10-Night Italy's Lakes and Medieval Heart

Day 2

Accommodation

Elegant Art Nouveau Hotel - Lake Como, Lombardy Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

Private Como Lake Boat Tour

Discover the timeless elegance of Lake Como with this exclusive 4-hour private boat tour—a luxurious journey that’s entirely yours to shape. From the moment you step aboard, this experience is tailored to your desires. Choose your preferred boarding location and set the pace of your cruise, whether you envision a leisurely escape or a sightseeing-filled voyage. Along the way, your expert captain will be your personal guide, sharing insider tips and stories while curating a route that blends iconic landmarks with hidden treasures.

As you glide across the crystal waters of one of Italy’s most glamorous lakes, you’ll sip on chilled Italian Prosecco and enjoy fresh mineral water, included onboard. Take in the breathtaking views of postcard-perfect towns like Bellagio, Tremezzo, and Comacina Island, and step back in time at the stunning Villa Carlotta, known for its art and botanical gardens. You'll also cruise past some of Lake Como’s most famous villas, including Villa Oleandra—George Clooney’s famed residence—along with Villa Erba, the opulent Villa d’Este, cinematic Villa Pliniana, and the ancient Roman bridge of Nesso, gracefully arching over a dramatic gorge.

To elevate your experience, you may opt for a stop at one of the lake’s exquisite lakeside restaurants for a gourmet lunch or dinner, handpicked by your captain to suit your taste (note: food not included in tour price). Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply soaking in the splendor of the lake, this bespoke tour offers an unforgettable blend of elegance, freedom, and discovery.

Suggested Sightseeing

Bellagio, Lombardy Region

On the map: Bellagio is situated on a promontory near the center of Lake Como, about 19 miles (30 km) northeast of the town of Como, in the Lombardy region of Italy. 

Bellagio is considered the pearl of Lake Como, a top lakeside vacation destination, and one of the most romantic places to visit in Italy. Bellagio boasts panoramic lake views and a fairly mild climate. The charming lakeside promenade leads to Villa Melzi with its beautiful gardens. The village features picturesque stone lanes and stairways with little shops, gelato bars, cafes, and restaurants. Nearby is the Tower of the Arts, a venue for exhibitions and performances, and the Romanesque San Giacomo Church. Bellagio has been a favored summer resort since Roman times.  They planted olive and laurel trees, and later Italians grew camellias and rhododendrons around their villas.  You can launch into the lake, or stroll through town. 

Lake Como, Lombardy Region

On the Map: In Italian it’s Lago di Como, also called Lario, Latin Lacus Larius, a lake in Lombardy, northern Italy, 25 miles (40 km) north of Milan.

Lake Como has been a popular retreat for aristocrats and the wealthy since Roman times. Villas and palaces abound, including Villa Olmo, Villa Serbelloni, and Villa Carlotta. Well-known people have had homes on the shores of Lake Como since Roman times, and still do.  (At 1,300 feet deep, it is the deepest European lake outside Norway.  The blue waters are gorgeous.)  The lake is cupped in the shadow of snow-covered alps and lush, green hillsides.  The historic downtown, and what’s left of its 12th century walls, is charming. Como’s economic base has been silk for centuries—go shopping. Besides visiting the villas, go to the Basilica di San Fedele. Some of it dates from the 12th century, and there are dazzling windows and frescoes from the 16th and 17th centuries. A craft and antiques market fills its piazza on Saturdays.

Overnight Location

Bellagio, Lombardy Region

On the map: Bellagio is situated on a promontory near the center of Lake Como, about 19 miles (30 km) northeast of the town of Como, in the Lombardy region of Italy. 

Bellagio is considered the pearl of Lake Como, a top lakeside vacation destination, and one of the most romantic places to visit in Italy. Bellagio boasts panoramic lake views and a fairly mild climate. The charming lakeside promenade leads to Villa Melzi with its beautiful gardens. The village features picturesque stone lanes and stairways with little shops, gelato bars, cafes, and restaurants. Nearby is the Tower of the Arts, a venue for exhibitions and performances, and the Romanesque San Giacomo Church. Bellagio has been a favored summer resort since Roman times.  They planted olive and laurel trees, and later Italians grew camellias and rhododendrons around their villas.  You can launch into the lake, or stroll through town. 

