Grand Tour of Lake Como, Milan & the Bernina Express

Tour Itinerary

• Day 1 • Arrival in Milan

  The adventure begins in the city of Milan.

• Day 2 • Milan

  Explore the fascinating mix of history and modernity on a guided tour of Milan.

• Day 3 • Free Day in Milan

  Today, you can explore Italy's second city as you wish. While Rome may be Italy’s political capital, Milan punches above its weight. Located in Italy’s industrious north with excellent links to neighbouring European countries like Switzerland and France, it is at the centre of Italy’s economic engine and its undisputed business centre, as well as its fashion capital, and it shows. Take a wander past the luxurious boutiques in the city's Quadrilatero della Moda - an upscale shopping district lined with designer boutiques and antique shops - or stop for a spot of people-watching (and a cup of rich, dark espresso the city is famous for) and you'll see just how stylish Milan is.

• Day 4 • Monza

  This morning, we'll travel to Monza, a hidden gem north of Milan. The town, nestled within Europe’s largest walled park, may be best known for its racetrack but it has a lot more to offer. The Gothic cathedral is a highlight, with the beautifully frescoed Teodolinda Chapel - housing a priceless Medieval iron crown - believed to have been made from one of the nails used on Christ's cross. Monza Park, commissioned in 1805 to exceed Versailles in size, includes several distinct areas: landscaped gardens and wild meadows surrounding the imposing Royal Villa in the south, a wooded area in the north, and the home of the Italian Grand Prix, the legendary Monza Circuit.

• Day 5 • Balbianello & Bellagio

  Take a boat ride across Lake Como to visit Villa del Balbianello and Bellagio.

• Day 6 • The Bernina Express

  Witness alpine scenery on the Bernina Express and visit the chic resort town of St Moritz.

• Day 7 • Free Day

  Today you’re free to explore Lake Como at leisure. Perhaps enjoy a boat trip to one of the picturesque villages dotted around the lake, or simply relax at the hotel and enjoy the stunning scenery.

• Day 8 • Lake Maggiore

  Visit Lake Maggiore and enjoy a boat trip and guided tour of the Baroque Palazzo on Isola Bella.

• Day 9 • Lugano

  Cross the border to a Swiss city with a distinctly Mediterranean feel on a visit to Lugano and enjoy a ride on the funicular for spectacular views.

• Day 10 • Villa Carlotta

  Discover a true Italian treasure with a visit to the 17th-century Villa Carlotta with its majestic views over the lake. From world-famous azaleas, heavenly camellias and exotic orchids, you can wander its magnificent gardens, enjoying the displays of colourful and fragrant plants from around the world. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the villa’s impressive interior and view its superb artwork, sculptures and antique furniture collected over three centuries.

• Day 11 • Return Home

  Transfer to the airport for your flight home.