Escorted Northern Italy Getaway: Lakes, Trains & Rivieras
Unforgettable experiences in Italy
Discover the enchanting beauty and cultural treasures of Northern Italy on this expertly curated journey. Start in Milan before exploring the stunning Lake Maggiore, the Italian and French Rivieras, the picturesque Tuscan coastline, and the romantic city of Venice, returning full circle to Milan. Delight in a breathtaking ride on the Centovalli Train, and visit iconic destinations such as Lake Como, Nice, Monaco, Portofino, Bologna, and Verona – all with guided city tours, comfortable transportation, and much more included.
What's Included
- 9 nights accommodation in Italy, in the following hotels or similar:
- 3 nights in the Lake Maggiore area (Verbania) at Hotel Belvedere San Gottardo
- 2 nights on the Italian Riviera (Alassio) at Grand Hotel Spiaggia
- 1 night in the Versilia area at Zen Hotel Versilia
- 2 nights in the Venice area (Mestre) at Smart Hotel Holiday Venice
- 1 night near Milan at AC Hotel Milan Sesto
- Tours & Tastings
- Full-day excursion to Lake Como with ferry ride, including free time in Bellagio
- Full-day excursion to the Centovalli train (scenic rail trip from Domodossola, Italy to Locarno, Switzerland including panoramic carriage)
- Visit to the Langhe area with Barolo wine tasting (en-route from Lake Maggiore area to Alassio)
- Full-day excursion to the French Riviera including Nice and Monaco with local guide
- Visits to Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, via boat ride from Rapallo (en-route from Alassio to Versilia)
- Visit to Bologna including 2-hour tour with local guide and lunch at a restaurant (en-route from Versilia to Venice area)
- Lunch includes typical dish of Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, glass of wine and water
- Excursion to Venice by train and return boat ride including 2 hour tour with local guide*
- Visit to Verona including 2-hour tour with local guide (en-route from Mestre to Milan area)
- Transportation, Meals & More
- Transfers to/from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) on arrival and departure
- 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
- Coach transportation as needed throughout the trip
- Local English-speaking tour manager at the group's disposal throughout the trip
- Headsets throughout the trip to hear the tour guides clearly
- 24-hour emergency telephone support via the local office in Italy
Not Included:
- Venice access fee (€5 per person)*
- Local city taxes (apx. €2-4 per person, per night and must be paid directly to hotels in destination)
- Porterage at hotels
- Entrance fees/meals other than those mentioned above
- On nights that dinner is included, drinks are at additional cost
- Gratuity (Suggestions below but note exceptional circumstances may warrant a higher tip)
- €3 per person for local guides on half-day tours, €5 on full-day tours
- €5 per person per day for drivers
- €5 per person per day for Tour Director
*The city of Venice requires visitors to pay an access fee prior to their visit. Passengers are responsible for completing the online registration individually and must be able to present a QR code if required. Please see this page for further details.
Passengers are asked to limit themselves to one full-size piece of luggage and one personal item (i.e handbag, small tote bag, camera bag) per person. Vehicle type depends on final group size, Wi-Fi/restrooms on board cannot be guaranteed. Hotels are not located in the city-centre due to accessibility for coaches. This tour is very active with minimal free time; passengers with limited mobility may be more comfortable on one of our holidays that requires less daily walking.
Please Note: This is fully escorted group tour with a maximum of 50 passengers. Departures are guaranteed.
Great Ways to Explore
See bucket-list worthy Italian destinations.
Take day trips over to France and Switzerland.
Learn about Northern Italy's culture and history.
Enjoy comfortable 4-star hotels along your way.
Indulge in regional dishes hailing from all parts of Italy.
Hop on board this captivating 9-night escorted journey through Northern Italy, brimming with charm and unforgettable experiences! Begin in Milan, where you'll enjoy three nights in the heart of the stunning Lake District, staying in a luxurious 4-star hotel. Explore the shimmering beauty of Lake Como on a full-day tour, complete with leisurely free time in Bellagio, and take in the awe-inspiring views aboard the scenic Centovalli train as you cross into Switzerland.
Continue to the Italian Riviera for a two-night retreat, with a stop in the Langhe region to savour a delightful Barolo wine tasting. Then, venture across the border into France for a glamorous day trip to the French Riviera, featuring visits to Nice and the glitzy principality of Monaco.
