Grand Tour of Northern Italy and Swiss Alps

Arrival in Milan – Welcome to Italy’s Style Capital

Touch down in Milan, meet your private driver, and glide into the city center to settle into your hotel. No scheduled tours today — the afternoon and evening are yours to recover from travel, people‑watch on elegant streets, or peek into the chic fashion boulevards of the Quadrilatero della Moda. This is your first taste of la dolce vita

Milan Highlights – Cathedral Marvels & Medieval Romance

After breakfast, meet your guide for a 3‑hour walking tour across Milan’s iconic sights. Stand before the soaring spires of the majestic Duomo di Milano, wander through the glass-vaulted grandeur of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, and feel history at the elegant La Scala Opera House. Drift through the leafy Brera district, then stroll to the historic Castello Sforzesco and let its walls whisper tales of Milan’s past. 

After the tour, you’ll have an opportunity to explore the city on your own — maybe relax in one of Milan’s stylish cafés, shop for a fashionable souvenir, or take in the views from one of the city’s chic rooftop bars. Whether you’re soaking up Milan’s cosmopolitan energy or stepping into hidden corners, the city invites you to keep discovering its charm.

Note: The unique treasure of Milan - Leonardo da Vinci’s legendary fresco “The Last Supper” located in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is not included in the city tour due to its limited availability. Please, ask your travel specialist about available tickets for your tour date.

Departure to Lake Garda – From the Coast to the Shores of Serenity

After a delicious breakfast and check-out, meet your private driver for a seamless transfer to the train station. As you say goodbye to Sorrento, let the excitement of Lake Garda and its stunning landscapes take over, setting the tone for the next leg of your Italian adventure.

Arrival in Sirmione – Your Lakeside Escape Begins

Welcome to Sirmione, a magical town nestled on the shores of Lake Garda. Upon arrival in Desenzano del Garda, your private driver will whisk you away to your charming hotel in Sirmione. After check-in, the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Whether you choose to take a peaceful lakeside stroll, explore the picturesque streets, or simply relax and take in the tranquil beauty of the area, Lake Garda’s serenity is the perfect backdrop for your next adventure.

Sirmione Sightseeing – Roman History, Lakeside Views & Thermal Wonders

Meet your private guide in the hotel lobby for a walking tour of Sirmione, often referred to as the “pearl” of Lake Garda, with a history that stretches back to Roman times.

The tour kicks off with a visit to the iconic Scaliger Castle — Sirmione’s symbol. Surrounded by water on all sides, the castle’s breathtaking views will leave you speechless. Then, explore the charming 15th-century churches: Sant'Anna della Rocca, Santa Maria Maggiore, and the 8th-century Church of St. Peter in Mavinas.

As you stroll along the shores of Lake Garda, stop by a scenic viewpoint — perfect for capturing incredible photos of the shimmering lake and the towering Monte Baldo in the distance.

The tour’s highlight is a visit to the Grottoes of Catullus, an archaeological park where you’ll discover the remains of a grand Roman villa that dates back to the 1st century B.C. and belonged to the poet Catullus. Learn about the fascinating history of this ancient estate while soaking in the picturesque lakeside surroundings.

You’ll also hear about the renowned local thermal spas, famous for their therapeutic and preventive properties, which you’ll have the chance to visit.

After the tour, return to your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Departure – From Lake Garda to the Swiss Alps

After a delicious breakfast, check out from your hotel and meet your private driver for a comfortable transfer as you head toward the stunning Swiss Alps.

Arrival in St. Moritz – A Mountain Escape

Upon arrival in St. Moritz, walk to your hotel and check in. The rest of the day is yours to immerse yourself in the breathtaking mountain views. Whether you choose to relax and enjoy the crisp Alpine air, stroll through the charming town, or simply admire the awe-inspiring landscapes, the beauty of St. Moritz is the perfect setting for a day of leisure.

Departure – From St. Moritz to the Heart of the Alps

After breakfast, check out from your hotel, then take a scenic walk to the train station and embark on your next leg of the journey, leaving the stunning St. Moritz behind as you head towards the Alps.

Arrival in Zermatt – A Village Surrounded by Majestic Peaks

Welcome to Zermatt, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Valais canton, surrounded by some of the world’s most iconic mountains, including the world-famous Matterhorn. After arriving at Zermatt, enjoy a short walk to your hotel for check-in.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure — take in the breathtaking Alpine views, wander the picturesque streets, or simply relax in the tranquil atmosphere of this stunning mountain retreat.

