Magic of Northern Italy: Lakes, Trains & Rivieras
Fully Escorted Tour
Discover the enchanting landscapes and historic culture of Northern Italy on a guided tour filled with exclusive tours and unique experiences. Arrive in Milan, then venture through Lake Maggiore (with a visit to Switzerland!), the Italian and French Rivieras, the Tuscan coast, and Venice before ending back in Milan. Take the scenic Centovalli Train Route along the way and enjoy visits to Lake Como, Nice and Monaco in France, Portofino, Bologna and Verona – all with transportation, delicious meals, and more included.
Escorted tours offer expert guides who provide deep local insights and worry-free planned itineraries. Enjoy the company of like-minded travelers, visit hidden gems not found on typical tours, and enjoy peace of mind with a travel support system. This is a fully escorted group tour with a maximum of 50 passengers, departures are guaranteed.
What's Included
- Roundtrip, economy-class airfare to Milan (MXP)
- 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-center 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 vacations that requires less daily walking.
Check out our 9-night Magic of Southern Italy tour or combine both for the 18-night Ultimate Adventure through all of Italy!
Great Ways to Explore
Cross off multiple bucket list Italian cities on one trip!
Go beyond Italy - enjoy day trips to both Switzerland and France!
Learn about Northern Italy's history and culture with included tours.
Stay in 4-star hotels in every destination.
Taste authentic Italian cuisine, sampling the regional differences in common dishes.
Unlock endless memories in Northern Italy on this 9-night escorted vacation! Arrive in Milan, then spend 3 nights adoring the beauty of the Lake District at a 4-star hotel. While there, enjoy a full-day tour to Lake Como with free time in Bellagio and take the scenic Centovalli train ride from Italy to Switzerland. On your way to a 2-night stay on the glistening Italian Riviera, visit the Langhe area and savor a Barolo wine tasting.
Say "bonjour" to the incredible French Riviera on your full-day excursion across the border to Nice and Monaco. On your way to the Tuscan coast, you'll stop in Rapallo and take a boat trip out to picture-perfect Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.
Stop for a visit in Bologna before reaching Venice where you'll explore the intricate canals and sip wine in Piazza San Marco. One last stop in Verona before finishing your Italian escapade back in Milan, where you'll soak in the final evening of this amazing adventure.
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.
- Roundtrip, economy-class airfare to Milan (MXP)
- 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-center 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 vacations that requires less daily walking.
Check out our 9-night Magic of Southern Italy tour or combine both for the 18-night Ultimate Adventure through all of Italy!
Cross off multiple bucket list Italian cities on one trip!
Go beyond Italy - enjoy day trips to both Switzerland and France!
Learn about Northern Italy's history and culture with included tours.
Stay in 4-star hotels in every destination.
Taste authentic Italian cuisine, sampling the regional differences in common dishes.
Unlock endless memories in Northern Italy on this 9-night escorted vacation! Arrive in Milan, then spend 3 nights adoring the beauty of the Lake District at a 4-star hotel. While there, enjoy a full-day tour to Lake Como with free time in Bellagio and take the scenic Centovalli train ride from Italy to Switzerland. On your way to a 2-night stay on the glistening Italian Riviera, visit the Langhe area and savor a Barolo wine tasting.
Say "bonjour" to the incredible French Riviera on your full-day excursion across the border to Nice and Monaco. On your way to the Tuscan coast, you'll stop in Rapallo and take a boat trip out to picture-perfect Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.
Stop for a visit in Bologna before reaching Venice where you'll explore the intricate canals and sip wine in Piazza San Marco. One last stop in Verona before finishing your Italian escapade back in Milan, where you'll soak in the final evening of this amazing adventure.
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:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Italy!
Upon arrival in Milan, you'll be transferred to your designated hotel in the Lake Maggiore area and get settled for an extraordinary vacation in Northern Italy. Later in the evening, meet with your tour guide for a briefing of the rest of your stay.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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
In the morning, a private coach will take you to stunning Lake Como. You'll have time to enjoy this beautiful lake before taking a ferry ride from Tremezzo to Bellagio. You'll have plenty of time to explore Bellagio, eat lunch, and go sightseeing.