Day 3

Accommodation

Lakefront Garden Hotel - Stresa, Piedmont Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm

Included Unique Activities

Village of San Guilio Private Tour & Transfer to Stresa

After being picked up from your hotel in Como or Bellagio, you'll be whisked off to the Village of San Giulio before being transferred to your hotel in Stresa. 

Spend about 3 hours strolling along the picturesque streets of San Giulio; a favorite place for romantic souls, the village is a maze of narrow cobbled lanes, flanked by old stone walls and doorways topped with triangular architraves. The little squares, reminiscent of the campielli of Venice, are enlivened by the presence of craft boutiques, antique shops and lively cafés. There is a splendid view of Lake Orta from the 15th century Church of Maria Assunta, a favorite for weddings, from where a flight of broad granite steps leads to Piazza Motta, the main square of the village. Walk down between two rows of 16th century houses and arrive in the historic Palazzo della Comunita square where two side streets lead off to Moccarolo and Villa.

The Moccarolo district in the southern part of the village has an elegant row of villas and townhouses, all with colorful flower-filled gardens overlooking the lake. The houses in the Villa area are period townhouses embellished with pretty little wrought iron balconies; see them to best advantage along the narrow, picturesque Via Olina.

The best views are from the Sacro Monte of Orta, a complex of chapels built between the 16th and 17th centuries, in the woodland setting of the Sacro Monte Special Nature Reserve. After you depart from San Giulio, your driver will drop you off at your hotel in Stresa.

Suggested Sightseeing

Lake Como, Lombardy Region

On the Map: In Italian it’s Lago di Como, also called Lario, Latin Lacus Larius, a lake in Lombardy, northern Italy, 25 miles (40 km) north of Milan.

Lake Como has been a popular retreat for aristocrats and the wealthy since Roman times. Villas and palaces abound, including Villa Olmo, Villa Serbelloni, and Villa Carlotta. Well-known people have had homes on the shores of Lake Como since Roman times, and still do.  (At 1,300 feet deep, it is the deepest European lake outside Norway.  The blue waters are gorgeous.)  The lake is cupped in the shadow of snow-covered alps and lush, green hillsides.  The historic downtown, and what’s left of its 12th century walls, is charming. Como’s economic base has been silk for centuries—go shopping. Besides visiting the villas, go to the Basilica di San Fedele. Some of it dates from the 12th century, and there are dazzling windows and frescoes from the 16th and 17th centuries. A craft and antiques market fills its piazza on Saturdays.

Lungolago di Stresa, Piedmont Region

For a delightful afternoon stroll alongside Lake Maggiore head for the Lungolago (lakefront) di Stresa. The mile-long lakefront promenade meanders through beautifully manicured gardens and past grand Liberty-style hotels, with views of Bella Island jutting up from the water. The journey northwest from the Stresa ferry dock takes you past cafes, fountains, and statues. A convenient turn-around point is the ferry dock at Carciano, which is also a base station for the Mottarone Mountain cable-car.

Overnight Location

Stresa, Piedmont Region

On the map: Stresa is a town of about 5,000 people on the shores of Lake Maggiore, just across from Verbania, in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, about 56 miles (90 km) northwest of Milan. It is on the road and rail routes to the Simplon Pass, a high mountain road between the Pennine Alps and the Lepontine Alps in Switzerland.

