ESCORTED GETAWAY
Magic of Northern Italy: Lakes, Trains & Rivieras
From
Per Person
$2,801
*
9
Nights
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 into Milan (MXP)
- 9 nights’ accommodation in Italy, in the following hotels, or similar:
- 3 nights in the Lake Maggiore area at Hotel Pallanza
- 2 nights on the Italian Riviera (Sanremo) at Grand Hotel & Des Anglais
- 1 night in the Versilia area at Zen Hotel Versilia
- 2 nights in the Venice area (Mestre) at Ambasciatori Hotel Venice Mestre
- 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.
What's Included
- Roundtrip, economy-class airfare into Milan (MXP)
- 9 nights’ accommodation in Italy, in the following hotels, or similar:
- 3 nights in the Lake Maggiore area at Hotel Pallanza
- 2 nights on the Italian Riviera (Sanremo) at Grand Hotel & Des Anglais
- 1 night in the Versilia area at Zen Hotel Versilia
- 2 nights in the Venice area (Mestre) at Ambasciatori Hotel Venice Mestre
- 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.
Package Overview
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.
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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.
Transfer from Milan Airport to Lake Maggiore Hotel
Verbania,
Italy
1 of 3 hotels
Hotel Pallanza is a 4-star upscale hotel in the charming Pallanza region. The hotel prioritizes guest convenience with a 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff, and luggage storage. Guests are offered a variety of dining choices, including a daily breakfast buffet, a cafe, a bar, and a lakeside restaurant.
Guest rooms are air-conditioned and have a private bathroom. Other amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, a minibar, desk, TV, safe, and room service.
The Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto and Borromean Islands are both within a 20-minute drive from the hotel.
Lake Maggiore,
Italy
2 of 3 hotels
Hotel Rosa is an upscale, 4-star hotel in Baveno, right on the lake. The hotel features an on-site restaurant that serves authentic Italian cuisine and a cocktail bar. Guests have access to the hotel's spa with a sauna, Turkish bath, and rooftop terrace. In addition, a buffet breakfast is served daily.
Guest rooms are complete with free WiFi and comforts such as air conditioning. There is a private bathroom with bathrobes and slippers. Other amenities include a TV, a coffee maker, a safe, and a desk.
Lido Beach Club Baveno is a short 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Verbania,
Italy
3 of 3 hotels
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
Today, enjoy your full-day excursion to Lake Como with a ferry ride, including free time in Bellagio.
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.
Day 3. Lake Maggiore (with day tour to Switzerland!)
Get ready for your full-day excursion, which includes some time in 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
Today, enjoy your winery tour in Langhe. This evening, enjoy an included dinner at your hotel.
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, the unique terroir of the Langhe area, and visit a winery for a tour and Barolo wine tasting.
Sanremo,
Italy
1 of 2 hotels
Overlooking the shimmering Ligurian Sea, the 4-star Grand Hotel & Des Anglais Spa perfectly captures the elegance of Sanremo’s Belle Époque era.
Built in 1888, this historic hotel has preserved its original Liberty-style charm, with bright interiors, crystal chandeliers, and antique stuccos creating an atmosphere of refined relaxation. Just steps from the beach, the Casino, and the famous Imperatrice Boulevard, the hotel offers 100+ rooms some with sea-view balconies, private saunas, or even Jacuzzis on private terraces.
Guests can enjoy a rich buffet breakfast each morning and savor Ligurian-inspired cuisine at the restaurant, which offers à la carte and half-board options. The Somnia Aura Spa provides a serene wellness experience with saunas, treatments, and massages designed to rejuvenate body and mind.
Sanremo,
Italy
2 of 2 hotels
Nestled along the picturesque Promenade Imperatrice, the Grand Hotel Londra in Sanremo offers an unbeatable location just steps from sandy beaches and the vibrant city center. This historic hotel, dating back to 1861, blends old-world charm with modern elegance, making it a standout on the Italian.
Guests can unwind in the outdoor saltwater swimming pool or enjoy a stroll to the nearby Sanremo Casino and Ariston Theatre. The hotel’s proximity to the scenic cycle path connecting Sanremo to Cipressa makes it ideal for active travelers. With 130 elegantly decorated rooms, free WiFi, and an à la carte restaurant, comfort and convenience are always within reach. Nature lovers will appreciate the lush surroundings of palm trees and colorful flowers that frame the property. Whether visiting for romance, family fun, or business, the Grand Hotel Londra delivers a luxurious and memorable experience in one of Italy’s most enchanting coastal towns.
Day 5. Italian Riviera (with day tour to France!)
Today is your full-day tour of Nice and Monaco with a local guide. Return to your hotel and enjoy another included dinner this evening.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Check-in - Zen Hotel Versilia
Versilia,
Italy
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 you'll travel up toward Venice, with a stop in Bologna along the way. Later, arrive in the Venice area.
Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of Bologna, including a lunch featuring Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, a glass of wine, and water.
Venice,
Italy
1 of 2 hotels
Located in Mestre on the Venetian mainland, this contemporary hotel offers convenient access to Venice’s historic center—just minutes from Venice Mestre train station, with frequent buses stopping nearby. Guests can unwind in soundproofed rooms featuring air conditioning, a mini fridge, a kettle, and a private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
The hotel’s amenities include a well-equipped fitness center, flexible meeting spaces, and an elegant restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine crafted by a local executive chef. The welcoming lobby bar provides a relaxed setting for quick lunches, coffee, or evening drinks. Ideal for both business and leisure, this Hilton Tapestry Collection hotel blends modern comfort with Italian charm.
Mestre,
Italy
2 of 2 hotels
Hotel President Venezia is conveniently located near the Port of Venice. The hotel features an on-site coffee shop, hair salon, and cozy bar. There is also an on-site restaurant that serves meals including a buffet breakfast.
Guest rooms are spacious and soundproofed complete with free WiFi and air conditioning. Other amenities include a private bathroom, a TV, a desk, safe, and minibar. Limited hour room service is also available.
Venezia Mestre Station is a short 5-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 8. Venice
Today, enjoy your 2-hour tour of Venice with a local guide.
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.
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.
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.
This evening, toast with your fellow travelers to celebrate the final night of your Italian adventure at your included dinner.
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.
Check-in - AC Hotel Milan Sesto
Milan,
Italy
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!
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.
Cancellations/Changes: Rates are non-refundable. Substantial restrictions apply for cancellation/change, and depend upon the package type. Trip protection is recommended.
Call 1-800-896-4600 or go to https://www.greatvaluevacations.com/travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.
Sanremo, Italy
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