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Braies, nestled among the dramatic Dolomite peaks. If Lake Braies is inaccessible, Lake Anterselva offers equally stunning scenery. The day ends in the renowned mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo, where a delightful dinner awaits at your hotel (Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa or similar).

Set out from Cortina d’Ampezzo to explore the awe-inspiring Dolomite Mountains, including the legendary Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Visit the sparkling Lake Misurina, famed for its breathtaking alpine backdrop, and continue to Lake Dobbiaco, known for its emerald waters. Journey onward to the charming village of San Vito di Cadore, framed by the majestic peaks of Mount Antelao and Mount Pelmo. Return to Cortina for a relaxing evening and a sumptuous dinner at your hotel.

Depart Cortina d’Ampezzo and travel to Bassano del Grappa, a picturesque town at the base of the Venetian Prealps. Stroll through its cobbled streets, admire medieval towers and elegant Venetian palaces, and cross the iconic Ponte degli Alpini, designed by Andrea Palladio. Discover the art of grappa making at the Museo della Grappa, complete with a tasting session. Afterwards, return to Milan for your final night, with time to enjoy the city’s vibrant ambiance at your leisure.

Enjoy a final breakfast at your Milan hotel before checking out. A convenient transfer to the airport marks the end of your unforgettable northern Italy and Swiss Alps journey, leaving you with cherished memories and a longing to return.