The name of this town first appeared in documents in 998 AD. By the 15th century it had become a fishing community, and eventually ended up under the control of the Borromeo Family. In 1948 Ernest Hemingway visited Stresa—he had set part of his novel, A Farewell to Arms, in the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees. Stresa has a front and center view of sunrise over Lake Maggiore. It also has the feel of a bygone era of decadence and elegance. In the center of town, the Piazza Cadorna is shady, and a nice place for coffee or a wine break. There are ancient cobblestone streets that weave through town—they’re perfect for exploring. Enjoy a cable car trip up Monte Mottarone. You’ll have amazing views over the lake, including those of the gorgeous, little islands. Take a ferry to the Borromean Islands and wander the lush gardens. Consider taking The Lago Maggiore Express, a one-day train trip to Domodossola, and switch to the Hundred Valleys train to Locarno, Switzerland. (You can take a ferry back to Stresa.) Stresa is an exceptional town.

Day 4

Accommodation

Lakefront Garden Hotel - Stresa, Piedmont Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm

Included Unique Activities

Borromean Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat

Island-hop at Lake Maggiore, and discover the tiny Borromean Islands with a hop-on hop-off ferry ticket. Use the
1-day pass to venture out from Stresa, and spend your day sightseeing as you wish. Step onto the shores of
Isola Bella, home to the Borromeo family ‘palazzo’; wander amid the houses of pocket-sized Isola dei Pescatori;
and admire the greenery of Isola Madre where botanical gardens beckon. Hop-on hop-off 1-day ferry ticket
around Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands. Travel in style on a comfortable, modern ferry. Soak up
beautiful views of the lake and dramatic slopes Move between the three islands as and when you please,
hopping on and off the ferry Explore botanical gardens and palatial residences on Isola Bella and Isola Madre
See the quaint old houses and traditional fishing boats of Isola dei Pescatori.

Suggested Sightseeing

Isola Bella, Stresa, Piedmont Region

On the map: Isola Bella is one of the 3 Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore, less than a quarter mile off Stresa, and can be reached in a few minutes from Verbania, Baveno, Stresa and Arona.

Literally meaning “beautiful island” Isola Bella is a treasure one cannot miss. Dominated by its sumptuous Baroque palace, along with a luxuriant Italian-style garden, laid out on ten terraces and reaching a height over 120 feet. Many parts of the palace are open to visitors: richly furnished rooms and opulent salons are embellished with priceless artworks.  

The garden is full of flowers and exotic plants of great rarity, which grow thanks to the particularly mild climate of the Borromean Gulf. Everything on the island has been designed to create a scenic effect, including the “Theatre” constructed at the end of the superimposed terraces, dominated by a statue of a Unicorn, the heraldic emblem of the Borromeos, which is flanked by statues representing Nature and Art. The huge, extraordinary garden is further decorated with ponds, fountains and a plethora of statues dating from the second half of the 17th century. The white peacocks that wander over the manicured lawns add their grace to this enchanting spot.

Overnight Location

Stresa, Piedmont Region

On the map: Stresa is a town of about 5,000 people on the shores of Lake Maggiore, just across from Verbania, in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, about 56 miles (90 km) northwest of Milan. It is on the road and rail routes to the Simplon Pass, a high mountain road between the Pennine Alps and the Lepontine Alps in Switzerland.

The name of this town first appeared in documents in 998 AD. By the 15th century it had become a fishing community, and eventually ended up under the control of the Borromeo Family. In 1948 Ernest Hemingway visited Stresa—he had set part of his novel, A Farewell to Arms, in the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees. Stresa has a front and center view of sunrise over Lake Maggiore. It also has the feel of a bygone era of decadence and elegance. In the center of town, the Piazza Cadorna is shady, and a nice place for coffee or a wine break. There are ancient cobblestone streets that weave through town—they’re perfect for exploring. Enjoy a cable car trip up Monte Mottarone. You’ll have amazing views over the lake, including those of the gorgeous, little islands. Take a ferry to the Borromean Islands and wander the lush gardens. Consider taking The Lago Maggiore Express, a one-day train trip to Domodossola, and switch to the Hundred Valleys train to Locarno, Switzerland. (You can take a ferry back to Stresa.) Stresa is an exceptional town.