Next, journey to the Tuscan coast, pausing in Rapallo to set sail for the breathtaking towns of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure. En route to Venice, make a stop in Bologna before marvelling at the enchanting canals of Venice, where you'll sip wine in the iconic Piazza San Marco. Conclude your adventure with a stop in Verona, the city of romance, for one last magical evening before returning to Milan.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- 9 nights accommodation in Italy, in the following hotels or similar:
- 3 nights in the Lake Maggiore area (Verbania) at Hotel Belvedere San Gottardo
- 2 nights on the Italian Riviera (Alassio) at Grand Hotel Spiaggia
- 1 night in the Versilia area at Zen Hotel Versilia
- 2 nights in the Venice area (Mestre) at Smart Hotel Holiday Venice
- 1 night near Milan at AC Hotel Milan Sesto
- Tours & Tastings
- Full-day excursion to Lake Como with ferry ride, including free time in Bellagio
- Full-day excursion to the Centovalli train (scenic rail trip from Domodossola, Italy to Locarno, Switzerland including panoramic carriage)
- Visit to the Langhe area with Barolo wine tasting (en-route from Lake Maggiore area to Alassio)
- Full-day excursion to the French Riviera including Nice and Monaco with local guide
- Visits to Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure, via boat ride from Rapallo (en-route from Alassio to Versilia)
- Visit to Bologna including 2-hour tour with local guide and lunch at a restaurant (en-route from Versilia to Venice area)
- Lunch includes typical dish of Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, glass of wine and water
- Excursion to Venice by train and return boat ride including 2 hour tour with local guide*
- Visit to Verona including 2-hour tour with local guide (en-route from Mestre to Milan area)
- Transportation, Meals & More
- Transfers to/from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) on arrival and departure
- 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
- Coach transportation as needed throughout the trip
- Local English-speaking tour manager at the group's disposal throughout the trip
- Headsets throughout the trip to hear the tour guides clearly
- 24-hour emergency telephone support via the local office in Italy
Not Included:
- Venice access fee (€5 per person)*
- Local city taxes (apx. €2-4 per person, per night and must be paid directly to hotels in destination)
- Porterage at hotels
- Entrance fees/meals other than those mentioned above
- On nights that dinner is included, drinks are at additional cost
- Gratuity (Suggestions below but note exceptional circumstances may warrant a higher tip)
- €3 per person for local guides on half-day tours, €5 on full-day tours
- €5 per person per day for drivers
- €5 per person per day for Tour Director
*The city of Venice requires visitors to pay an access fee prior to their visit. Passengers are responsible for completing the online registration individually and must be able to present a QR code if required. Please see this page for further details.
Passengers are asked to limit themselves to one full-size piece of luggage and one personal item (i.e handbag, small tote bag, camera bag) per person. Vehicle type depends on final group size, Wi-Fi/restrooms on board cannot be guaranteed. Hotels are not located in the city-centre due to accessibility for coaches. This tour is very active with minimal free time; passengers with limited mobility may be more comfortable on one of our holidays that requires less daily walking.
Please Note: This is fully escorted group tour with a maximum of 50 passengers. Departures are guaranteed.
See bucket-list worthy Italian destinations.
Take day trips over to France and Switzerland.
Learn about Northern Italy's culture and history.
Enjoy comfortable 4-star hotels along your way.
Indulge in regional dishes hailing from all parts of Italy.
Hop on board this captivating 9-night escorted journey through Northern Italy, brimming with charm and unforgettable experiences! Begin in Milan, where you'll enjoy three nights in the heart of the stunning Lake District, staying in a luxurious 4-star hotel. Explore the shimmering beauty of Lake Como on a full-day tour, complete with leisurely free time in Bellagio, and take in the awe-inspiring views aboard the scenic Centovalli train as you cross into Switzerland.
Continue to the Italian Riviera for a two-night retreat, with a stop in the Langhe region to savour a delightful Barolo wine tasting. Then, venture across the border into France for a glamorous day trip to the French Riviera, featuring visits to Nice and the glitzy principality of Monaco.
Next, journey to the Tuscan coast, pausing in Rapallo to set sail for the breathtaking towns of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure. En route to Venice, make a stop in Bologna before marvelling at the enchanting canals of Venice, where you'll sip wine in the iconic Piazza San Marco. Conclude your adventure with a stop in Verona, the city of romance, for one last magical evening before returning to Milan.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
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Day 1. Welcome to Italy!
Arrive in Milan and enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel nestled in the stunning Lake Maggiore region. As the evening unfolds, gather with your expert tour guide for an engaging briefing, setting the stage for the incredible adventures that lie ahead on your unforgettable journey.
Transfer from Milan Airport to Lake Maggiore Hotel
Check-in - Hotel Belvedere San Gottardo
Hotel Belvedere San Gottardo is a 4-star hotel located on the lakefront. The hotel features a bar and restaurant that serves authentic Italian delicacies. Guests have access to the hotel's breakfast buffet and the terrace which features panoramic views of the mountains and Lake Maggiore.
