Milan to Venice & the Dolomites - 6 days

Begin your Italian adventure with a morning rendezvous at Hotel AC SESTO (or similar) in Milan, where your journey unfolds with a scenic drive to the enchanting shores of Lake Garda. Marvel at the serene blue waters and mountain vistas before exploring the historic charm of Peschiera del Garda, a lakeside town laced with canals and cobbled streets. Continue to the romantic city of Verona, where you can immerse yourself in the legend of Juliet’s Balcony or admire the grandeur of the Arena di Verona. As dusk falls, arrive in Venice, your base for the next two nights, and experience the city’s magical transformation as evening descends, promising an unforgettable stay.

Awaken in Venice and set out on a guided walking tour, unveiling the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems with a knowledgeable local. After the tour, the day is yours to savour: relax in the lively Piazza San Marco, visit renowned galleries, or meander through the labyrinthine streets and picturesque canals. For a quintessential Venetian experience, glide along the Grand Canal on a gondola, admiring the elegant palazzi that line the waterways. As evening approaches, Venice’s unique ambiance deepens, offering a tranquil and enchanting atmosphere to enjoy at your leisure.

Depart Venice after breakfast and journey into the heart of northern Italy’s wine country, arriving in Valdobbiadene, famed for its rolling vineyards and celebrated prosecco. Enjoy a tasting or a leisurely stroll through the town’s inviting squares. Continue to the picturesque village of Mel, where cobbled streets and tranquil piazzas invite you to sample authentic Venetian cuisine. Indulge in a local gelato before heading to Cortina d’Ampezzo, the renowned alpine resort nestled in the Dolomites. Here, crisp mountain air and breathtaking views welcome you for an evening of relaxation or exploration in this stylish mountain town.

Set off from Cortina d’Ampezzo for a day immersed in the dramatic landscapes of the Dolomites. Ascend into the Tofane mountains via the Tofana–Freccia nel Cielo cable car, where panoramic vistas await. After a scenic lunch, follow the circular drive to the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a breathtaking viewpoint of the region’s famed peaks. Continue to Lake Misurina, the ‘Pearl of the Dolomites,’ where tranquil waters mirror the surrounding mountains. Return to Cortina d’Ampezzo for an evening at your own pace, perhaps exploring the town’s elegant centre or stargazing under clear alpine skies.

Venture deeper into the Dolomites, beginning with the dramatic Pordoi Pass, where a thrilling ride on the Sass Pordoi cable car brings you to nearly 3,000 metres for awe-inspiring views of the Sella massif. Explore the lush Val di Fiemme, renowned for its pristine spruce forests and musical heritage, before journeying to Trento. Upon arrival, discover the city’s Renaissance elegance in Piazza Duomo, where the Fountain of Neptune stands amid mountain vistas and ornate architecture. Enjoy an evening in this vibrant city, where history and natural beauty blend seamlessly.

After a final breakfast in Trento, delve into the region’s rich past with a visit to Castello del Buonconsiglio, a formidable fortress turned museum. Journey south to the shores of Lake Garda, stopping in Bardolino, a town celebrated for its olive oil and lakeside charm. Enjoy a tasting or a leisurely stroll before continuing to Bergamo, a hilltop city with a captivating upper town. Explore the Renaissance beauty of Cappella Colleoni and the ornate Bergamo Cathedral, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere in the piazzas. As evening approaches, return to Milan, where your unforgettable multi-day tour concludes.