Day 5

Accommodation

WorldHotel Casati 18 - Milan, Lombardy Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm noon

Included Unique Activities

Milano Aperitivo Street Food Tour

Step into the rhythm of Milanese life on this aperitivo & street food tour, where every stop is a celebration of local flavor and authenticity. Led by a passionate Food Expert, this two-hour journey takes you off the beaten path to hidden gems only locals know—no tourist traps, just the real Milan. From cozy bars to tucked-away trattorias, you’ll enjoy signature Italian cocktails crafted by expert mixologists, sip exquisite wines from nearby vineyards, and savor gourmet bites in a relaxed, social atmosphere that feels like an evening out with friends.

As you stroll through the vibrant streets, you’ll indulge in a full culinary experience that reflects Milan’s bold spirit and refined tastes. Taste perfectly aged Italian cheeses in a unique setting, nibble on artisanal cured meats and high-quality snacks, and discover the surprising elegance of gourmet stuffed potatoes. The evening ends on a sweet note with traditional pastries and rich Italian espresso served in one of Milan’s most historic cafés. Whether you're a food lover or simply curious, this tour offers a delicious, immersive snapshot of the city’s flavor and soul.

Suggested Sightseeing

Castello Sforzesco, Milan, Lombardy Region

The Sforzesco Castle, or the Castello Sforzesco is one of the best-known historical buildings in Milan, witness of several historical events in the past centuries. Built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, on the remnants of a 14th-century fortification, it was later renovated and enlarged, in the 16th and 17th centuries it was one of the largest citadels in Europe. Extensively rebuilt by Luca Beltrami in 1891–1905, it now houses several of the city's museums and art collections and has become a symbol of the city itself and of its history.

La Scala Opera House, Milan, Lombardy Region

Milan's most opulent spot is undoubtedly the velvet-draped theater known as La Scala (Teatro alla Scala). It is probably the most renowned opera house in the world, known as the premier place to perform or see an opera or ballet. It was commissioned by the Empress Maria Theresa of Austria during her cultural enrichment of Milan, which also instituted the Brera Gallery, botanical garden, national library and observatory in the city. The theater has four tiers of separate loggias, gallery seating on the floor, and an upper level known as the Loggione, where the "cheap seats" are located, famous for its enthusiasts through the centuries who either cheered or jeered boisterously.

Milan, Lombardy Region

On the Map: Milan, a metropolis in Italy's northern Lombardy region, is the second-most populous city in Italy after Rome.

Milan is a fast-paced global capital of fashion and design. Home to the national stock exchange, it's a financial hub also known for its high-end restaurants and shops. The Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral and the Santa Maria Delle Grazie convent, housing Leonardo da Vinci's mural "The Last Supper," testify to centuries of art and culture. 

Overnight Location

Milan, Lombardy Region

On the Map: Milan, a metropolis in Italy's northern Lombardy region, is the second-most populous city in Italy after Rome.

Milan is a fast-paced global capital of fashion and design. Home to the national stock exchange, it's a financial hub also known for its high-end restaurants and shops. The Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral and the Santa Maria Delle Grazie convent, housing Leonardo da Vinci's mural "The Last Supper," testify to centuries of art and culture. 

Day 6

Accommodation

WorldHotel Casati 18 - Milan, Lombardy Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm noon

Included Unique Activities

Small Group Milan City Tour with The Last Supper & Duomo

Everyone needs to visit Milan once in their lives, and what better place to experience this vibrant city than on a comprehensive Milan Walking Tour with Last Supper? We designed the perfect visit to one of the most exclusive paintings in the world – Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. You will visit the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie where you will get privileged access to view this painting in a group as small as 30 people, making it possible to get up close to one of the most prized works of Italian heritage. Your tour begins with a highlight and only gets better from there. Milan Walking Tour with Last Supper will also take you to the San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore which is known as the Sistine Chapel of Milan, an historic pastry shop, the financial district of the city, Milan Duomo and plenty more.

Suggested Sightseeing

Milan, Lombardy Region

On the Map: Milan, a metropolis in Italy's northern Lombardy region, is the second-most populous city in Italy after Rome.

