Northern Italy Lakes, Milan and Venice Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Milan

Morning

Touch down in Milan, Italy’s vibrant fashion and design capital, and begin your journey in comfort. A private driver awaits to whisk you away to your centrally located boutique hotel. As you settle in, take a deep breath—you’ve officially arrived in Italy. Enjoy time to unpack, refresh, and savor your first quiet moments in this elegant metropolis.

Afternoon

Ease into the rhythm of Milan with a relaxed stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a glass-domed 19th-century arcade that blends architectural grandeur with modern-day glamour. As sunlight filters through the soaring ceiling, you'll admire the ornate mosaic floors and browse designer boutiques, pausing for espresso in one of Milan’s storied cafés.

Evening

Celebrate your first night in Milan with a welcome dinner at Ristorante Da Giacomo, renowned for its elegant atmosphere and exquisite Italian cuisine. Indulge in a sumptuous meal that perfectly captures the rich flavors of Milan, setting the tone for an unforgettable stay.

Day 2: Exploring Milan

Morning:

Begin your day with a rich Italian breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for a deep dive into Milan’s grandeur. Your private guide will lead you through the magnificent Milan Cathedral, a Gothic marvel adorned with intricate spires and statues. Climb to the rooftop terrace where panoramic views stretch across the cityscape to the distant Alps. From there, step back in time as you explore the formidable Sforza Castle, once home to Milan’s ruling families, now housing priceless art and centuries of history.

Afternoon:

Savor a true Milanese treat with lunch at Luini, famous for its golden, flaky panzerotti that locals line up for daily. Afterward, step inside an exclusive fashion atelier where skilled artisans bring couture creations to life. You'll witness firsthand the craftsmanship and inspiration behind Milan’s global style reputation. The day crescendos with a private viewing of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, one of the world’s most revered masterpieces, housed quietly inside the Santa Maria delle Grazie—an awe-inspiring moment that lingers long after.

Evening:

As golden hour bathes the city, enjoy a relaxed stroll through the Brera district, Milan’s artistic soul, with cobbled lanes, boutique galleries, and a bohemian spirit in the air. Cap off the evening with dinner at Trattoria Milanese, where candlelight and classic regional dishes create a warm, unforgettable dining experience. From the first bite to the final toast, tonight captures the elegance and authenticity of Milanese life.

Day 3: Milan to Lake Como

Morning

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before setting off on a picturesque drive toward one of Italy’s most celebrated treasures—Lake Como. As your private car winds through the northern countryside, watch the skyline give way to soaring mountains and shimmering waters. In just over an hour, you’ll arrive at your refined lakeside retreat, nestled among grand villas and cypress trees.

Afternoon

Your guide welcomes you to the town of Como, a place where history, elegance, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Visit the awe-inspiring Como Cathedral with its intricate façade and Gothic spires, then wander the cobbled streets of the old town, where artisan boutiques and flower-laced balconies paint a postcard-perfect scene. For lunch, dine at the beloved Ristorante Sociale, where traditional recipes and local ingredients come together in rustic, refined harmony.

Evening

As twilight descends, set off on a private boat ride across the glassy waters of Lake Como. Glide past lakeside villages and grand villas with ivy-draped terraces, feeling the calm magic of the lake as the sun dips behind the mountains. Your day concludes with dinner at La Terrazza—an elegant culinary experience perched above the water, where gourmet Italian dishes are served with unforgettable views and warm, attentive hospitality.

Day 4: Exploring Lake Como

Morning

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast before stepping aboard a private Italian-style boat, gliding across Lake Como’s tranquil waters. Your first stop is Villa Carlotta, where terraced gardens overflow with blooming camellias and citrus trees, and masterpieces of 19th-century art await inside. Next, continue on to the iconic Villa del Balbianello—perched on a wooded peninsula and famous for its cinematic beauty—where you’ll wander through manicured grounds and marvel at panoramic lake views that seem to stretch forever.

Afternoon

Disembark in the lakeside village of Tremezzo and enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ristorante La Darsena, where elegant seafood dishes are served just steps from the water’s edge. Then, head to Bellagio, the celebrated “Pearl of Lake Como.” Wander through its narrow stone alleys and boutique-lined lanes, pausing for espresso or gelato in sun-drenched piazzas. With pastel-colored villas cascading down to the lake, Bellagio is the picture of Italian charm.

Evening

Return to your hotel to unwind, then prepare for a special dinner high above the lake. Dine at Al Veluu, a hidden gem beloved for its panoramic views, refined cuisine, and romantic ambiance. As twilight settles over the lake, savor expertly prepared local specialties and raise a glass to the unforgettable moments Lake Como has already delivered.

Day 5: Lake Como to Lake Maggiore

Morning

Savor a final breakfast overlooking the calm waters of Lake Como before checking out of your hotel. Your private driver awaits to escort you on a scenic 1.5-hour journey to the elegant shores of Lake Maggiore, a place where Alpine beauty meets timeless Italian charm. As you arrive, the lake unfolds in shimmering hues, backed by mountains and dotted with storybook islands.

Afternoon

Board a private boat to explore the legendary Borromean Islands, a trio of jewels floating on the water. Wander through the baroque palaces and opulent gardens of Isola Bella, once home to the noble Borromeo family. Discover the lush botanical paradise of Isola Madre, where rare plants and exotic birds thrive. Then, pause for a lakeside lunch at Ristorante Casabella on Isola dei Pescatori—a quaint fishing village—where you’ll savor the catch of the day, served fresh with views of boats bobbing on the glistening lake.

