Milan Orta Stresa Como Bellagio Varenna Bergamo Brescia Sirmione Riva del Garda Verona

4 days - Tour from Milan to Orta Stresa Como Bellagio Varenna Bergamo Brescia Sirmione Riva del Garda Verona
DAY 1
Leaving at 8:30 am from NH Touring in Milan to Lake Orta, a charming little lake located on the north-eastern side of the Piedmont region. Orta San Giulio is a beautiful village and the chance for brief pause. Next, tour by boat to the island of San Giulio, facing the village and known as “the Pearl of the Lake”.
The island is almost entirely occupied by the Mater Ecclesiae monastery, famous for studies of ancient books. After a brief visit, you will take the ferry back to Orta and then take the bus to Stresa, on Lake Maggiore, one of the biggest Italian lakes. Nestling between the pre-alps, and of clear glacial origin, it is framed in its lower part by the gentle hills of the Novara region and - in the upper section - by high mountain peaks with permanent snow cover. These features produce an average temperature throughout the seasons that's milder in winter than the inland areas and cooled down in summer by the breezes that blow over the surface of the lake, changing its color. Many species of flowers and plants flourish here because of its mild climate, more typical of a sub-tropical climate. Stresa, an international tourist destination is your next stop. It is located in a central but also picturesque position with excellent views, by the side of the lake, facing the Borromean Islands. Free time for lunch. After lunch, boat tour of Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Island). The island was named after the main activity that has characterized this place over the centuries. Although few families still make their living purely from fishing, the identity of this small community still seems to be intact. Visitors are intrigued by its simple houses, narrow roads, the stone portals and the cobbled alleyways. “Isola Bella” (Beautiful Island) is the next stop. Here you can visit the Borromeo Palace with its amazing gardens. Return to Stresa (free time for lunch, not included). You will leave for Como after the visit. Overnight hotel stay.
DAY 2
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel before you set off on a brief tour of Como, a small town with amazing natural views of mountains, Lake Como, and wild alpine valleys. You will also see the industrialized area of Brianzola Hill, central Como, and the little village houses. The lake, which is also known as Lario, has long been famous for its Y-shape formed by three branches that intersect at Bellagio, which you will visit by boat. Bellagio separates the lake's two southern arms with the Alps dominating the northern horizon, and features some of the most delightful scenery in Italy. You can spend some time walking around this picturesque village with its little streets, luxurious hotels, villas, and gardens, and then stop for lunch in one of the many cafés (not included). You will then return to the boat and head for Varenna for the afternoon for a sightseeing tour before going on to Bergamo, a true historic and artistic gem characterized by its urban layout: the “lower town” (città bassa) is modern and dynamic, while the famous “upper town” (città alta) is home to the city’s mediaeval history. After a brief walking tour of the city center, you will leave for Brescia, where you will check in to your new hotel for the night.
DAY 3
Lake Garda is the biggest lake in Italy and your next destination. After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will take a sightseeing tour of the lake’s western shore, taking in the splendid natural scenery: brilliant colors, the Dolomites of Brenta and the gentle slopes of the Moraine Hills. You'll love the area’s lush vegetation, including lemon trees, oleanders, magnolias, and bougainvillea’s that flourishes thanks to the Mediterranean climate. Make sure you taste some of the locally-produced olive oil and wine while you're there. After that, you will move onto SimIone, where you will see Lake Garda.
Day 4
Fuel up on breakfast at your hotel before setting out to see the famous city of Verona, a work of art in itself. This fascinating crossroad of historical periods and cultures (both classical and Germanic) is a blend of both Nordic and Mediterranean influences that is both ancient and modern. A walk through its narrow streets will allow you to get in touch with Verona’s varied and fascinating past: traces of its splendid roman origins, its medieval structures, its magnificent renaissance palaces, as well as the impressive fortifications protecting it. The combination of art and history will fascinate you. Spend some time eating lunch (not included) before departing for Milan, where your tour will come to an end.
Highlights
• Visit the north Lakes region
• Prosecco Tasting
Notes
• All prices are per person
• City tax not included (must be paid directly at the hotel)