Milan is a fast-paced global capital of fashion and design. Home to the national stock exchange, it's a financial hub also known for its high-end restaurants and shops. The Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral and the Santa Maria Delle Grazie convent, housing Leonardo da Vinci's mural "The Last Supper," testify to centuries of art and culture. 

Royal Palace, Milan, Lombardy Region

One of the most prestigious and history-rich buildings in the city, the Palazzo Reale di Milano (Royal Palace of Milan) in northern Italy's Lombardy region, is a must see for any art aficionado. It has been home to the city government since the 16th century. Its heyday arrived two centuries later under Austrian rule when it was refurbished in neo-classical style with contributions from architects and artists such as Pelagio Palagi and Francesco Hayez. Despite severe bombing during World War II, the Royal Palace has been hosting a flurry of art exhibitions since the 1950s. Between the end of 2016 and the beginning of 2017, exhibitions will be dedicated to influential Japanese artists such as Hokusai, Hiroshige and Utamaro; the Baroque of Rubens; and sculptures by Arnaldo Pomodoro are planned.

Day 7

Accommodation

Boutique Historic Hotel - Verona, Veneto Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm

Included Unique Activities

Verona Walking Tour

Explore Verona with a knowledgeable guide.  This is a city that showcases some of Italy's finest sights and history. Learn how Verona’s architecture and urban structure reflect the evolution of this fortified town. Verona, often overlooked for neighboring Venice, possesses its own impressive artistic heritage and vibrant cultural diversity. Located a short drive from Venice and Lake Garda, in the heart of the Valpolicella wine region, it is an ideal destination for visitors looking for cultural events, shopping, history, fine dining, and amazing wine. Verona has preserved a remarkable number of monuments from antiquity, the Middle Ages, and the Renaissance.  You'll see sites such as the medieval and Renaissance city walls, the Borsari and Lion gates, stunning piazzas, Romeo and Juliet’s houses, and Renaissance palaces.

Suggested Sightseeing

Juliet's Balcony, Verona, Veneto Region

Visitors flock from around the globe to Verona to see the famous site of star crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet. The balcony belongs to the aptly named La Casa di Giulietta, or House of Juliet, the former home of the Cappello family and the inspiration for the Capulets. Love-struck couples linger in the garden, pose for pictures on the balcony, or attach letters filled with sweet nothings to the walls. For good luck, many like to cop a feel off the bronze statue of Juliet, specifically her right breast, which has resulted in it developing a beautiful patina. Many people also leave their mark through graffiti and sticking chewing gum to the walls, some of the blobs being shaped into crude hearts.

Overnight Location

Verona, Veneto Region

On the Map: Verona is a city on the Adige River in the Veneto region in Italy. It is 64 miles (103 km) from Venice, 86 miles (140 km) from Milan, and 116 miles (188 km) from Florence.

Two of Shakespeare’s plays are set in Verona, including Romeo and Juliet. Verona is a well-loved city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Verona has a Roman amphitheater, the Arena, in the city’s largest plaza—it could seat 25,000 spectators in 44 tiers of marble seats. Verona’s gladiator games were a major attraction. San Zeno Maggiore, built in 1120 AD, houses the shrine of Verona’s patron saint—it’s the most ornate Romanesque church in northern Italy. Castelvecchio is an extraordinary castle built between 13355-1375 and houses one of the best art galleries in the area. One of the city’s most beautiful churches is San Lorenzo. Built in 1117, it is typical of a Veronese church. (The bell tower dates from the 15th century.) The Duomo is elegant, and inside you’ll see Titian’s Assumption. Food and wine are celebrated in Verona. This city is a perfect romantic getaway. For friends and families travelling together, there is plenty to explore and discover, in the town and the countryside.

Day 8

Accommodation

Boutique Historic Hotel - Verona, Veneto Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm

Included Unique Activities

Garda Island & Gardone Riviera: Private Tour

Step into a storybook landscape with our exclusive two-hour private tour of Lake Garda’s most enchanting gem: Garda Island. Renowned as the crown jewel of the lake, this magical island is wrapped in lush botanical gardens that burst with color and exotic flora. But its true heart lies in the majestic Venetian-style villa that graces the island’s shores—a noble residence still inhabited by the illustrious Borghese-Cavazza family, keeping centuries of history alive behind its elegant façade.