Guest rooms have a private bathroom with a bidet, hair dryer, and complimentary toiletries. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a TV, minibar, desk, phone, safe, and patio. Additionally, limited room service is available.
The hotel is just a short 10-minute walk from the city center of Pallanza. Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto is a 5-minute drive from the hotel and Villa Pallavicino Park is a 36-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 2. Lake Maggiore
Begin your day with a private coach journey to the stunning shores of Lake Como, where natural beauty and tranquillity await. Take in the lake’s awe-inspiring views before boarding a ferry from Tremezzo to the enchanting town of Bellagio. Here, you'll have plenty of time to wander its charming streets, savour a delicious lunch, and soak up the sights at your leisure.
Known as Lario, Lake Como is Europe’s deepest lake, plunging an astonishing 414 metres and forming the shape of an inverted 'Y'. Its captivating blend of diverse landscapes and rich culture has enchanted travellers for centuries. This timeless allure has inspired the creation of elegant villas, lush parks, and meticulously crafted gardens along its serene shores, making it a must-see destination.
Lake Como
Day 3. Lake Maggiore (with day tour to Switzerland!)
Today promises a journey filled with breathtaking scenery as you travel to the charming town of Domodossola. From here, board the picturesque Centovalli Train bound for Locarno, Switzerland. This unforgettable rail experience winds through the stunning landscapes of the Italian and Swiss Alps, offering unrivalled views of rugged mountains, lush valleys, and quaint alpine villages.
With full access to the panoramic carriage included, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas throughout the journey. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of this magical route, creating memories you’ll treasure forever.
Domodossola Centovalli Train Pass
Day 4. Lake Maggiore - Italian Riviera
Your adventure continues as you make your way to the dazzling Italian Riviera, with an unforgettable stop in the picturesque Langhe region for a winery tour and a tasting of the famed Barolo wine.
Nestled in the heart of Piedmont, the Langhe region is a landscape of rolling hills, historic medieval castles, and vineyards producing some of the world’s most celebrated wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco. During your visit, you’ll explore the vineyards, learning about the unique terroir and the art of grape cultivation that make this area so special.
As the day winds down, enjoy a delightful included dinner at your hotel, rounding off a perfect day of discovery and indulgence.
Check-in - Grand Hotel Spiaggia
Grand Hotel Spiaggia is a 4-star hotel with a private beach. Guests can enjoy the hotel's panoramic rooftop complete with a garden, pool, jacuzzi, and a solarium.
Other amenities include a game room, library, and gym. Guests can dine at the hotel's sea-view restaurant which serves regional and national meals (vegetarian options available), and relax with a cocktail at the bar.
Guest room amenities include a private bathroom with a bidet, hairdryer, and complimentary toiletries, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, TV, desk, safe, and room service.
Riviera Airport is a 10-minute drive from the hotel, and Alassio Train Station is a quick 18-minute walk away.
Day 5. Italian Riviera (with day tour to France!)
Today, venture across the border into France for an unforgettable full-day exploration of Nice and Monaco. In Nice, admire the dazzling azure waters of the Côte d'Azur as you drive along the picturesque harbour, pass the iconic Hotel Negresco, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the vibrant flower market.
Next, journey to the glamorous principality of Monaco, a jewel on the Mediterranean renowned for its rich history, world-class casino, and extravagant yachts. Wander through the enchanting old town, home to a grand palace and a historic cathedral, and soak up the chic ambiance of this elite destination where style and sophistication reign supreme.
Return to your hotel in the evening to savour another delightful included dinner, bringing a perfect day of discovery to a close.
Nice
Day 6. Italian Riviera - Versilia
Today, travel from the captivating Italian Riviera to the stunning Tuscan coast, with a delightful stop in Rapallo to set sail for Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.
Board a scheduled boat to Portofino, home to one of the Mediterranean’s most exquisite natural harbours. Be mesmerised by the charming scenery of this iconic town, where vibrant fishing boats mingle with luxury yachts, and inviting cafés beckon you to relax and soak up the atmosphere. A short boat ride then brings you to the elegant Santa Margherita, where you can stroll along its sophisticated promenade and revel in the endless coastal views.
Later, arrive at your hotel near Versilia, the perfect place to unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead. This evening, enjoy a delicious included dinner as you settle into the Tuscan charm.
Check-in - Zen Hotel Versilia
Zen Hotel Versilia is a 4-star hotel in the center of the city. Guests can enjoy everything from fine seafood dishes to an extensive Italian wine list at the hotel's restaurant.
