Have you ever dreamt of a place where sleek sophistication meets old-world grandeur? And the rhythm of stylish avenues blends seamlessly with the serenity of sun-dappled waters? Maybe an escapade to a destination where mornings begin with the hum of espresso and the gleam of marble façades. And afternoons drift into leisurely strolls past blooming gardens and glimmering lakeshores. Here, beauty feels effortless, woven into every ornate balcony, every quiet piazza kissed by the golden light of sunsets.
We would like to welcome you to a gem in Northern Italy, where culture and nature come together unforgettably! Our Milan & The Lakes Tour invites you to explore this vibrant city and its most scenic lakes. Join us on a journey through the best city life and countryside charm as we uncover Italy’s blend of refinement, romance, and natural beauty.
Arrive in style with a private transfer from the airport, settle into your hotel, and step out for your first glimpse of Milan. With no fixed agenda, the afternoon is yours to wander. Take a stroll through the elegant streets around the Quadrilatero d'Oro, where haute couture boutiques and polished cafés line the walkways. Pass beneath the shadows of historic palazzi, feel the energy of the locals, and catch your first glimpses of Milan’s cosmopolitan charm - a perfect introduction to this Italian city and countryside itinerary.
As the sun begins to dip, make your way to the Navigli district, where canals shimmer with the evening light and the scent of fresh aperitivi drifts through the air. Find a cozy table, order an Aperol spritz or a local wine, and toast to the beginning of your Milan and Lakes Tour. The mood is relaxed, the scenery enchanting!
Dive into the city’s heart with a guided walking tour that brings Milan’s most iconic treasures to life. Standing before the magnificent Duomo, marvel at this masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of the most striking landmarks in any Milan travel highlights list. Just steps away, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II awaits with its soaring glass dome and elegant mosaics, housing both historic cafés and world-renowned fashion houses.
As you wander through the lively Piazza della Scala and past the famed opera house, the layers of Milan’s history and innovation unfold around you. With each step, you experience the rhythm of this Italy cultural and nature tour, where grand design and everyday beauty coexist. Take your time having a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria before the afternoon is yours to explore.
This morning, your journey takes a scenic turn as you pick up your rental car and leave the city behind. Heading northwest, the landscape slowly transforms - modern skylines giving way to rolling hills, alpine silhouettes, and sleepy stone villages tucked between green ridges.
Your first destination is Lake Orta, one of the best-kept secrets in Northern Italy. Smaller and more intimate than its famous neighbors, Lago d’Orta is a tranquil gem, beloved for its romantic setting and unspoiled charm. Stroll through the medieval streets of Orta San Giulio, where flower-filled balconies overlook cobbled lanes, and artisan shops offer glimpses of local tradition.
As the afternoon light softens, continue your drive to Lake Maggiore, one of the most scenic lakes in Italy. Settle at your lakeside hotel with time to unwind and perhaps enjoy a lakeside dinner as the sun sets behind the mountains. This is the true start of your Lake Como and Lake Maggiore tour, where every view feels like a postcard brought to life.
Wake up to the serene beauty of Lago Maggiore, where mountains meet still waters in perfect harmony. On the shores of the lake, the town of Stresa has long been a retreat for writers, royalty, and travelers drawn to its serene beauty. Stroll along the flower-lined promenade, where grand Belle Époque hotels overlook the water and the snow-dusted Alps rise in the distance. The rhythm here is perfect for browsing local boutiques, lingering over coffee in a sun-drenched piazza, or simply breathing in the crisp, lake-scented air.
Discover the lake’s most iconic jewels - the Borromean Islands: Isola Madre, Isola Pescatori, and Isola Bella. Have a leisurely cruise across the shimmering surface of the lake, each stop unveiling a different side of this scenic paradise.
As your boat glides across the lake, take in sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills and villas. The blend of natural beauty, graceful architecture, and quiet sophistication makes it a highlight of any Italian lakes travel guide, revealing why Lake Maggiore remains one of the best lakes near Milan for those seeking elegance and tranquility.
Savor one final lakeside moment with a hands-on culinary experience - a risotto cooking class guided by a local chef! Using fresh, regional ingredients and traditional techniques, you will prepare one of Northern Italy’s signature dishes. It is a delicious immersion into the flavors of the region.
After lunch, the journey continues toward Lake Como, where the scenery grows even more dramatic - steep, forested hills plunge into deep blue waters, and each curve of the road reveals postcard-worthy views. As you arrive, take in the timeless charm of the lakeside towns, where grand villas with ivy-covered walls and classic hotels from a bygone era line the shore. This is another chapter of your Italy cultural and nature tour!
Today is dedicated to experiencing Lake Como in full, its timeless villages, winding roads, and the sense of elegance that floats in the air. Begin with Bellagio, often considered the crown jewel of the lake. Stroll its terraced lanes lined with silk shops and colorful façades, then pause for a lakeside espresso while the ferry boats come and go. Then, cross to Varenna, a quieter and more romantic village. Its narrow lanes, ivy-covered walls, and peaceful promenade along the “Lovers’ Walk” reveal a softer side of the lake.
In the afternoon, step away from the lakeshore and into the hills to visit a local wine cellar. Discover the beautifully expressive wines of the region during a relaxed tasting session, paired with delicious regional cold meats and cheeses. The rustic charm of the cellar, the aroma of oak barrels, and the surrounding vineyard views add to the richness of the experience. It’s another perfect pairing of nature and culture - an ideal way to deepen your connection with this elegant region of Northern Italy.
Your final morning by the lake is devoted to discovering more of Lake Como’s postcard-perfect villages. Begin in Menaggio, where colorful lakeside promenades and café-lined piazzas invite one last slow stroll. The views across the water to Bellagio are breathtaking, framed by steep green hills and the occasional sailboat gliding by. Stop in Tremezzo, known for the stately Villa Carlotta and its magnificent gardens - a final glimpse into the graceful lifestyle that has long defined the region.
And it is time to return to Milan! The journey may be nearing its end, but Italy’s perfect mix of nature and culture - is something that stays with you. On day 8, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your journey home. As you leave behind the shimmering lakes and graceful cityscapes, you carry with you the flavors, views, and moments that made this Milan and Lakes Tour truly unforgettable!
From the fashionable boulevards of Milan to the tranquil shores of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, this journey through Northern Italy offers a harmonious blend of culture, nature, and refined beauty. If the thought of sipping an Aperol spritz beside the water, wandering through centuries-old piazzas, and waking up to postcard views calls to you, we are here to make it real! Let us craft your personalized Italian getaway, designed for comfort, discovery, and unforgettable memories!