Your unforgettable experience begins with a comfortable round-trip transfer from Verona to the Sirmione Peninsula, where the adventure truly begins. From Sirmione, you’ll embark on a guided exploration along the shores of Garda Island, soaking in panoramic views, historical intrigue, and timeless beauty. Before returning to Sirmione, we’ll pause in Gardone Riviera, a charming lakeside village known for its refined architecture, serene promenades, and artistic ambiance—an exquisite finale to a tour that blends culture, nature, and elegance in perfect harmony.

Authentic Verona Family Dinner & Cooking Demo

In the heart of the Veneto wine region, we find Verona, known as the "City of Love,” and home to Romeo and Juliet. One of Verona's lesser-known secrets is its rich and varied gastronomy. Just like Romeo and Juliet, every local dish has its own love story.  For example, the Love Knot, known as the Tortellini of Valeggio, came from the legendary relationship between a soldier and a nymph, or “Pastissada de caval.” It is prepared using a recipe that dates back 1,500 years. 

When you dine at a host’s home in Verona, you will fall in love with the local dishes and their stories. Immerse yourself in a dining experience at a private home, enjoy an exclusive cooking demo, and taste authentic recipes treasured in family cookbooks and passed down by real Italian Mammas. Feel the warmth of Italian hospitality as you connect with local people. Enjoy an Aperitivo with sparkling wine and nibbles followed by a 4-course menu, including starter, pasta, main course with side dish, and dessert. Drinks are included—water, a selection of red and white wines from regional cellars, and coffee.

Suggested Sightseeing

Lake Garda, Veneto Region

On the Map: Garda is the largest lake in Italy, about halfway between Brescia and Verona, and between Venice and Milan, on the edge of the Dolomites. It is 85 miles (138 km) from Milan, and 113 miles (183 km) from Venice.

Garda has many small islands, and five main ones. The largest is Isola del Garda—in 1220 St. Francis of Assissi founded his monastery there. Take your time at Garda, and fall into the atmosphere and beauty of fine, relaxed living, Italian-style. You’ll want to explore Roman ruins and soak in thermal hot springs. If you love wine, tour some of the world’s finest wineries from here. (If you’re not a wine enthusiast, no problem. The countryside is irresistible.) From Garda, you can day-hop to Verona, and enjoy exceptional opera. There are three distinct regions at Garda: In the north, there’s Austrian food and an alpine feel. In the south, a Mediterranean ambiance of ease, olive trees, and farms. In the central part, you’re in the region of the plains and traditional Italian fare and folks. Dip into the hot springs that were enjoyed by the Romans, at Sirmione. The entire lake is a love song.

Overnight Location

Verona, Veneto Region

On the Map: Verona is a city on the Adige River in the Veneto region in Italy. It is 64 miles (103 km) from Venice, 86 miles (140 km) from Milan, and 116 miles (188 km) from Florence.

Two of Shakespeare’s plays are set in Verona, including Romeo and Juliet. Verona is a well-loved city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Verona has a Roman amphitheater, the Arena, in the city’s largest plaza—it could seat 25,000 spectators in 44 tiers of marble seats. Verona’s gladiator games were a major attraction. San Zeno Maggiore, built in 1120 AD, houses the shrine of Verona’s patron saint—it’s the most ornate Romanesque church in northern Italy. Castelvecchio is an extraordinary castle built between 13355-1375 and houses one of the best art galleries in the area. One of the city’s most beautiful churches is San Lorenzo. Built in 1117, it is typical of a Veronese church. (The bell tower dates from the 15th century.) The Duomo is elegant, and inside you’ll see Titian’s Assumption. Food and wine are celebrated in Verona. This city is a perfect romantic getaway. For friends and families travelling together, there is plenty to explore and discover, in the town and the countryside.

