ITINERARY
Day 1 - Milan/Stresa/Lugano/Como
Departure at 8:30am from hotel in Milan to Lake Maggiore, one of the largest Italian Lakes. Wedged between the pre-alps, of glacial origin, it is framed in its lower section by the soft hills of the “Novarese” region, and in the upper section by high mountain peaks, some with perennial snow. These features make it possible for the coastal areas to be temperate, milder in winter than in the inner areas and cooled down in summer by the breezes that blow on the water’s surface. Many species of flowers and plants typical to the sub-tropical climate adapt to the costal areas. Arrival in Stresa, an international tourist resort situated in a central yet panoramic and picturesque position along the lakeside roadway. Tour of Pescatori island by boat. The island is named after the main activity which over the centuries has characterized this fishermen town. Although only a few families continue the fishing industry, the identity of the small community is still intact. Tourists are fascinated by its simple houses, the narrow lanes, the stone portals and the attractive underpasses. Continue to Bella Island to visit Borromeo Palace with its magnificent gardens. Return to Stresa. (free time for lunch, not included). In the afternoon, after a panoramic tour around the lake, reach Lugano (Switzerland frontier). A very nice city, with luxury shops and art galleries. At the end of the visit depart to Como. Overnight.
Day 2 - Como/Bellagio/Varenna/Bergamo/Brescia
Breakfast at the hotel. Short visit of Como. An amazing small province rich in atmosphere and panoramas. It changes from the high mountain to the lake, from the wild alpine valley to the industrialized brianzola hill, from the city area of Como to the villages of little houses, from the fauna oasis in the north to the ski tracks in the south. Como lake has long been famous for its setting at the intersection of the three branches of the Y-shaped lake. Reach Bellagio by boat, situated at the tip of the peninsula separating the lake's two southern arms, with the Alps visible across the lake to the north. It is situated on the most renowned beach on the Italian landscape. A picturesque village with small streets, luxury hotels, villas and gardens. Visit. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon depart by boat to Varenna. Panoramic tour and departure to Bergamo. City characterized by a division of the urban structure on two levels, the “Lower town” (Città bassa), modern and dynamic and the famous “Upper town” (Città alta), a truly historic and artistic jewel. After a small walking tour of in the city centre, departure to Brescia. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - Brescia/Sirmione/Riva del Garda/Verona
Breakfast at the hotel, depart for Lake Garda, the largest Italian lake. Panoramic tour on the West Coast. Lake Garda offers a splendid natural scenery, full of colours, surrounded by the Dolomites of Brenta in the north and the gentle slopes of the morainic hills in the south. Rich vegetation flourishes thanks to the Mediterranean climate: lemon trees, oleanders, magnolias and bouganville, vineyards and olive groves. Arrival in Sirmione. Here the lake offers its best panorama, really sunny with the blue of its waters and the green of its trees. Boat tour to view the Sirmione Cape, the castle and the Catullo’s ruins. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon departure to Riva del Garda on the North side of the lake. Its historic centre shows signs of Venetian domain. Leave to Verona. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 4 - Verona/Milan
Breakfast at the hotel and visit the famous city of Verona: a fascinating cross of historical periods and cultures (both classical and Germanic), a blend of both Nordic and Mediterranean influences; the city is at the same time both ancient and modern. A walk through its narrow streets allows one to get in touch with its varied and fascinating past: traces of its splendid Roman origins, its prevailing medieval structure dating back to the time of knights and castles, its magnificent Renaissance palaces as well as the impressive fortifications which protect it. A blend of art and history which continuously fascinates visitors. Free time for lunch. In the afternoon depart to Milan. End of services. |
