The Italian Lakes & Swiss Alps
Partially Escorted Tour
Enjoy a partially escorted tour of Italy and Switzerland that combines free time in Milan with guided adventures through Northern Italy and the Swiss Alps. Discover Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Zermatt, Gruyères, and Lauterbrunnen, with an expert guide showing iconic sights and hidden gems. This perfect blend of excursions and personal time promises an unforgettable journey.
Partially escorted tours offer the perfect balance of freedom and guidance. Enjoy some time for independent exploration mixed with an expertly guided tour that provides deep local insights and fully planned itineraries.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Milan (MXP)
- 2 nights in Milan at the NH Hotel Milano Machiavelli, or similar
- 5-night small group escorted tour of the Italian Lakes & Swiss Alps, including:
- 2 nights in Locarno at the Hotel Locarno, or similar
- Boat trip across Lake Como
- 2 nights in Lausanne (Switzerland) at Hotel des Patients, or similar
- Round-trip train from Tasch to Zermatt
- 1 night in Interlaken (Switzerland) at Hotel Weisses Kreuz, or similar
- Transportation in luxury air-conditioned mini-coach, with local driver
- Stories & services of an English-speaking guide
- 1 night in Milan at the NH Hotel Milano Machiavelli, or similar
- Breakfast daily
Please Note:
*Entrance fees to some visitor attractions are not included, to allow you greater flexibility to choose the sites that you would like to enter. Please check with your guide, as in some cases discounted admission has been arranged on behalf of tour participants.
**During the guided part of your tour, each traveler is restricted to one piece of luggage (maximum 44 lbs) and one small bag for onboard personal items.
Great Ways to Explore
See Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’ in Milan.
Admire the stunning scenery as you boat across Lake Como.
Explore Varese, a ‘Garden City’ in Northern Italy.
Venture through the historic Simplon Pass in the Alps.
Try delicious Gruyère cheese in its home, Gruyères.
Discover the perfect blend of guided adventure and personal freedom on this partially escorted tour of Italy and Switzerland, beginning and ending with free time in Milan. From the stylish city streets, you’ll journey into the heart of Northern Italy’s lake district and the awe-inspiring Swiss Alps, all in a small, intimate group.
Marvel at the grandeur of the Alps, stretching over 750 miles across eight countries. As you explore the azure waters of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, surrounded by prestigious villas and charming villages, you'll be captivated by the beauty of Northern Italy’s lakeside splendor. From there, head into Switzerland, where the stunning peaks and valleys will take your breath away.
Experience the best of both worlds: the glamor of Zermatt with its iconic Matterhorn, Gruyères with its medieval castle, legendary cheese and chocolate, and the postcard-perfect village of Lauterbrunnen, cradled by waterfalls and forested peaks. Stroll along the lakeside promenades of Lausanne, known for its cobblestone town center, cool cafes, and eclectic bars.
With plenty of free time built in, you can explore at your own pace, with options for local activities or simply soaking in the sights. Your knowledgeable local guides will take you beyond the typical tourist spots, revealing hidden gems and scenic routes only a small group experience can offer.
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.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Milan (MXP)
- 2 nights in Milan at the NH Hotel Milano Machiavelli, or similar
- 5-night small group escorted tour of the Italian Lakes & Swiss Alps, including:
- 2 nights in Locarno at the Hotel Locarno, or similar
- Boat trip across Lake Como
- 2 nights in Lausanne (Switzerland) at Hotel des Patients, or similar
- Round-trip train from Tasch to Zermatt
- 1 night in Interlaken (Switzerland) at Hotel Weisses Kreuz, or similar
- Transportation in luxury air-conditioned mini-coach, with local driver
- Stories & services of an English-speaking guide
- 1 night in Milan at the NH Hotel Milano Machiavelli, or similar
- Breakfast daily
Please Note:
*Entrance fees to some visitor attractions are not included, to allow you greater flexibility to choose the sites that you would like to enter. Please check with your guide, as in some cases discounted admission has been arranged on behalf of tour participants.
**During the guided part of your tour, each traveler is restricted to one piece of luggage (maximum 44 lbs) and one small bag for onboard personal items.
See Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’ in Milan.
Admire the stunning scenery as you boat across Lake Como.
Explore Varese, a ‘Garden City’ in Northern Italy.
Venture through the historic Simplon Pass in the Alps.
Try delicious Gruyère cheese in its home, Gruyères.