Day 9

Accommodation

4 Star Authentic Venetian Prestige - Venice, Veneto Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm

Included Unique Activities

Welcome to Venice: Gondola Ride, Walking Tour & St Mark's

This Venice Walking Tour takes you to the heart of the city in just three hours; giving you a broad overview of the history, culture and character of the Floating City. Led by a local guide, you’ll start your tour of Venice by the Rialto Bridge and learn how the structure was considered so daring in its engineering that critics at the time predicted it would fall (still standing, 420 years later!). Drop by the Rialto Fish Market to hear about the city's fishermen before veering off the beaten path into Cannaregio; one of the loveliest, most authentic areas of Venice. As you wind through Venice’s hidden alleyways, your local guide will regale you with tales of the city’s past and present. Curious about real estate prices? Or how they handle flooding? Now’s your chance to ask a real insider!  

While the atmosphere of Venice is best experienced on a walking tour of its streets and canals, there are some sights you just can’t miss. St. Mark’s Basilica is top of this list, as long general access lines usually attest. With pre-reserved tickets, you’ll get straight inside for a 30-minute tour with your guide. Learn how the relics of St. Mark arrived here by dubious means, admire its incredible gold mosaics and understand why the church’s east-meets-west architecture is a perfect representation of the city of Venice. 

The best is yet to come! At the conclusion of your tour, your local insider will leave you in the expert hands of a professional gondolier. Climb onboard a traditional Venice gondola (6 people or fewer to a boat) for a half-hour excursion through the city’s canals. Sit back and enjoy exploring the city as it was meant to be seen – from the water! 

Suggested Sightseeing

Saint Mark's Basilica, Venice, Veneto Region

Saint Mark's Basilica is the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Venice, northern Italy. It is the most famous of the city's churches and one of the best known examples of Italo-Byzantine architecture. It lies at the eastern end of the Piazza San Marco, adjacent and connected to the Doge's Palace. Originally it was the chapel of the Doge, and has been the city's cathedral only since 1807, when it became the seat of the Patriarch of Venice, archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Venice, formerly at San Pietro di Castello. For its opulent design, gold ground mosaics, and its status as a symbol of Venetian wealth and power, from the 11th century on the building has been known by the nickname Church of Gold.

Venice, Veneto Region

On the map: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and it’s the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 118 islands, separated by canals, and linked by more than 400 bridges. The islands are in a shallow lagoon, lying between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers. 55,000 people live in the historic island city of Venice. Venice is 325 miles north of Rome and 186 miles from Slovenia. It is situated by the Adriatic Sea.

Due to its geographic position, Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. By the late 13th century, Venice was the most prosperous city in Europe. At  its height, 36,000 Venetian sailors, operating 3,300 ships, dominated Mediterranean trade. Powerful families vied to create the most extravagant homes in Venice, many of which still stand in their glory.

Bridge of Sighs, Venice, Veneto Region

The Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri) is an enclosed bridge made of white limestone with windows with stone bars. The bridge passes over the Rio di Palazzo, and connects the New Prison to the interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace. Despite being considered one of the most romantic sites in Venice, the bridge was built in 1602 so that convicts could go straight from being sentenced in the palace courtrooms to their prison cell (or execution) across the bridge. Rather than connecting two roads on either side of the water, the bridge travels from one building to the other. 

Overnight Location

Venice, Veneto Region

On the map: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and it’s the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 118 islands, separated by canals, and linked by more than 400 bridges. The islands are in a shallow lagoon, lying between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers. 55,000 people live in the historic island city of Venice. Venice is 325 miles north of Rome and 186 miles from Slovenia. It is situated by the Adriatic Sea.

Due to its geographic position, Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. By the late 13th century, Venice was the most prosperous city in Europe. At  its height, 36,000 Venetian sailors, operating 3,300 ships, dominated Mediterranean trade. Powerful families vied to create the most extravagant homes in Venice, many of which still stand in their glory.