Evening

Return to the mainland and settle into the lakeside town of Stresa, known for its Belle Époque elegance. As the sun dips behind the mountains, take a relaxed stroll along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the peaceful energy of the lake at dusk. Your evening concludes with a refined dining experience at Il Borromeo, where regional ingredients are transformed into culinary artistry, and every bite tells a story of northern Italy.

Day 6: Depart to Venice

Morning

Wake up to the gentle lapping of Lake Maggiore and take in the serene mountain views one last time as you enjoy your final breakfast in Stresa. With the crisp Alpine air and peaceful stillness of the lake as your backdrop, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the journey so far—and anticipate the wonders ahead.

Afternoon

Your private driver whisks you away on a comfortable 3.5-hour journey across northern Italy, through rolling hills and vibrant countryside. As you draw nearer to Venice, the landscape transforms—roads give way to canals, and the rhythm of the journey begins to shift, preparing you for the poetic cadence of a city built on water.

Evening

Arrive in Venice and step into a dreamscape of winding alleyways and golden light. Stroll through the storied St. Mark’s Square as the bell towers chime above. Admire the grand architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica and the elegant arcades surrounding the piazza. Pause at Caffè Florian, one of the oldest and most iconic cafés in the world, for a coffee as dusk settles over the lagoon. The romance of Venice welcomes you.

Day 7: Exploring Venice

Morning

Awaken in the heart of Venice, where the light dances on the canals and history echoes through every stone. Begin the day with a guided exploration of St. Mark’s Basilica, marveling at its golden mosaics and Byzantine splendor. Walk in the footsteps of doges at the Doge’s Palace, uncovering stories of power and intrigue as you cross the hauntingly beautiful Bridge of Sighs—the very path prisoners once took from courtroom to cell.

Afternoon

Enjoy an elegant lunch at Trattoria da Fiore, a beloved Venetian restaurant known for seasonal ingredients and local traditions. Afterward, immerse yourself in the colors and rhythms of daily life as you wander through the bustling Rialto Market. Browse stalls brimming with vibrant produce and glistening seafood, then cross the iconic Rialto Bridge for sweeping views of the Grand Canal, where gondolas and vaporettos weave through the city’s liquid streets.

Evening

As the sun sets, step aboard a traditional gondola for a private ride through Venice’s enchanting canals. Float past graceful bridges and palazzos bathed in golden light, taking in the city’s quiet magic. For dinner, savor a luxurious meal at Ristorante Quadri in St. Mark’s Square, where Venetian fine dining meets centuries-old charm. Indulge in risotto al nero di seppia and other local delicacies as music drifts across the piazza, bringing the day to a perfect close.

Day 8:Murano, Burano, and Torcello

Morning & Afternoon

Embark on a full-day private boat excursion across the Venetian Lagoon, discovering the timeless beauty of Murano, Burano, and Torcello—three islands steeped in history, artistry, and charm. Your journey begins in Murano, world-renowned for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking. Step inside a working glass factory, where master artisans shape molten glass into dazzling works of art using ancient techniques passed down through generations. Watch as chandeliers, vases, and delicate figurines come to life before your eyes, and explore a curated showroom where you can find the perfect keepsake to bring home. Next, glide across the water to Burano, a storybook village famed for its lace-making heritage and candy-colored houses that line the canals like a painter’s palette. Wander the narrow streets and absorb the vibrant ambiance, pausing to admire intricate lacework crafted by local women—each piece a delicate tribute to centuries of craftsmanship. If time allows, visit the peaceful island of Torcello, where Venice itself was born. Walk among ancient ruins and quiet paths that whisper the origins of a once-great empire, and visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its exquisite Byzantine mosaics. As the boat returns to Venice in the late afternoon, relax and take in the golden light dancing across the lagoon.

Evening

Tonight, dine at the refined Ristorante Al Covo, a cherished Venetian gem tucked away in a quiet corner of the Castello district. Known for its devotion to seasonal ingredients and sustainable seafood, Al Covo serves dishes that celebrate Venice’s maritime heritage with elegance and soul. Settle into its intimate atmosphere and toast to a day of unforgettable island adventures.

Day 9: Free Day in Venice

All Day

Today is yours to explore Venice exactly as you wish—without schedules or guides, just the freedom to follow your curiosity and soak in the magic of La Serenissima. Wander down quiet alleyways and across hidden bridges, discovering secret courtyards and artisan workshops tucked away from the crowds. Step inside the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, a serene palazzo on the Grand Canal that houses one of Europe’s finest collections of 20th-century art—from Picasso to Pollock, Kandinsky to Dalí. If you’re seeking a more local rhythm, make your way to the Cannaregio district—one of Venice’s last truly Venetian neighborhoods. Sip espresso alongside residents in small piazzas, watch gondolas slip by narrow canals, and perhaps stop into a bacaro for cicchetti, Venice’s traditional tapas. Whether you fill your day with art, shopping, culinary delights, or quiet reflection along the water, this is your opportunity to make Venice your own—an experience that feels intimate, personal, and deeply unforgettable.

Day 10: Departure

Morning

Savor your final breakfast in Venice as the soft morning light glimmers off the canals, a quiet moment to reflect on the unforgettable journey you’ve just experienced. From the lakeside elegance of Northern Italy to the timeless charm of Venice, your days have been filled with beauty, culture, and discovery. After check-out, your private transfer will take you to Venice Marco Polo Airport. As you depart, you’ll carry with you more than just souvenirs—you’ll take home memories of handpicked moments, breathtaking places, and the kind of authentic Italian experiences that stay with you forever.