Discover the perfect blend of guided adventure and personal freedom on this partially escorted tour of Italy and Switzerland, beginning and ending with free time in Milan. From the stylish city streets, you’ll journey into the heart of Northern Italy’s lake district and the awe-inspiring Swiss Alps, all in a small, intimate group.
Marvel at the grandeur of the Alps, stretching over 750 miles across eight countries. As you explore the azure waters of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, surrounded by prestigious villas and charming villages, you'll be captivated by the beauty of Northern Italy’s lakeside splendor. From there, head into Switzerland, where the stunning peaks and valleys will take your breath away.
Experience the best of both worlds: the glamor of Zermatt with its iconic Matterhorn, Gruyères with its medieval castle, legendary cheese and chocolate, and the postcard-perfect village of Lauterbrunnen, cradled by waterfalls and forested peaks. Stroll along the lakeside promenades of Lausanne, known for its cobblestone town center, cool cafes, and eclectic bars.
With plenty of free time built in, you can explore at your own pace, with options for local activities or simply soaking in the sights. Your knowledgeable local guides will take you beyond the typical tourist spots, revealing hidden gems and scenic routes only a small group experience can offer.
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, then make your way to your hotel and freshen up. Start with a visit to the iconic Duomo, Milan's stunning Gothic cathedral. Don’t miss the chance to head up to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city. Head to the trendy Brera district for dinner, dining at a delicious local restaurant.
Experience modern comfort and convenience at the NH Hotel Milano Machiavelli, located in the heart of Milan, just a short walk from Corso Buenos Aires and the Central Station. The hotel’s prime location makes it an excellent choice for business and leisure travelers, offering easy access to Milan’s top attractions including the Duomo and Sforza Castle.
Spacious, contemporary rooms come equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs, ensuring a relaxing stay.
Guests can start their day with a generous breakfast buffet featuring a variety of local and international dishes. The hotel also boasts a stylish bar and restaurant, offering Italian cuisine and a selection of fine wines.
For business travelers, the hotel offers modern meeting rooms with state-of-the-art equipment. Whether exploring Milan’s shopping streets or attending meetings, the NH Hotel Milano Machiavelli provides the perfect base for your stay.
Experience an elegant stay at Hotel Manin, ideally near the Museo del Cinema and the Indro Montanelli Public Gardens. This refined hotel features a rooftop terrace, a charming coffee shop/café, and a serene garden, providing guests with multiple spaces to unwind.
The on-site Manin Restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine throughout the day, including options for al fresco dining. Guests can enjoy complimentary in-room Wi-Fi and convenient services such as dry cleaning/laundry and access to a well-stocked bar.
Each of the 124 uniquely furnished rooms is designed for comfort, offering premium bedding, a pillow menu, and additional useful amenities like laptop-compatible safes and workspace. Patrons can also take advantage of memory foam beds, plush-down comforters, and complimentary cribs for the little ones. Refresh in luxurious bathrooms featuring designer toiletries and bidets. Stay entertained with LCD TVs offering a range of satellite channels. Plus, electric kettles, cozy heating, and daily housekeeping ensure a seamless and cozy stay.
Boasting a prime location in the heart of Milan, the 4-star NH Collection Milano Touring is an expansive, sleek hotel right near the beautiful Indro Montanelli public park. From here, guests are just a short 10-minute walk from Milano Centrale Train Station, with easy access to the city's main shopping district and historic center.
The hotel’s 275 spacious rooms offer a blend of classic and contemporary design, with many offering stunning views of the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica, and Milan’s iconic skyline. All rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
Guests can experience the hotel's most stunning feature: the innovative dining experience at Camelia’s Yard – Milano Social Bistrò, a stylish space that combines a cocktail bar and restaurant. Indulge in creative seasonal dishes and signature cocktails, while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, complete with a pool table. A breakfast buffet is available every morning with options for various dietary needs.
For fitness enthusiasts, a free gym is available, and the nearby park provides a perfect setting for a morning jog. The hotel also offers a modern lobby with co-working spaces and eight meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 100 people.
Awarded the ISO 14001 environmental certificate, NH Collection Milano Touring is committed to sustainability, is also proudly committed to a thoughtful and environmentally conscious experience.
Day 2. Milan
Discover the highlights of Milan today! Admire Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’ at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, have lunch in the canal-side Navigli district, and spend the afternoon browsing designer stores in Milan’s fashion district. Take a leisurely stroll through Parco Sempione and enjoy a delicious dinner.
