North Lakes 4 Days / 3 Nights Escorted Tour

Day 1 Milan > Lake Orta > Stresa > Como
Departure at 8:30 am from the hotel Starhotels Ritz in Milan to the Lake Orta, a small and charming lake situated in the north-eastern side of the region Piedmont. Stop in the beautiful village of Orta San Giulio for a short visit. Then, tour by boat to reach the island of San Giulio, just in front of the village: it is known as “ the Pearl of the Lake”, almost entirely occupied by the Monastery Mater Ecclesiae, famous for studies on antique books. After a short visit, you will take the ferry back to Orta and then leave by bus to Stresa, on Lake Maggiore, one of the largest Italian lakes. Wedged between the pre-alps, and of clear glacial origin, it is framed in its lower section by the soft hills of the region of Novara and - in the upper section - by high mountain peaks with perpetual snows. These features make possible an average temperature during all seasons, milder in winter than in the inner areas and cooled down in summer by the breezes that blow on the water's surface changing the lake’s color. Thanks to its mild climate, many species of flowers and plants typical to the sub-tropical climate could adapt to the lake areas climate. Arrival in Stresa, an international tourist resort situated in a central but also panoramic and picturesque position along the lakeside roadway, just in front of the ‘Borromee’ islands. Free time for lunch (in Stresa or “Isola dei Pescatori”). In the afternoon, tour of the “Isola dei Pescatori” (Fishermen’s Island) by boat. The island, was named after the main activity that, over the centuries, has characterized this fishermen town. Although only few families still maintain the original activity, the identity of the small community appears intact. Tourists are fascinated by its simple houses, the narrow lanes, the stone portals and the attractive underpasses. We will continue to the “Isola Bella” (The Beautiful Island), where you might opt for a visit of the Borromeo Palace with its magnificent gardens. Return to Stresa (free time for lunch, not included). At the and of the visit departure to Como. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 2 Como > Bellagio > Varenna > Bergamo > Brescia
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting off on a short visit of Como, a small town with amazing natural panoramas of mountains, lake Como, and wild alpine valleys. You’ll also see the industrialized Brianzola hill, downtown Como, and the small houses in the village. The lake itself, sometimes called Lario, has long been famous for its y-shape, its three branches intersecting at Bellagio, that you will visit via boat. Separating the lake’s two southern arms with the alps dominating the horizon to the north, Bellagio is home to some of the most charming landscapes in Italy. Spend some time strolling this picturesque village with its small streets, luxury hotels, villas, and gardens, stopping for lunch in one of the many cafés in town (not included). Back on the boat, you will make your way to Varenna that afternoon, where you will have a panoramic tour before moving on to Bergamo, a truly historic and artistic jewel characterized by its urban structure: the “lower town” (città bassa) is modern and dynamic, while the famous “upper town” (città alta) houses the city’s medieval history. After a short walking tour in the city center, departure to Brescia, where you will check in at your new hotel for the night.


Day 3 Brescia > Sirmione > Riva Del Garda > Verona
Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is the next destination. After breakfast at your hotel, you will have a panoramic tour of the lake’s west coast, taking in the splendid natural scenery: brilliant colors, the Dolomites of Brenta, and the gentle slopes of the moraine hills. Enjoy the area’s rich vegetation, including lemon trees, oleanders, magnolias, and bougainvillea that flourish thanks to the Mediterranean climate. So be sure to taste some of the olive oil and wines made locally. Next, you will move on to Sirmione, where you will see the lake Garda and its surroundings at their finest. See the sun shining off of the lake’s blue waters and tree-lined shores, the Sirmione cape, the Castle, and the Catullo’s ruins during a boat tour. Back on land, you will have free time for lunch before departing for Riva del Garda on the north side of the lake, where you will see its venetian-style historic center. Verona will be your final stop of the day, where you will check in to your hotel for the night.

Day 4 Verona > Milan
Fuel up on breakfast at your hotel before setting out to see the famous city of Verona, a work of art in itself. This fascinating crossroad of historical periods and cultures (both classical and Germanic) is a blend of both Nordic and Mediterranean influences that is both ancient and modern. A walk through its narrow streets will allow you to get in touch with Verona’s varied and fascinating past: traces of its splendid roman origins, its medieval structures, its magnificent renaissance palaces, as well as the impressive fortifications protecting it. The combination of art and history will fascinate you. Spend some time eating lunch (not included) before departing for Milan, where your tour will come to an end.