There is a panoramic rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi pool, and guests have the option to rent a bike from the front desk to explore the city.
Guest rooms have a private bathroom with a bidet, hairdryer, and slippers. Other amenities include air conditioning, a TV, balcony, minibar, safe, phone, desk, and room service.
Pisa International Airport is a 30-minute drive from the hotel and Spiaggia del Tonfano Beach is a short 16-minute walk from the hotel.
Day 7. Versilia - Venice
Today, journey towards the enchanting city of Venice, with an exciting stop in Bologna along the way. Here, enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of this historic gem, followed by a delicious lunch featuring the iconic **Tagliatelle alla Bolognese**, perfectly paired with a glass of wine and water.
Bologna boasts one of Europe’s most stunningly preserved old towns, adorned with medieval towers and nearly 40 kilometres of arcades – the elegant covered walkways that weave through its vibrant centre. Your tour will reveal the city’s rich heritage, including the iconic **Towers of Asinelli and Garisenda**, the magnificent **Cathedral of San Petronio**, and the ornate **Fountain of Neptune**.
Later, continue your journey to the Venice area, where the timeless charm of the canals awaits.
Check-in - Smart Hotel Holiday
Staying at the Smart Hotel Holiday near Venice is an experience that marries modern technology with the charm of this historic city. The hotel offers stylish, well-appointed rooms featuring smart controls for lighting and temperature, ensuring personalized comfort. Guests can enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi and smart TVs, making it easy to stay connected and entertained.
The hotel's restaurant serves a delicious blend of Venetian and international cuisine, perfect for indulging after a day of exploration.
Located conveniently near public transportation, the hotel provides easy access to Venice's iconic landmarks, including St. Mark's Square and the Grand Canal. With a dedicated concierge service, guests can effortlessly arrange tours and activities tailored to their interests.
Day 8. Venice
Today, travel in style by train and boat to the heart of Venice, where a guided tour will reveal the magic of this romantic city of canals. Your adventure begins at the magnificent **Doge's Palace**, a stunning symbol of Venetian power and elegance. From here, you'll explore the iconic landmarks between **St. Mark’s Square** and the **Rialto Bridge**, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history and charm.
Along the way, take in the awe-inspiring view of the Grand Canal, Venice’s main thoroughfare, where the bustling water traffic and picturesque buildings create an unforgettable scene. This is the perfect introduction to the enchanting beauty of Venice.
Grand Canal, Venice
A Tip For Your Trip: The city of Venice may require visitors to pay an access fee prior to their visit. Passengers are responsible for completing the online registration individually and must be able to present a QR code if required. Refer to Venice City Access Information for details.
Day 9. Venice - Milan
Today marks the final full day of your Italian adventure! As you head towards Milan, your journey includes a memorable stop in **Verona** for a 2-hour guided tour of this stunning city. Following Venice, Verona is the second-largest Roman settlement in Italy and one of Veneto’s most important centres of art and culture.
Your expert guide will lead you through **Piazza Brà**, where you'll marvel at the impressive **Roman amphitheatre**, stroll along the chic **Via Mazzini** shopping street, and explore the charming old town, rich in history and character. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this world-renowned city of love before continuing to your final destination near Milan.
In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a celebratory toast and enjoy an included dinner, commemorating the end of your unforgettable journey through Italy.
Check-in - AC Hotel Milan Sesto
The AC Hotel Milan Sesto offers a sleek and modern retreat in the heart of Milan's bustling Sesto San Giovanni district. The hotel features contemporary design elements, creating an ambiance that is both sophisticated and welcoming.
Each room is equipped with luxurious amenities, including plush bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a range of dining options at the hotel's on-site restaurant, which serves delicious Italian cuisine and international dishes.
The fitness center is well-equipped, allowing guests to maintain their workout routine during their stay. Business passengers will appreciate the state-of-the-art meeting facilities, perfect for hosting events and conferences.
With its convenient location near public transportation, the AC Hotel Milan Sesto offers easy access to Milan's top attractions, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure passengers.
Day 10. Depart Italy
Your unforgettable escorted tour of Italy has come to a close. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers and enjoy a smooth transfer to the airport, bringing your amazing journey to a memorable conclusion.
Transfer from hotel to Milan Airport
Advertised Great Value Holiday prices are per person based on two people travelling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised Great Value Holidays are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, where available via the Great Value Holidays website and may not represent current prices.
Great Value Holidays are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date, and may be restricted to certain hotel room categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required to fully confirm reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only.
Promo Code Offer Details (where applicable): All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Promotional codes may be input online on the payment screen. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for any other products or services.
Go to our Booking Terms and Conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.