Day 3. Milan - Locarno
You’ll travel from Milan to begin your guided tour at Lake Como, Italy’s most stunning lake, framed by the Rhaetian Alps. Enjoy a boat trip across the lake to Lenno, where you can explore the town’s 11th-century baptistry, Romanesque crypt, and breathtaking lakeside views.
Next, cross into Switzerland for a couple of hours in Lugano. Relax with a coffee in Piazza della Riforma, admire frescos at the Church of S. Maria degli Angioli, or stroll along Lake Lugano.
End your day in Locarno, where you’ll spend the night.
Check-in - Home Hotel Locarno
Nestled in the heart of Locarno, Home Hotel offers a contemporary yet cozy retreat, perfect for exploring the vibrant city and stunning Lake Maggiore.
Each room has modern décor, featuring plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs.Â
The hotel boasts a charming garden terrace, ideal for enjoying your morning buffet breakfast or a quiet evening drink. Guests can use the complimentary bike rentals to explore nearby attractions like Piazza Grande and the picturesque lakeside promenade.
Located just briefly from the city's key sights, Home Hotel offers easy access to Locarno’s bustling restaurants, shops, and cultural landmarks. Friendly, attentive staff are on hand to assist with recommendations and bookings, ensuring your stay is as smooth as possible.
Day 4. Locarno
Start your day with a delicious breakfast before heading out for more lakeside adventures. Your first stop is elegant Stresa, where you can opt for a boat trip to Isola Bella, an island on Lake Maggiore with stunning gardens and the grand Palazzo Borromeo.
In the afternoon, explore Varese, the ‘Garden City,’ with a guided stroll through the charming old town. Then, journey through the scenic Campo dei Fiori landscapes back to Locarno for your second night by Lake Maggiore.
Optional Activities (at an additional cost): Boat trip to Isola Bella and entry to Palazzo Borromeo.
Day 5. Locarno - Lausanne
Depart Locarno and journey deep into the Alps, with your first stop in the picturesque town of Santa Maria Maggiore. Enjoy a coffee and capture some photos before continuing along the winding roads to the historic Simplon Pass, once a vital route for Stone Age travelers, Romans, and medieval smugglers.
Next, marvel at the iconic Matterhorn. From Täsch, take a train to car-free Zermatt, a hub for mountaineers, where you can enjoy lunch and take in the views.
Later, head to Lausanne, overlooking Lake Geneva, where you'll stay for the next two nights.
Check-in - Hôtel des Patients
Beloved for its quiet and tranquil location in Lausanne, Hôtel des Patients offers modern comfort with stunning views of Lake Geneva.
Situated within the grounds of CHUV hospital and just steps from the M2 metro station, the hotel provides easy access to both the city center and the lakeside. As Switzerland’s first hotel of its kind, Hôtel des Patients combines contemporary accommodations with a unique concept that caters to patients and visitors alike.
With 108 well-appointed rooms, guests can unwind in a serene setting, enjoying amenities like flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms. Some rooms feature terraces or seating areas for added relaxation.
The on-site restaurant serves seasonal dishes, while the bar offers the perfect spot to enjoy a drink or snack after a day of exploring Lausanne. Guests are welcome to ask for recommendations on what to do around the area by talking with the 24/7 reception.
Day 6. Lausanne
Bring your appetite for the first stop of the day, Gruyères, the home of Gruyère cheese. Take time to explore this charming medieval town and its stunning views of the Saane Valley.
Next, travel through the Alps to glamorous Gstaad, a favorite of ski-loving celebrities - and keep an eye out for a famous face!
Near Montreux, you can opt to visit Chillon Castle, an enchanting lakeside fortress and Switzerland’s most visited castle. Return to Lausanne in time for dinner.
Optional Activities (at an additional cost): Chillon Castle
Day 7. Lausanne - Interlaken
Your day begins in the breathtaking valley of 72 waterfalls, an outdoor paradise.
Spend your time in Lauterbrunnen as you wish, with plenty of options, from scenic walks to mountain train rides. Ask your guide for recommendations to make the most of your visit.
After taking in Lauterbrunnen’s stunning mountain views and serene Swiss landscapes, head to the charming resort town of Interlaken, where you'll settle in for the night.
Check-in - Hotel Weisses Kreuz
Located in the heart of Interlaken, Hotel Weisses Kreuz is a charming boutique hotel offering a cozy and intimidate stay, with under 30 guestrooms.