Day Trip to Gornergrat – Alpine Views & Iconic Peaks

After breakfast, take a scenic stroll to the railway station where you’ll board the iconic Gornergrat Bahn, a cogwheel train with large windows that offer stunning views of the Swiss Alps. This historic railway, the first in the world to be fully electrified, now uses a regenerative braking system that generates electricity as it descends — an eco-friendly touch to your unforgettable journey.

After about 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at Gornergrat, Europe’s highest open-air railway station, perched at an altitude of 3,090 meters (10,135 feet). From the Gornergrat observation platform, enjoy panoramic views that are simply jaw-dropping — you’ll gaze upon more than 20 peaks over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), including the iconic Matterhorn. This truly is one of the finest vistas in all of Switzerland — an experience you’ll never forget!

Note: Temperatures at Gornergrat are usually colder than in the cities, even in summer, so be sure to dress warmly and bring wind/rain protection. If it gets too chilly, you can always warm up inside the restaurant near the observation platform. The trains to and from Gornergrat are well-heated for your comfort.

After some free time to explore and enjoy the views, hop back on the train for a scenic ride back to Zermatt. The rest of the day is yours to relax and explore at your own pace.

Departure – From Zermatt to Stresa

After breakfast, check out from your hotel, take a short walk to the railway station, and depart from Zermatt, heading toward your next Italian adventure.

Arrival in Stresa & Islands Tour – Lakeside Beauty & Island Escapes

Upon arrival in Stresa, meet your driver, who will transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

In the afternoon, meet your private guide in the hotel lobby, and embark on a ferry ride to explore two of the Borromean Islands — Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori.

These islands are nothing short of magical. Isola Bella, with its grand 17th-century Palazzo Borromeo and beautifully manicured gardens, is a monument to Italian elegance. Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island) offers a charming, rustic atmosphere, perfect for a stroll through its narrow streets. Known for attracting literary giants like Ernest Hemingway and the English Royals, these islands are renowned for their stunning beauty.

Take in the breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore as you explore the sights on the islands. After the tour, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure, with the serene lakeside setting waiting for you to relax and unwind.

Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto – A Garden Paradise on Lake Maggiore

Meet your private driver for a short transfer to the Botanical Gardens of Villa Taranto, a lakeside garden created in the 1930s, boasting thousands of species of trees and flowers from all over the world.

Upon arrival, meet your private guide for a 2-hour walking tour of this lush paradise. From spring to autumn, there’s always something in bloom, with certain species showcasing their finest during special seasonal events. Don’t miss the Tulip Week in April or the breathtaking Dahlia displays from July to October — these flowers are truly spectacular at their peak!

After exploring the stunning grounds, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Stresa, where the rest of the day is yours to relax or continue discovering the beauty of the area at your own pace.

Departure from Stresa – From Lake Maggiore to Lake Como

After breakfast at your hotel, meet your private driver for a scenic transfer from Stresa to Como, ready to dive into another stunning lakeside adventure.

Arrival & Tour of Como – Art, History & Lake Views

Upon arrival in Como, meet your local guide in the hotel lobby and set off to explore this charming lakeside town, rich in history and artistic monuments.

Start with the medieval walls that encircle Como’s historic centre, then stroll through its narrow, ancient streets to discover beautiful Romanesque and Baroque churches. Visit Piazza Volta and Piazza Duomo, where you’ll admire the old Town Hall and its iconic bell tower, which have stood the test of time.

Next, enjoy a relaxing public boat tour around Lake Como, taking in the stunning lakeside views, followed by a funicular ride up to Brunate for panoramic vistas of the town below.

The highlight of your day is a visit to the magnificent Como Cathedral, which has stood for over 600 years. Nearby, marvel at the Palazzo Terragni, a striking example of modern rationalist architecture.

After the tour, return to your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of Como.

Departure – Until Next Time, Northern Italy & Switzerland

This is the final day of your unforgettable grand tour through Northern Italy and Switzerland! After breakfast, your private driver will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to the airport for your flight back home.

We wish you a safe and smooth flight and look forward to helping you plan your next incredible adventure!