Day 10

Accommodation

4 Star Authentic Venetian Prestige - Venice, Veneto Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm

Included Unique Activities

Murano & Burano Small Group Boat Tour

No trip to Venice is complete without discovering the Venetian Lagoon's two most cherished islands. This half day trip to Murano from Venice offers transport by private boat and a dedicated guide throughout. Gain perspective on the ageless arts of glassblowing and lacemaking and the mastery of artisans, as well as delight in the unique charm of the tranquil canals and piazzas of these vibrant islets. 

Once you reach the meeting point in central Venice, you'll be whisked off to Murano to see its world-famous blown glass. Admire the 'City of Bridges' from the water with sweeping views and commentary from your guide as you get ready to witness the magic of Murano glass. All glassmaking was moved to this tiny group of islands in the Middle Ages, and it was the only place where mirrors were made for centuries. Techniques were so secret that perpetrators risked execution for leaking them. Times have changed, but you'll behold exactly what has made Murano glass so sought after for nearly 750 years.

Upon arrival, dock at a specially chosen glassblowing workshop to marvel as craftsmen shape molten glass into dazzling works of art. See these sparkling treasures come to life as you learn how colors and the most ambitious shapes come to be. After browsing in the gallery, explore Murano to enjoy its sleepy canals and San Donato church, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, without being hurried. 

The next stop on your Venice cruise is Burano. Considered by many as one of the most colorful places in the world, this small fishing community with its brightly colored houses also has some of the finest handmade lace anywhere. Watch this cultural tradition in action as women stitch by hand, like countless generations before them. After the demonstration, you will have free time to visit the lace museum, stroll Burano's vibrant waterways, or shop for souvenirs. 

Venetian Dining Experience

The stunning canals of "La Serenissima" are full of history, which is the root of its rich and fascinating culinary heritage. It's hard to find Venice's heirloom recipes in the local restaurants, but in home kitchens, you'll discover a treasure trove of secrets such as Zaetti biscuits, 'vulcano' risotto and 'saor' sauce. Immerse yourself in the regional traditions of everyday Italy. Your host will treat you to a three-course dining experience, showcasing their favourite traditional family recipes. If you are passionate to explore the authentic flavors of traditional Italian cuisine, and dine in elegant homes with local experts, this is the experience for you.

Suggested Sightseeing

Burano, Veneto Region

On the map: Burano is an island in the Venetian Lagoon, northern Italy; like Venice itself, it could more correctly be called an archipelago of four islands linked by bridges. It is situated near Torcello at the northern end of the Lagoon.

Burano is known for its lace work, brightly colored fishermen's houses, and its casual eateries serving seafood from the lagoon. The Museo del Merletto has exhibits on the development of lace-making in the area, and shops sell lace products like linens and clothes, as well as delicious  local butter cookies called "bussolai buranei." This quiet village with only about 2,000 full-time residents allows you to experience the magic of the canals and the picturesque buildings in a more tranquil atmosphere than bustling Venice. 

Overnight Location

Venice, Veneto Region

On the map: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and it’s the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 118 islands, separated by canals, and linked by more than 400 bridges. The islands are in a shallow lagoon, lying between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers. 55,000 people live in the historic island city of Venice. Venice is 325 miles north of Rome and 186 miles from Slovenia. It is situated by the Adriatic Sea.

Due to its geographic position, Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. By the late 13th century, Venice was the most prosperous city in Europe. At  its height, 36,000 Venetian sailors, operating 3,300 ships, dominated Mediterranean trade. Powerful families vied to create the most extravagant homes in Venice, many of which still stand in their glory.

Day 11

Depart From

Venice, Veneto Region

On the map: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and it’s the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 118 islands, separated by canals, and linked by more than 400 bridges. The islands are in a shallow lagoon, lying between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers. 55,000 people live in the historic island city of Venice. Venice is 325 miles north of Rome and 186 miles from Slovenia. It is situated by the Adriatic Sea.

Due to its geographic position, Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. By the late 13th century, Venice was the most prosperous city in Europe. At  its height, 36,000 Venetian sailors, operating 3,300 ships, dominated Mediterranean trade. Powerful families vied to create the most extravagant homes in Venice, many of which still stand in their glory.