Italy presents a great diversity of people; food and wines; iconic architecture; footprints of ancient and medieval civilisations and a huge variety of scenery ranging from almost desert to lofty mountains. There is no one thing or region that defines Italy but in the north, its lakes reflect the magnificent Alps, so high they appear to puncture the sky!
On this wonderfully varied tour we explore Lake Como, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, plus some stunning icons of northern Italy and Switzerland. Described by Wordsworth as ‘a treasure the earth keeps to itself’, visitors have been attracted to the lake for centuries in search of relaxation, culture and inspiration. Both Verdi and Rossini worked in lakeside villas here, together with countless poets. Its atmosphere is one of an eerie, near-silence, broken only by the rhythmic lapping of gentle waves on the lake shore whilst above, birds of prey soar on the numerous thermals generated by the gentle mountain breezes. The scenery is just awesome with the mirror-like, deep blue waters reflecting the surrounding hills and snow-capped peaks dotted with tall, typically Italian, ochre and magenta coloured buildings and opulent villas lining the lakeside itself. Majestic mountains rise almost vertically towards the deep blue sky with the lower slopes covered in lush vegetation, adding an invigorating aromatic backdrop to a most harmonious scene.
For a contrast we visit nearby Lake Maggiore too, almost Mediterranean in character and lined by verbena, palm and orange trees, and a string of 19th century picturesque towns creating a true ‘belle époque’ atmosphere. Then just to the north is of course Switzerland with the most dramatic alpine scenery on the planet, and at its heart, chic St Moritz. We explore this too, also taking a trip on the nearby iconic Bernina Express, one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys through the gorgeous Poschiavo Valley.
Next it’s Bergamo, a classic hilltop city so reminiscent of this part of Europe, it has one of the most charming hearts of any medieval city in northern Italy and dominates the Lombardian plain below. Surrounded by huge ramparts and within, its wealth of renaissance buildings and centuries old squares, lined by traditional cafes and restaurants selling fantastic Italian food, it’s a delight to explore. Art lovers will really appreciate the Galleria dell ’Accademia, a major art gallery with superb works by Titian, Raphael, Canaletto and many more. One of the most charming attributes of this lovely atmospheric city is that it really is an undiscovered gem, being almost totally devoid of tourists.
In designing this tour we really feel we have selected the very best of this wonderful area for you to savour at your leisure.
The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single and lake view rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
Stays at the Grand Hotel Menaggio will be on a bed & breakfast basis with the option to pre-book a hotel dining package.
We a offer dining choice at one of the hotels on this tour, so you can dine independently to sample the local cuisine or stay in and have dinner at your hotel.
Dining at the Grand Hotel Menaggio - from £48 per person
Stays at the Grand Hotel Menaggio include daily breakfast only, so you have the flexibility to enjoy the local cuisine at the town’s fine restaurants.
If you wish to dine in at the hotel, you may pre-book dinner for four nights at £48 per person, or dinner for seven nights at £84 per person.
Please contact us to add this dining choice to your booking.
Enjoy more space, time and flexibility with less than 25 people in your group.
All of UK & European tours currently on sale will be small group experiences with no more than 25 guests and social distancing in place.
Our full size coaches will never be more than half-full with plenty of space to spread out.
Enjoy your meals at hotels with social distancing in place, often with table service as standard.
Applies to new bookings only, made after 20 December 2020.
Fact File
Visa Information
UK Citizens do not require a visa to enter Italy or Switzerland however must have a valid passport. For the most up-to-date passport and visa information visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements and https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/switzerland/entry-requirements
We are unable to accept responsibility if you are unable to travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements.
Hotel Information
Mobility
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns. General information on mobility in connection with our tours can be found here.
Transfer Times
All transfer times listed here are approximate, and dependent on the number of hotel stops and traffic. If you have a question regarding transfer times please don't hesitate to contact us.
Airport | Hotel | Transfer time |
---|---|---|
Milan Malpensa Airport | Cadenabbia Hotel & Menaggio Hotel | 1 hr 30 mins |
Regina Hotel | 1 hr | |
Milan Linate Airport | Cadenabbia Hotel & Menaggio Hotel | 2 hrs |
Regina Hotel | 1 hr 30 mins | |
Milan Bergamo Airport | Cadenabbia Hotel & Menaggio Hotel | 2 hrs |
Regina Hotel | 1 hr 30 mins |