Sample Itinerary…

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The Italian Lakes & Verona

The timeless serenity of the Italian lakes has been explored since the days of the Romans when the emperors built grand villas, vast gardens and stone walls. Through the centuries, each period has left its mark. Today the picturesque and peaceful lakeside villages of Lake Orta and Lake Como can be enjoyed in a waterfront villa, complete with terraced lawns, colorful gardens, and endless lake views.

• Arrive at Milan Malpensa Airport. Meet your tour escort and driver and transfer to the lakeside jewel of Orta San Giulio. Relax at the sun filled Piazza Motta then weave your way through the village and stroll along the waterside promenade.

• Depart for Varallo on day two. A scenic drive steers you through a dramatic wooded landscape to the lively town of Varallo. Explore this town’s Piemontese flavors, and then ride the funicular to the area’s top attraction, Sacro Monte. Besides the incredible views offered near this sacred mountain, there is an opportunity to visit a few of the 50 chapels and their famous life-size terracotta figures, all arranged at Piazza del Tempio. Return to Orta San Giulio in the afternoon and board a private boat for a short cruise to the Island of San Giulio. Here, private villas are surrounded by the emerald lake. Spend your evening at leisure in one of the lovely trattorias in town.

• On day three, experience Lake Maggiore and the stunning Borromean Islands. Arrive at the lakeside resort of Stresa. Board a boat to take you to Isola Bella (beautiful island). In this lake’s most famed attraction, you’ll visit a lovely village crowned by the Borromean Palace and its wonderful gardens. The boat then deposits you on the Isola Madre (mother’s island). Stroll through the lavish botanical garden planted by the Borromei family and tour the 16th-century villa complete with a collection of 18th- and 19th-century puppet theaters, marionettes, portraits and furnishings. The third island of Isola dei Pescatori makes for a relaxing walk through the quaint and picturesque village. Return to Stresa for the afternoon. The evening will once again show you Orta San Giulio.

• Day four is transfer day to Tremezzo on Lake Como. En route, visit the exciting lakeside town of Como. As a medieval center for the production of silk, Como is known for its fine fashion boutiques and remarkable fabric shops. Stroll through the winding narrow streets, and then rest a bit with an apéritif, al fresco, in one of Como’s lovely piazzas. With a late afternoon arrival at your hotel, you can relax on the wonderful grounds complete with stunning views of the lake. Savor an evening at leisure in Tremezzo.

• Day five begins with a visit to the exceptional Villa Carlotta. Situated right on Lake Como is this elegant 18th-century villa, complete with exquisite gardens and lake views. Tour the gardens and enter the villa to see a collection of sculptures, including a copy of Canova’s Cupid and Psyche. From Tremezzo continue your cruise to Lenno for a visit to the stunning Villa Babianello. Built on a promontory offering extraordinary views of Lake Como from all directions, this 15th-century villa was originally built for the rest and relaxation of Cardinals and Catholic clergy. Wander through the beautiful gardens of magnolias, azaleas, and cypresses. Spend the evening in the nearby town of Menaggio.

• On day six board the lake ferry for beautiful Bellagio. Stroll through the charming village dotted with artisan shops and cafes. In the late morning you may visit the terraced gardens of Villa Serbelloni, then after lunch, venture to Villa Melzi and its wonderful lakeside park, offering spectacular panoramas of the lake and the nearby Alps. From Bellagio, board the ferry to Varenna. With its wonderful position nestled within the banks of Lake Como, Varenna’s charming center is highlighted by Villa Monastero, a 13th-century convent with vast gardens. Return to Tremezzo for an evening at leisure.

• As you transfer to Verona, visit the Renaissance town of Bergamo en route. High on a hill with wonderful views of the Lombardy plain sits this gem, with a long pedestrian walkway packed with shops displaying the works of artisans and featured local specialties. You will arrive in the late afternoon at your hotel in the center of Verona. Meet your escort for an evening stroll to explore its history.

• On day eight meet your local guide at the hotel and start your day exploring the wonders of Verona. Make your way through some of Italy’s most charming piazze, inhaling the scenery as it was in the days of Romeo & Juliet. Visit the Roman arena at Piazza Bra, absorb the dazzling display of vegetables at the open-air market of Piazza delle Erbe. Visit the house of Juliet, then end the tour at the Roman Bridge and Amphitheater. Free afternoon and evening in Verona.

• Positioned along the banks of Lake Garda is Sirmione, a picturesque, fairy-tale village. Stroll along the winding pedestrian-only streets to window shop in fashionable boutiques or eat at an outdoor cafe. Be sure to include the wonderful medieval castle, Rocca Scagliera, complete with moat and draw bridge. After lunch, pick up the strada del vino, heading northwest to the area of Valpolicella where remarkable beauty lies in the Lessini Hills. Your first visit will be to Enoteca della Valpolicella for an insight into the regions’ best wines. Tour some of the popular wineries and savor a tasting of select vintages, including the renowned Amarone della Valpolicella. Evening at leisure in Verona.

• On day ten transfer to Milan Malpensa Airport or extend your trip to include Venice.