Lake Como, also known as Lario, is the deepest lake in Europe. This lake dips just about 414 meters into the earth (resembling an inverted 'Y'), and offers an impressive mix of diverse landscapes and cultures. The beauty and unique charm of the area have enchanted visitors for centuries, leading to the construction of numerous beautiful villas, parks, and gardens along the lake.
Day 3. Lake Maggiore (with day tour to Switzerland!)
Today, you'll soak in the beautiful scenery on your way to Domodossola. From there, take a scenic train ride to Locarno, Switzerland. The Centovalli Train experience is a beautiful journey that showcases the stunning landscapes of the Italian and Swiss Alps. You'll have full access to the beautiful views from the panoramic carriage (included) so be sure to snap plenty of pictures along the way.
Day 4. Lake Maggiore - Italian Riviera
Your adventure continues with a stay on the Italian Riviera, but first, stop in the Langhe region where you'll visit a winery for a tour and a Barolo wine tasting.
The Langhe region, located in Piedmont, is renowned for its rolling hills, medieval castles, and world-famous wines, particularly Barolo and Barbaresco. The tour includes a visit to the vineyards, where you'll learn about grape cultivation and the unique terroir of the Langhe area.
This evening, enjoy an included dinner at your hotel.
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. Â
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.Â
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, cross the border into France and enjoy a full-day tour of Nice and Monaco. In Nice, you'll gaze out on the stunning blue waters of the Cote d'Azur, travel along the harbor, pass the luxury hotel "Negresco" and have a chance to visit the colorful flower market. On to glamourous Monaco, the city-state on the Mediterranean Sea. In addition to its exciting history, Monaco impresses with its casino, luxury yachts and a lovely old town with a palace and cathedral. This is definitely the place to "see and be seen".Â
Return to your hotel and enjoy another included dinner this evening.
Day 6. Italian Riviera - Versilia
Today you'll travel from the Italian Riviera to the coast of Tuscany. On the way, stop in Rapallo where you'll take a boat out to Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.
A scheduled boat takes you on a short crossing to Portofino, one of the most beautiful natural harbors in the Mediterranean. You'll be captivated by the idyllic scenery of the famous town where small, colorful fishing boats float alongside luxurious yachts and small cafes invite you to linger. Another quick boat ride brings you to Santa Margherita where you can stroll the elegant promenade and admire the endless views.Â
Later today, you'll arrive at your hotel near Versilia where you can relax and prepare for another day of sightseeing tomorrow. Dinner is included this evening.
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.Â
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 you'll travel up toward Venice, with a stop in Bologna along the way. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of Bologna, including a lunch featuring Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, a glass of wine, and water.
Bologna boasts one of the most beautiful and best-preserved old towns in Europe, with many medieval towers and around 40km of arcades (covered arched passageways) connecting its extensive city center. The tour will guide you through the old university town, famous for the "degli Asinelli" and "della Garisenda" towers, the Cathedral of San Petronio, and the Fountain of Neptune.
Later today, arrive in the Venice area.
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 you'll be transferred to the heart of Venice via train and boat. Explore the romantic city of canals with a guided tour. You will start at the Doge's Palace and head out to explore the most important sights between St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, including a stunning view of the Grand Canal.
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 is your last full day in Italy! On your way toward Milan, stop in Verona, where you'll take a 2-hour guided tour of the city. Second only to Venice, Verona is the next most important city of art in Veneto and the second Roman settlement in Italy.
A certified city guide will lead you through Piazza Brà , showcasing the magnificent Roman amphitheater, the elegant Via Mazzini shopping street, and the charming old town. You'll experience the rich history, art, and modern life in this world-famous city of love before continuing on to your final stop near Milan.
This evening, toast with your fellow travelers to celebrate the final night of your Italian adventure at your included dinner.Â
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 travelers 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 travelers.
Day 10. Depart Italy
Gather all your belongings and take your included transfer from your hotel to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) for your departure. Ciao Italy, until next time!Â
Transfer from hotel to Milan Airport
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.
Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of 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. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.
Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.
Promo Code Offer Details: 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. Offers are available for phone bookings via our reservation agents as well as online. This promo code can be input online on the payment screen. The call center is open Monday through Friday 9AM – 9PM ET, Saturdays 10AM – 6PM ET. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for airfare only, or any other products or services. If a flight reservation is changed or cancelled, the original fare basis rules apply (plus any increase in fare). Additional restrictions may apply.
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