Positioned just minutes from the Interlaken West Train Station and the famous Höhenweg and Jungfraustrasse pedestrian areas, the hotel places guests near unique shops, delightful restaurants, and iconic attractions like the Kappelbrücke. Whether you're exploring the nearby hiking trails of Harder Kulm or savoring Swiss culture, the hotel's prime location ensures easy access to both nature and city life.
Hotel Weisses Kreuz combines modern comfort with traditional Swiss hospitality. Guestrooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and safes, offering all the essentials for a relaxed stay.
On-site dining includes Italian cuisine at the Da Rafmi pizzeria and a rich breakfast spread each morning. For additional culinary options, guests can enjoy Swiss specialties at the sister hotel, a short two-minute walk away.
The common room provides a welcoming space with free internet access, a microwave, and TV, making it perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration or skiing in nearby Grindelwald during the winter season.
Day 8. Interlaken - Milan
Depart Interlaken and travel through the picturesque UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch, where cows graze in green fields and stunning views surround you. After soaking in the scenery, it’s time for lunch. Your guide will take you to a great spot, possibly the historic town of Altdorf where William Tell famously shot an apple off his son’s head, or another charming location.
Next, descend into Bellinzona, where you can explore the grand, UNESCO-listed castles that once guarded the route to northern Italy, or simply relax in town. You return to Milan in the evening.
Your tour ends at around 6:30pm, with the evening free to check into your Milan hotel for the night.
Optional (extra cost): Bellinzona Castles
Experience modern comfort and convenience at the NH Hotel Milano Machiavelli, located in the heart of Milan, just a short walk from Corso Buenos Aires and the Central Station. The hotel’s prime location makes it an excellent choice for business and leisure travelers, offering easy access to Milan’s top attractions including the Duomo and Sforza Castle.
Spacious, contemporary rooms come equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs, ensuring a relaxing stay.
Guests can start their day with a generous breakfast buffet featuring a variety of local and international dishes. The hotel also boasts a stylish bar and restaurant, offering Italian cuisine and a selection of fine wines.
For business travelers, the hotel offers modern meeting rooms with state-of-the-art equipment. Whether exploring Milan’s shopping streets or attending meetings, the NH Hotel Milano Machiavelli provides the perfect base for your stay.
Experience an elegant stay at Hotel Manin, ideally near the Museo del Cinema and the Indro Montanelli Public Gardens. This refined hotel features a rooftop terrace, a charming coffee shop/café, and a serene garden, providing guests with multiple spaces to unwind.
The on-site Manin Restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine throughout the day, including options for al fresco dining. Guests can enjoy complimentary in-room Wi-Fi and convenient services such as dry cleaning/laundry and access to a well-stocked bar.
Each of the 124 uniquely furnished rooms is designed for comfort, offering premium bedding, a pillow menu, and additional useful amenities like laptop-compatible safes and workspace. Patrons can also take advantage of memory foam beds, plush-down comforters, and complimentary cribs for the little ones. Refresh in luxurious bathrooms featuring designer toiletries and bidets. Stay entertained with LCD TVs offering a range of satellite channels. Plus, electric kettles, cozy heating, and daily housekeeping ensure a seamless and cozy stay.
Boasting a prime location in the heart of Milan, the 4-star NH Collection Milano Touring is an expansive, sleek hotel right near the beautiful Indro Montanelli public park. From here, guests are just a short 10-minute walk from Milano Centrale Train Station, with easy access to the city's main shopping district and historic center.
The hotel’s 275 spacious rooms offer a blend of classic and contemporary design, with many offering stunning views of the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica, and Milan’s iconic skyline. All rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
Guests can experience the hotel's most stunning feature: the innovative dining experience at Camelia’s Yard – Milano Social Bistrò, a stylish space that combines a cocktail bar and restaurant. Indulge in creative seasonal dishes and signature cocktails, while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, complete with a pool table. A breakfast buffet is available every morning with options for various dietary needs.
For fitness enthusiasts, a free gym is available, and the nearby park provides a perfect setting for a morning jog. The hotel also offers a modern lobby with co-working spaces and eight meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 100 people.
Awarded the ISO 14001 environmental certificate, NH Collection Milano Touring is committed to sustainability, is also proudly committed to a thoughtful and environmentally conscious experience.
Day 9. Depart Italy
Your amazing Italy and Switzerland tour has come to an end. It's time to head to the airport and board your flight home.